The Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory, one of NASA’s advanced space telescopes, faces a critical situation, as its mission to save and extend its operational life has commenced. Currently on a path to return to Earth in a few months, a successful rescue could allow it to continue its astronomical observations for many more years.
Like all satellites, Swift is experiencing orbital decay, having been launched in 2004. Originally at an altitude of around 600 kilometers, it now hovers at just 375 kilometers above the Earth’s surface. Recent solar flares intensified atmospheric drag, causing this unexpected decline in altitude.
NASA sought innovative solutions to keep the Swift operational, ultimately selecting a plan proposed by Catalyst Space Technologies, a small startup in Arizona, aimed at enhancing the observatory’s orbit.
This ambitious rescue mission involves a satellite named Link, equipped with three robotic arms designed to securely grasp Swift and elevate it back to safety. Though Link measures less than two meters tall and is about one-third the size of Swift, its large solar panels are well-equipped to power the necessary thrusters and grappling arm.
Launched on July 3 atop a Northrop Grumman Pegasus XL rocket, Link represents the final mission for this rocket before its retirement. Over the next two months, it will secure Swift and gradually elevate it for several weeks of testing in space before releasing it at its original altitude. If successful, this operation could extend Swift’s operational lifespan by up to 10 years.
Initially designed to study gamma-ray bursts—the most powerful explosions in the universe—Swift has detected approximately 1,800 of these events and made significant discoveries concerning other celestial phenomena, including comets, planets, supernovae, and black holes.
While the orbital boost will allow for continued observations, it will also serve as a pivotal demonstration of how to potentially salvage space telescopes. “Swift was never intended for servicing,” stated Ghonhee Lee, CEO of Katalyst. According to a statement, “By showing that rapid and economical life extension is possible, we are establishing a prototype for servicing spacecraft not designed for in-orbit maintenance.” This approach could present a cost-effective method for prolonging the lifespan of other satellites, including the Hubble Space Telescope, which is projected to cease operations in the 2030s unless proactive measures are taken.
Stars in the Constellation Lupus Captured by the Vera C. Rubin Observatory
Credit: NSF–DOE Vera C. Rubin Observatory/NOIRLab/SLAC/AURA
Chile’s Vera C. Rubin Observatory has officially commenced a groundbreaking exploration of the universe. After a year of extensive testing and calibration, the space-time legacy survey is beginning—marking the start of the most detailed photographic record of the universe ever.
“Today, we embark on the greatest space movie ever made,” stated Brian Stone of the National Science Foundation in a press release.
Over the next decade, the Rubin Observatory will collect approximately 10 terabytes of data each night, capturing hundreds of high-resolution images of the southern sky. Each image will cover an area about 40 times larger than the full moon, enabling the survey to encompass nearly the entire sky visible from the southern hemisphere.
This vast array of data serves multiple purposes. The first initiative is already underway, notifying researchers of dynamic changes in the night sky, including the emergence of supernovae or the movement of asteroids and comets.
“In just a few months, we recorded millions of alerts, with Rubin operating as a robust detection machine,” noted Phil Marshall, a member of the Rubin team at Stanford University in California. “We’re currently organizing all the findings.”
These alerts have already led to the identification of over 11,000 new asteroids and are poised to create the most comprehensive catalog of Solar System objects ever compiled.
In addition to its solar system research, Rubin will provide insights into more distant celestial objects, create intricate maps of the Milky Way galaxy, and delve deeper into the cosmos.
The first image displayed above reveals a stunning ocean of stars, interstellar gas, and even distant galaxies. These highly detailed images, captured repeatedly over a decade, will allow researchers to investigate rare cosmic events, as well as gain insight into dark matter, dark energy, and the overall expansion of the universe.
(Illustration by Jill Enders; Translated by Jamie Bulloch), Published by Hachette (UK), HarperCollins (USA)
In today’s fast-paced world filled with work, family, politics, and captivating TV dramas, we often overlook the remarkable stories unfolding within our own bodies.
Our organs work tirelessly to provide essential oxygen, energy, and resilience, enabling us to embrace life’s joys while conquering its challenges.
In her insightful book, Julia Enders emphasizes that understanding our body’s complex systems, shaped over millennia, can inspire healthier, more meaningful lives. Organ Speak examines the question: what does it truly mean to listen to our bodies?
Enders, a physician specializing in gastrointestinal health, is renowned for her best-sellers like Gut, which humorously explores the intricacies of our intestines and discusses everything from flatulence to optimal bathroom posture.
In her new book, Enders celebrates the marvels of five vital systems: lungs, immune system, skin, muscles, and brain. With humor and clarity, she articulates complex biology, urging readers to pay closer attention to their bodily functions.
Each chapter explores the significance of various organs backed by recent scientific studies and personal narratives. For instance, she draws parallels between her late grandmother’s friend and the immune system’s protective role during life’s unpredictabilities.
“Our organs significantly shape our identities, influencing our responses to threats and our interactions with others,” Enders asserts. “Understanding your body can foster a more harmonious existence.”
Starting with the lungs, Enders describes their remarkable ability to inflate and deflate approximately 20,000 times daily. Consequently, pollution and other harmful elements challenge our respiratory health.
She highlights unusual breathing patterns, like “email apnea,” which causes many to hold their breath while checking emails, potentially leading to neck tension and fatigue. Practical solutions, including controlled breath-holding exercises, are also provided.
Transitioning to the immune system, Enders elaborates on its mechanisms against pathogens, humorously labeling a runny nose as “nasal diarrhea,” emphasizing its role in eliminating germs.
Moreover, she discusses allergies and autoimmune disorders resulting from immune misfires and offers advice on keeping immune cells healthy through proper sleep, nutrition, physical activity, and vaccinations.
Regarding skin health, Enders goes beyond surface-level concerns, explaining the physiological reasons behind aging and the positive impacts of touch, especially for premature babies.
To combat skin aging, she recommends using a vitamin C moisturizer at night and a vitamin A lotion with sunscreen during the day to neutralize free radicals.
When exploring muscle functions, Enders provides intriguing insights into muscle deterioration during inactivity, such as how prolonged bed rest can result in significant muscle loss.
Evidence supporting regular exercise is also presented, highlighting benefits like improved mood, heart health, and even neural development.
Lastly, she delves into brain function, discussing sleep deprivation effects, addiction, and suggesting strategies for better napping.
While Organ Speak may not introduce groundbreaking concepts, it is filled with lesser-known health tips that may be beneficial for readers. However, some sections where Enders presents organs as wise mentors can feel unconvincing, particularly when she asserts that skin care won’t alleviate emotional pain.
Enders also detours into broader topics, such as Earth’s atmospheric history when discussing lungs, potentially losing reader engagement. Nevertheless, Organ Speak is certainly insightful for those invested in their bodily health and may serve as a gentle reminder to prioritize personal well-being.
Consider taking a deep breath the next time you confront anxiety-inducing emails.
When body parts wear out, innovative medical solutions emerge. Mary Roach investigates some of the most creative methods for repair, replacement, and enhancement, often through self-experimentation.
Davis critically investigates common beliefs about boosting our immune system, examining the effectiveness of various remedies from vitamin C to turmeric.
Neurologist Guy Leszcziner uses captivating (and sometimes unsettling) real-life stories to delve into how our senses shape our inner world, introducing us to individuals like a man who “tastes” words and another who feels no pain.
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The New Scientist Book Club explored Luminous by Sylvia Park this May.
In May, the New Scientist Book Club shifted gears from Kim Stanley Robinson’s Space Wilderness to focus on Sylvia Park’s intriguing novel, bright. This fresh narrative brings a unique perspective to the science fiction genre, delving into a closer future that is both thought-provoking and imaginative.
Similar to Sierra Greer’s Anniebot, which envisions an integrated society, bright examines complex themes on various levels—emotionally, spiritually, and socially. Set in a unified Korea, the novel intertwines three captivating storylines. The first is a police procedural featuring Detective Jun on a quest to locate a missing robot girl. The second follows a group of adventurous kids, including Louisier and his friends, who discover an abandoned robot boy in a scrapyard. The third story unfolds within a dysfunctional family, highlighting Jun and his estranged sister Morgan, who grapple with the disappearance of their robot brother during their childhood.
I found bright to be a refreshing and contemplative read. Park’s narrative elegantly explores the depths of love and loss, showcasing their journey from a children’s book concept to a much darker, mature storyline. Their writing style is captivating, and I eagerly anticipate their next project, which might include themes ranging from robot consciousness to Peter Pan, as discussed in our video chat.
Our book club members expressed varied opinions about bright. TheGosia was particularly impressed by Park’s depiction of disability, stating, “I love it! The characters are compelling and relatable. The positive portrayal of bionic modifications resonated with me.” Join our thriving community on Discord. “If given the chance, I’d exchange much of my flawed human body for a bionic suit. Often, these themes are presented from a loss perspective.”
Exoi also shared his enthusiasm: “This book is filled with thought-provoking themes regarding robotics and human value. It has more depth and complexity than many authors achieve in a lifetime, and it’s both intelligent and nuanced. I’m thoroughly enjoying it so far.”
Karen Warren added, “While this is just one possible future, it made me reflect on our current societal trends. Humans have always anthropomorphized inanimate objects—naming cars, playing with teddy bears—indicating a deep desire for connection.” She quoted the author: “‘How do we define what is real? Most of us spend our lives unconscious, dreaming, or trapped in a world on a small screen. How can we say we are truly living?’ That encapsulates the essence of the book.”
Alan_P found it challenging to engage with the novel. “I just finished bright—maybe I wasn’t paying proper attention, but I’d appreciate some clarification on the ending,” he mentioned on Discord. “It’s beautifully crafted, yet I struggle to understand why the children were eager to relinquish that broken robot or why the siblings never resolved their familial issues after years of therapy.”
Matthew expressed a lukewarm reaction: “The book felt slow at times, only picking up pace two-thirds of the way in. The events felt disorganized rather than cohesive. I was surprised to discover the true identity of the robot. In comparison to Ian M. Banks’s insightful take on artificial intelligence in my December book club, bright brings up interesting anxieties that reflect in our current literature.”
NASA has unveiled plans for three unmanned lunar missions set to launch later this year, marking a significant step towards its long-term objective of establishing a permanent lunar base.
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These robotic lunar missions will focus on scouting potential sites at the moon’s south pole, gathering scientific data, testing advanced technologies, and laying the groundwork for the return of astronauts to the lunar surface.
“We’re not going to jump into a glass dome moon base right away,” stated NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman during Tuesday’s press briefing. “Our approach will be iterative, signaling industry demand for an array of landers, rovers, technology demonstrations, and scientific payloads these missions can accommodate.”
NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman will speak in Washington on May 19th. Kevin Dietch/Getty Images
The upcoming lunar missions have been designated Moonbase 1, Moonbase 2, and Moonbase 3, all expected to launch by year-end. Isaacman announced that the inaugural mission is slated for this fall.
Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin will be instrumental in the first mission, having secured a NASA contract to transport two science and technology payloads to the moon using its Lunar Lander.
These three flights represent the initial phase of NASA’s comprehensive strategy to establish a moon base, which is projected to continue until 2029. Following this, between 2029 and 2032, NASA aims to develop semi-permanent infrastructure conducive to early lunar habitation.
The agency aspires to establish a sustained lunar presence by the third phase commencing in 2032. Carlos García Galán, NASA’s Moonbase program manager, remarked that the base could encompass “hundreds of square miles,” with crew rotations on the lunar surface planned for regular intervals and continuous operations.
NASA’s lunar base initiative is designed to parallel the Artemis return program. Recently, the Artemis II mission successfully sent four astronauts on a 10-day journey around Earth and the moon, the first U.S. mission to the moon in over 50 years.
Next on NASA’s agenda is the Artemis III mission, targeted for 2027, utilizing one or both lunar landers from Blue Origin and SpaceX to validate technologies in low Earth orbit. If all goes according to plan, NASA anticipates launching the Artemis IV mission to put astronauts on the lunar surface in 2028.
SpaceX is gearing up for the launch of a groundbreaking prototype of its Starship mega-rocket, which has the potential to support NASA’s lunar landing missions. The significant test flight is scheduled for Thursday.
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This upcoming test marks Starship’s 12th flight and introduces the third-generation Starship, V3, which is larger, more powerful, and closer to complete reusability.
The rocket is scheduled to launch from a new pad at SpaceX’s Starbase in southern Texas, within a window opening at 6:30 p.m. ET. Currently, weather conditions are deemed 55% favorable for the flight.
Thursday’s flight will be closely monitored, as NASA intends to utilize Starship for its lunar missions. Under the Artemis program, both SpaceX and Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin are developing lunar landers for NASA’s 2028 moon landing mission, with plans for tests with the Artemis III mission next year.
Furthermore, SpaceX CEO Elon Musk announced intentions to take the company public, potentially leading to the largest IPO in history. Post-IPO, Musk is projected to retain 85% of the company’s voting rights while continuing as CEO, chairman, and chief technology officer, which could make him a trillionaire.
The last test flight of Starship occurred seven months ago; in that time, both the Super Heavy booster and the upper stage, known as the ship, have undergone significant redesigns.
Standing at 408 feet tall when stacked, Starship V3 is taller than its predecessor. The redesign includes new engines for both the Super Heavy and the Ship, collectively generating approximately 18 million pounds of thrust.
Upgrades also include a reduction in booster grid fins, crucial for first-stage return, and an increase in Starship’s propellant tank capacity.
“Together, these enhancements aim to significantly elevate Starship’s capabilities, facilitating full and rapid reuse, propellant transfer in space, deployment of Starlink satellites, orbital data centers, and transport of personnel and cargo to the Moon and Mars,” stated SpaceX on its website.
During Thursday’s suborbital test, Starship will attempt to deploy 22 mock Starlink satellites and reignite one of the upper stage’s six Raptor engines—essential for the deorbit burn upon its eventual return to Earth.
This test flight will last about 65 minutes, with the upper stage expected to splash down in the Indian Ocean at mission’s end. SpaceX is focused on making the ship reusable, employing a mechanical arm to “catch” the spacecraft on a launch tower at the South Texas facility.
SpaceX previously demonstrated a catch maneuver with the Starship’s Super Heavy booster; this time, the booster is set to land offshore in the Gulf of Mexico rather than returning to the Texas launch site. According to SpaceX.
Facing a challenging development timeline, Starship made its debut flight in 2023 but experienced multiple failures last year, including an uncontrolled atmospheric re-entry and two mid-flight explosions. SpaceX aims to have Starship ready for the Artemis III mission next year, coordinating with NASA’s Orion capsule for lunar orbit entry.
If successful, SpaceX aims to position NASA’s Starship for potential astronaut missions to the moon by 2028.
The natural world often teaches us about life through vivid examples. Many kids learn about reproduction through birds laying eggs and bees pollinating flowers instead of focusing on human examples, which can be more challenging to convey.
However, as evolutionary and behavioral biologist Heung-sun Lee discusses in his thought-provoking book On the Origins of Sex: The Weird and Wonderful Science of How Our Planet is Populated, the “birds and bees” analogy is far too simplistic. It overlooks the vivid diversity and intricacies involved in animal reproduction.
Even species that might appear unremarkable have fascinating reproductive practices. For instance, barnyard hens can expel sperm from less dominant males, while male ducks sport corkscrew-shaped penises. Interestingly, female ducks have evolved opposite-spinning vaginas, enabling them to exert control over paternity.
On the Origins of Sex presents numerous examples to illustrate fundamental biological concepts. The wide range of breeding methods observed makes many human practices seem mundane. However, Sun’s ambitious goal is to delve deeper into the critical questions surrounding reproduction, especially the very existence of sexual reproduction.
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The rigid male/female binary feels increasingly outdated. “
This question might baffle readers unfamiliar with evolutionary biology, but from an evolutionary standpoint, sexual reproduction can be far more complex and resource-intensive than asexual reproduction. Achieving sexual reproduction requires two partners—one generating male gametes and the other producing female gametes. At first glance, asexual reproduction appears more efficient, a method still employed by numerous species, including bacteria and fungi. Parthenogenesis, a form of asexual reproduction where embryos develop without fertilization, is noted in over 80 vertebrate species, encompassing California condors, booby sharks, and Komodo dragons.
So why did sexual reproduction become prevalent? Sun dedicates the book’s first section to addressing this question, succinctly introducing essential concepts like the Müller ratchet, proposed in 1964 by geneticist Hermann Müller. This theory describes how the absence of genetic mixing in asexual reproduction leads to the gradual accumulation of detrimental mutations.
Additionally, the Red Queen hypothesis likens evolution to a continuing arms race, suggesting that species must evolve continuously to survive and outpace their competitors, underscoring the inherent risks of sexual reproduction.
Sun, a distinguished research professor at Central Washington University, draws from his connections with numerous scientists whose work he references throughout the book. On the Origins of Sex is his fourth work aimed at a general readership, following his explorations into fairness in nature and the history of beavers.
Despite Sun’s admission that On the Origins of Sex is a selective narrative, the intended audience isn’t always clear. While readers might need some background knowledge in evolutionary biology, the book remains captivating, enriched with examples of exotic animal reproduction that are well-paced.
Sun’s passion for his subject is infectious, particularly evident in his discussions on sexual adaptation and variation. He advocates for a broader understanding of gender, arguing that current definitions are “hopelessly homocentric and disconnected from evolutionary realities.” His detailed, step-by-step explanations of the sciences underpinning sex and gender reveal just how much human society relies on these biological concepts.
He articulates, “In popular discussions, gender is often perceived as a social construct. What is often overlooked is a deeper understanding of gender as a biological construct—something evolutionary biology can elucidate.”
Though careful not to engage in cultural arguments, Sun primarily focuses on evolutionary biology in non-human animals. It becomes evident that nature’s binary classification is an oversimplification. “Biological sex is not merely about distinguishing species that produce sperm from those that produce eggs,” he asserts. Consider fish like eels, clownfish, and wrasse, which can naturally change sex. Within birds and mammals (including humans), numerous variations exist, including intersex individuals.
Gender fluidity is far more prevalent among animals than traditionally understood, affecting not just reproductive roles but also behaviors and social structures. For example, hyenas, known for their matrilineal society, exhibit females possessing a “pseudopenis,” which aids in food competition and complicates pregnancy.
By highlighting this diversity, Sun urges a paradigm shift regarding sex and gender, advocating for a perspective that embraces differences as “natural and adaptive aspects of life’s continuum.” He concludes: “The rigid male/female binary is increasingly recognized as limited and outdated.”
In previous discussions, Sun has expressed a desire to infuse scientific insights into debates about diversity and social justice. He effectively meets this goal through a science-focused approach, enriched with examples from the natural world. Indeed, he posits that the immense diversity of non-human life and the numerous unanswered questions about reproduction should inspire us to welcome complexity and openness.
We may presume to understand the fundamentals of life, yet even Sun closes the book in awe of “how little we truly grasp.”
Check out this essential 1993 favorite, praised by Lixing Sun for shaping contemporary views on sex and gender with its “sharp wit and engaging prose.”
This witty and insightful book showcases the remarkable diversity of sexual behaviors in animals while providing crucial lessons about human sexual diversity.
This 2026 publication explores human attraction and emotional bonds. Justin Garcia, an esteemed evolutionary biologist and executive director of the Kinsey Institute, brings his expertise to the science of dating.
The Orion spacecraft, designed with a distinctive gumdrop shape, has a capacity to carry up to four astronauts. With a width of 16.5 feet and a habitable volume of approximately 330 cubic feet, crew members have been rigorously trained to function effectively in confined spaces, including sleeping, eating, exercising, using the restroom, and communicating with ground control.
Inside the Orion capsule, you’ll find an advanced space toilet equipped with a privacy door. This facility utilizes a vacuum system to expel urine into space, while all other waste is securely stored for disposal upon mission completion.
Post-launch, astronauts have the flexibility to remove and stow two seats to create additional space until landing. Each day, astronauts engage in 30 minutes of training to maintain their physical fitness, as per the Canadian Space Agency. The capsule also features a specialized flywheel device that facilitates exercises like squats and deadlifts.
Looking ahead, NASA plans to reuse Orion components on its forthcoming Artemis III mission, set to launch in mid-2027. This flight will focus on demonstrating important docking and landing techniques in low Earth orbit, followed by the Artemis IV mission, which aims to achieve a lunar landing in 2028.
The Artemis II mission will be commanded by NASA’s Wiseman, with Grover as the pilot. Mission specialists include NASA’s Koch and Canada’s Hansen. The crew has already arrived at the Kennedy Space Center in preparation for the scheduled launch.
NASA is re-evaluating its Artemis moon exploration program. During a press conference on February 27, NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman revealed significant adjustments to the plans for sending humans to the moon for the first time since the Apollo program concluded in 1972.
The upcoming Artemis II mission, set to launch soon, has experienced two challenging tests. The Space Launch System (SLS) rocket faced fuel injection leaks, necessitating a return from the launch pad for thorough analysis and repairs. The SLS saw its last launch in 2022.
Artemis II aims to orbit astronauts around the moon in preparation for a crewed landing in the Artemis III mission, though that goal has now shifted. Artemis III will focus on testing the Orion crew capsule’s docking capabilities with the lander in lunar orbit, along with evaluating the spacesuit for eventual moon landings.
Despite these seemingly negative developments, NASA has laid out plans to increase launch frequency. The revised approach aims for Artemis IV and potentially Artemis V to achieve lunar landings by 2028.
“The entire series of Artemis flights should represent a gradual build-up of capability, with each step advancing our readiness for landing missions,” stated NASA official Amit Kshatriya in a recent statement. “Each phase should be substantial enough for progress, yet measured to avoid unnecessary risks based on our experiences thus far.”
Initially, there were plans to upgrade the SLS rocket’s upper stage for future endeavors. However, Isaacman highlighted a shift towards a “standardized” version, minimizing significant changes for every few missions. “We don’t aim for each rocket to be a work of art,” he said in the press briefing.
These changes denote a shift in the Artemis program’s philosophy, prioritizing thorough testing for every component of the rocket and mission strategy. This approach aims to facilitate swift, small steps rather than large leaps every few years, with Isaacman expressing optimism about reducing the delays that have historically burdened the Artemis program, ultimately promoting a safer and more efficient lunar exploration initiative.
Three highly skilled NASA astronauts are embarking on an exciting mission into space. Reed Wiseman, a former Navy officer who transitioned to astronaut status in 2009, brings significant experience, having spent six months aboard the International Space Station (ISS) in 2014.
Reed Wiseman and daughters. Provided by Reid Wiseman
Since the passing of his wife in 2020, Wiseman has taken on the challenging role of raising two children as a single parent. He acknowledges the stress that comes with being an astronaut, noting that the thrill of the mission is often tempered by the sacrifices it demands from their families.
“I’m a dedicated single father to two daughters,” he shared with NBC’s “TODAY” during a candid interview with fellow crew members. “While it might be easier to relax on the couch with a football game, the reality is that we have four individuals ready to undertake extraordinary and groundbreaking explorations in our civilization.”
Wiseman expressed hope that the outcomes of this monumental mission will validate the sacrifices made by the families of the crew.
“We often look toward the moon and proudly state, ‘We’ve been there.’ However, for this generation—both current and future, known as the Artemis generation—they will look at the moon and proudly declare, ‘We are there,'” he emphasized.
A pendant featuring Jeremy Hansen’s family birthstones accompanied by the engraving “Moon and Back”. Provided by Jeremy Hansen
Each astronaut will carry personal tokens on their historic flights around the moon. Wiseman and Koch will carry letters from their families, while Grover plans to bring a Bible, wedding ring, and a cherished heirloom for his daughters. Hansen will carry a moon pendant featuring his family’s birthstone and the phrase “Moon and Back.” These items serve as meaningful mementos and ways for the astronauts to connect their families to the journey.
Koch, a veteran of profound space missions, holds the record for the longest single spaceflight by a woman, having spent a remarkable 328 days on the ISS in 2019. Alongside fellow astronaut Jessica Meir, she made history with NASA’s first all-female spacewalk.
Christina Koch with her husband and dog. Provided by: Christina Koch
Koch expressed her contentment about not participating in another significant milestone, stating her excitement for her colleagues who are set to leave footprints on the lunar surface.
“I’m genuinely thrilled to see familiar faces taking steps toward walking on the moon. However, if that is not my destiny, I am completely at peace with it,” Koch mentioned, noting NASA has yet to assign a crew for the Artemis III mission.
Victor Glover with his family. Provided by: Victor Glover
In a similar vein, Grover previously participated in a historic flight, flying the SpaceX Crew Dragon capsule to the ISS in 2020. Glover, a former U.S. Navy captain and test pilot, was transitioned from his position in the U.S. Senate when he was selected for NASA’s astronaut program in 2013. Grover and his wife are parents to four children.
Hansen, marking his spaceflight debut, is set to become the first Canadian to explore lunar terrain. A graduate of the Canadian Space Agency’s astronaut program in 2009, he previously served as a fighter pilot and colonel in the Canadian Armed Forces.
With three children, Hansen highlighted the camaraderie that has developed among the crew, remarking that they’ve formed a familial bond through years of intense training together.
Jeremy Hansen with his family. Provided by Jeremy Hansen
The upcoming Artemis II launch will be only the second deployment of NASA’s Space Launch System (SLS) rocket paired with the Orion capsule. The inaugural launch, Artemis I, conducted an unmanned mission that circled the moon over three years ago.
Wiseman, Koch, Grover, and Hansen view this mission as a crucial stepping stone towards the Artemis III ambition, which aims to land four astronauts near the moon’s polar regions in 2027. Throughout their mission, the crew will practice docking procedures in Earth orbit, conduct scientific experiments, and evaluate various systems inside the Orion capsule, serving as a trial run for a forthcoming lunar landing.
“To us, achieving success is synonymous with landing on the moon during Artemis III,” Koch stated. “Success is always Artemis 100. Everything we do is centered around that.”
WThe ash processor has allowed women to engage in exhausting jobs that drain their leisure time. While social media sparked one revolution, it also led to the destabilization of democracies worldwide. Now, with the rise of AI, it appears that screenwriters might be among its primary targets for replacement. It’s easy to succumb to techno-pessimism; however, the new documentary *Seeing into the Future* (Sunday, 23 November, 8 PM, BBC Two) offers a fresh perspective. For individuals with disabilities, tech advancements are already making a significant impact, and this is just the beginning.
Hosted by comedian and *Strictly* champion Chris McCausland, who is visually impaired, the show features surprisingly captivating moments early on, such as how he utilizes his smartphone. Essentially, it serves as his eyes and voice. “What T-shirt is this?” he inquired while holding up the item. “Gray T-shirt with Deftones graphic logo,” his phone declared. It even informs him if his shirt requires ironing. However, McCausland was more curious about the origins of this technology and traveled to the U.S. to explore developments in the homes of tech leaders.
He visited Meta’s facility to test smart glasses. Personally, it felt as if he were either in a lair of a fictional villain or wandering around a castle for treats. This perspective reflects my lack of immediate necessity for such tech, as documentaries aim to unveil possibilities rather than highlight deficiencies. I imagine Mr. Zuckerberg isn’t lurking in a lab with pets or spinning in an egg chair.
I enjoy broadening my viewpoint. Although a button-less glass screen appears to be an exclusive gadget, McCausland acknowledges that his smartphone has turned into the most accessible device he has ever encountered. He expresses excitement about a device he whimsically refers to as Metaspec. This device is always active, offering live video descriptions and identifying what he’s viewing. It functions like a phone but is more like a wearable gadget. “A blind person will never have both hands free,” he remarks.
McCausland and Meta’s Vice President of Accessibility and Engagement Maxine Williams test out smart glasses.
Photo: BBC/Open Mic Productions
At MIT, he learned about nanotechnologies that may enable molecular devices to repair bodily cells. He experimented with a bionic walking aid that attaches to the calf to provide the wearer with additional strength, similar to the knee brace Bruce Wayne wore in *The Dark Knight Rises*. The most significant moment for him was traveling in a self-driving car, marking his first experience of riding alone in a vehicle.
Autonomous vehicles are anticipated to debut in the UK next spring (which feels like a long wait). My instinct is to label them as NOPE. Nevertheless, McCausland noted, “it’s not terribly different from trusting an unfamiliar driver.” These extraordinary cars come equipped with rotating radars that compute data, including the speed of light, to create a 3D model of their surroundings instantly. They might even feature gullwing doors. McCausland appreciated the self-operating handle, which adds a touch of intrigue. Coolness is likely the second best drive an engineer can pursue, the first being ensuring equal access to dignity and independent living. I must clarify that my skepticism doesn’t stem from just a general mistrust of technology; it leads to a mistrust of profit-driven big tech companies in considering public welfare or accountability.
The documentary also offers similar moments of delight, showcasing cultural disparities across the Atlantic. The participants are not merely Americans but the innovative minds of San Francisco. Unintentional comedy is enhanced by McCausland’s dry wit; even while discussing a blood-based computer with a nanotechnologist that could potentially restore eyesight, he seems more inclined to grab a pint at the pub than delve into futuristic devices.
The technology portrayed is distinctly American. “Can you hear the plane?” McCausland urged Zuckerberg to test out the glasses. “Yes, I can see the plane in the clear blue sky,” a serious, bespectacled participant replied. McCausland then exchanged a wry look with his camera crew, quipping, “Do they appear to know what they’re doing?” Judging by their gear, it seems they are indeed professionals. While gadgets become more capable of divine-like capabilities, a layer of skepticism remains, even when wearing Batman’s leg braces.
In his book Quantum 2.0: The Past, Present, and Future of Quantum Physics, physicist Paul Davies concludes with a beautiful reflection: “To grasp the quantum world is to catch a glimpse of the grandeur and elegance of the physical universe and our role within it.”
This enchanting and romantic viewpoint resonates throughout the text. Quantum 2.0 presents a bold attempt to elucidate the fringes of the quantum universe, with Davies as an informed and passionate storyteller. However, his enthusiasm occasionally edges toward exaggeration, with his remarkable writing skills often compensating where more direct quotations might have been fitting.
Davies’ book is quite accessible, despite its ambitious aim of covering nearly every facet of quantum physics. He addresses quantum technologies in computing, communications, and sensing, touches on quantum biology and cosmology, and manages to explore various competing interpretations of quantum theory.
There are no equations in Quantum 2.0, and while some technical diagrams and schematics are included, they do not detract from the reading experience.
As a writer on quantum physics myself, I appreciate how clearly Davies articulates the experiments and protocols involved in quantum information processing and encryption—a challenging task to convey.
As a navigator through the quantum realm, Davies serves as a delightful and amiable companion. His genuine curiosity and excitement are palpable. Yet, this exuberance doesn’t always align with the rigor that contemporary quantum physics research demands. In my view, most quantum-related excitement should come with cautionary notes.
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Readers unfamiliar with quantum research might confuse speculative claims with the truth. “
For instance, within the first 100 pages, Davies asserts that quantum computers could enhance climate modeling—an assertion not widely accepted among computer scientists and mathematicians, especially concerning near-future machines.
In another section regarding quantum sensors, he mentions manufacturers proposing their utility in evaluating conditions like epilepsy, schizophrenia, and autism. I anticipated a justification or insights from experts outside the sensor industry, but the ensuing discussion was lacking in depth and critical analysis.
Additionally, the example Davies provides to demonstrate quantum computers’ advantages over classical ones dates back several years.
Less experienced readers in quantum research may find some of Davies’s speculative statements misleading, although the book remains an engaging read. This is underscored by bold assertions such as, “Whoever masters Quantum 2.0 will certainly control the world.”
To clarify, I don’t dispute Davies’ sentiments. Many gadgets that influence our lives currently depend on quantum physics, and the future may usher in even more quantized technology. I support this notion.
Emerging fields, such as quantum biology and better integration of quantum and cosmological theories, also seem poised for significant breakthroughs. Just ask the numerous researchers diligently working toward a theory of quantum gravity.
However, conveying this future to newcomers necessitates a blend of precision and subtlety in storytelling and writing.
Otherwise, the outcome may lead to disappointment.
“We are not just composed of human cells and microorganisms, but fragments from others as well…”
Lois Fordham/Millennium Images
Hidden Guests Translated by Lise Barnoud and Bronwyn Haslam, Greystone Books
Although my children were conceived using donated eggs, one might presume we lack any genetic connections. Yet, science confirms that this assumption is not entirely accurate.
Research reveals that during pregnancy, fetal cells traverse the placenta and integrate into the mother’s body, affecting various organs. Likewise, my mother’s cells—and even those transferred from her to me—can also reach my children. With an older sister, the cellular sharing could potentially be even more extensive. Her cells may have crossed into my mother, then to me, and subsequently transferred to my children.
This intriguing concept and its ramifications—that we are holobionts, consisting not just of human cells and microbes but also fragments of other cells—lie at the core of the book. Hidden Guests: How Cell Migration and the New Science of Microchimerism Are Redefining Human Identity by Liz Barneau.
Barneau not only documents the serendipitous discovery of these microchimeric cells but also discusses how cultural and political factors have shaped their interpretation. The notion that pieces of a parent, sibling, or even a fetus reside within our bodies or minds can elicit a spectrum of emotions.
“Some find solace in feeling connected to deceased loved ones, while others worry about renewed control exerted by men,” she notes, referencing claims by some anti-abortion advocates that fetal cells “haunt” women post-abortion, causing illnesses and punishing them.
Fortunately, Barneau primarily focuses on scientific evidence. She chronicles the journeys of researchers through their errors, inquiries, and breakthroughs, illustrating how cells derived from fetuses can have both beneficial and detrimental effects. While these cells might facilitate tissue repair and combat tumors, they are also implicated in autoimmune disorders. Barneau handles the more sensitive topics with care, describing how the cells of an aborted fetus can persist in a woman’s body for decades.
Additionally, she explores how their presence can disrupt traditional genetic inheritance patterns, unveiling remarkable biological enigmas. For instance, a woman may use her own eggs to conceive all her sons, yet only a third of her sons may exhibit shared genetic features. Alternatively, a woman with hepatitis C might possess numerous liver cells that correspond to DNA from two former partners, potentially linked to an aborted pregnancy years before. There’s also the case of an Olympic cyclist who tried to explain a suspicious blood type mix by claiming “vanishing twins,” referring to fraternal twins whose DNA merges in utero.
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The existence of microchimeric cells could create extraordinary biological mysteries “
Hidden Guests is clearly articulated and full of insightful analogies. Journalist Barneau likens microchimeric cells in our bodies to stars in distant galaxies that “bear molecular signatures distinct from ours.” She draws parallels stating that blaming a cell for a tumor’s growth is akin to assigning fault for a fire to a firefighter.
Many revelations await readers. Spoiler alert: Barneau encourages contemplation on the fact that, just as donor cells migrate from a transplanted organ to various parts of a recipient’s body, cells containing a partner’s genetic material can enter blood and lymphatic vessels surrounding the vagina, embedding themselves across the body or brain.
This genetic ambiguity, wherein cells journey back through familial lines, can indeed be perplexing. Nevertheless, Barneau excels at elucidating the current landscape of this nascent field and its significant implications for both medicine and human identity without veering into speculation. She adeptly unravels the long-standing perspective of “one individual, one genome” in an engaging manner.
As a mother who once believed I lacked any biological link to my children, I now realize: Hidden Guests is scientifically enthralling and profoundly reassuring. Barneau enlightens us that we carry traces of others within us. Thanks to her insights, I eagerly anticipate the future developments in this field.
Helen Thomson, a writer based in London, columnist for New Scientist
“If you create a sound by clapping your hands together, what sound is produced by clapping just one hand?”
At the start of his book, neuroscientist Nikolai Kukushkin asserts that if you meditate on this Zen Buddhist koan (a paradox utilized for training Zen monks) long enough, it might unveil the roots of the mind and even human experience.
Yet, as many Buddhists recognize, the path to enlightenment is often lengthy and arduous, although it is ultimately fulfilling. One Hand Clap is no different.
The book, initially published in Russian, has been translated into English by the author, who is presently affiliated with New York University. In it, Kukushkin delves into the origins of life and its evolution across a notably varied spectrum. He encourages us to contemplate origin stories through what he terms the idea or essence of nature, rather than a simplistic reductionist approach.
With an understanding of the subtleties of such terms, Kukushkin asserts: Idea If you find that term unsettling or unscientific, you may simply refer to it as essence: Natural Ideas: The Rational Outcomes of Choice.” He relates this to Plato’s concept of the Idea of Nature, known as Eidos or essence.
Through this lens, hydrothermal vents—his favored locations for the origin of life—transform from mere porous rocks and flowing liquids into patterns of activity observable throughout nature. For instance, existence demonstrates a tendency to become progressively intricate by tapping into greater energy sources. This dynamic is common to deep-sea vents, photosynthetic cells, and humans utilizing fossil fuels.
Other essences differentiate between movement and freedom, or desire and preference. However, I discovered that Kukushkin’s research on the sea slug Aplysia revealed how this unassuming creature devised abstract concepts vital for its survival, offering the clearest demonstration of this capability.
The book spans multiple pages and describes interactions among sensory neurons, motor neurons, muscles, and the siphon, which is a crucial respiratory organ on the slug’s back. Kukushkin notes that each neuron’s activity conveys a “different meaning,” such as “touching the tail” or “touching the body regardless of location.” When the slug learns the sources of potential danger (considering that the siphon must be safeguarded at all times), it employs the abstraction of “dangerous contact regardless of location” to make suitable decisions.
Kukushkin argues that similar patterns of abstraction and identification underpin our thought processes, albeit with greater complexity in the human mind. On this foundation of simple abstractions, we build numerous additional concepts that shape every facet of experience, from vision to language.
One Hand Clap encompasses a vast array of topics, giving it the feel of an engaging lecture series peppered with humorous sketches. Some may find Kukushkin’s joviality somewhat excessive. Yet, don’t dismiss it.
Contemporary scientists often refrain from attributing rationality and creativity to biological or chemical systems, steering clear of concepts involving agency and direction in life. Kukushkin highlights that ancient thinkers faced no such dilemmas. Recently, there has been a revival of ideas among certain biologists suggesting that evolution may, in a sense, occur “on purpose.”
Scientists might worry that this perspective resembles pseudoscience or the “intelligent design” of a religious faction. However, especially when tackling profound questions like the origins of life and consciousness, we may need to revisit concepts that provoke discomfort by association.
Despite being constituted of the same matter as the physical world, our subjective experiences involve something remarkably distinct—the “hard problem” of consciousness.
For Kukushkin, the resolution is found in a long arc. Eidos spans from atoms to cells to brains, being objective in their existence “out there.” However, we usually perceive abstraction as internal and subjective. “What if subjectivity is merely an intricate form of objectivity? What if every notion is an essence?” he contemplates.
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Kukushkin recommends thinking about the story of the origin of life in terms of what he calls the concept or essence of nature. “
This is an ingenious attempt to argue that objectivity and subjectivity are two aspects of the same phenomenon. If contemplated thoroughly, Kukushkin asserts, complex problems can be resolved. Personally, I find the phenomenal nature of conscious experience, which intertwines our senses, emotions, and thoughts, more comprehensible when viewed through this lens. However, I wrestle with appreciating how it can bridge the divide between subject and object entirely.
This conundrum may never find a resolution. Yet, for now, One Hand Clap serves as an enlightening koan: the journey toward understanding is often more significant than the understanding itself.
One weekend, I observed one of my family’s cats, a Byronic fellow named Solomon, playfully swat his sister, regurgitate on her bed linens right before my father, who loves birds, and finish off her gold crest. Yet we couldn’t hold it against Solomon. After all, I harbor no ill feelings toward him or his sister. This paradox defines the experience of cat enthusiasts.
The domesticated house cat (Felice Catus) stands as one of the world’s favorite pets. However, there remains uncertainty over whether they can genuinely be classified as domesticated and why anyone sought to do so in the first place. How did we come to cherish them in their various forms, particularly given that numerous species throughout history counted humans as prey?
In his book, archaeologist Jerry D. Moore delves into the origins of that inquiry, Cat tales: history. More noteworthy than its subtitle “History” is the cover’s text: “How we learned to coexist with them.” It’s ambiguous whether this reflects a human viewpoint or a disgruntled feline’s perspective. Regardless, this book is more about our evolving bonds with cats than a mere study of the creatures themselves.
The narrative of cat domestication narrates how, once humans formed settlements and began hoarding grain, rats descended to feast on their hard-won resources, leading them to the African wildcat (Felice Ribica). Thus, a mutually beneficial arrangement formed: humans stored the grain, and the cats enjoyed a free meal.
Yet, the reality is more nuanced, according to Moore. Domestication, typically involving breeding for specific traits, has only become prevalent with cats in the last century, as humans have aimed for particular appearances and unique characteristics. The humorous notion about cats comes to mind, but another frequent catalyst for domestication is herding.
Moore posits that understanding commensalism offers valuable insight into our bond with cats. Nevertheless, cats can exhibit fickle and aloof behavior, and mice often outmaneuver other species, such as terrier dogs. Cats seem to have confidently established themselves within human homes, suggesting an admirable sense of self-assurance. In essence, they have self-domesticated.
Moore effectively links the depictions of big cats in ancient cave art to their visibility in contemporary conservation campaigns. A 2018 study revealed that big cats consistently rank as among the most charismatic animals.
He also positions cats among history’s elite seafarers, traversing trade routes to Asia and the Mediterranean alongside African and Arab navigators. Their later journeys aboard European colonial vessels wreaked havoc in regions like Australia and New Zealand, where local fauna fell victim to feral cats.
While Moore’s writing occasionally flows gracefully, there are also meandering sections that detract from the book’s overall impact. A notable instance involves an early discussion on 20th-century human tool use. Initially puzzling, he later contends that portraying ancient humans as adept hunters minimizes the influence of ancient cats—the primary predators of our ancestors who shaped our physiology and cognition.
Moore indicates that the dynamics between cats and humans may have been more varied than those with other animals. “Cats have existed as agents of fear, subjects of veneration, deities in religious rites, and have been brutally exploited for amusement.”
For me, Cat tales may not present a wealth of groundbreaking information, but it serves as an excellent collection of archaeological insights paired with stunning photography. Even if our understanding of cats remains shrouded in some mystery after reading this book, perhaps that’s exactly how they prefer it.
The rocks lining Britain’s Jurassic Coast are roughly 185 million years old
James Osmond/Alamy
Whispers of Rock Anjana Khatwa, Bridge Street Press (UK). Basic Books (USA, releasing November 4th)
Stones are often overlooked. How frequently do we consider the materials beneath our feet, or the origins of the beach pebbles we idly collect?
And how often do we recognize the role of geology when discussing nature and our pressing discussions about climate change? Any efforts towards addressing climate change and the future of our planet must include our relationship with the elements that constitute our world.
We are fortunate to gain insights from geoscientist Anjana Khatwa through her latest book, Whispers of Rock: Stories from Earth. This work, described as “an exhilarating journey through deep time,” is a heartfelt tribute that is sure to resonate with readers. Khatwa has dedicated a significant part of her life to promoting an understanding of geology, providing the scientific detail that highlights her profound knowledge.
In this book, she methodically covers topics such as the formation of mountains, craters, and slate, interspersing fascinating anecdotes. For instance, the iconic Taj Mahal of India, a symbol of love, was constructed from ivory-white Makrana marble that dates back approximately 2 billion years, originating from ancient landmass collisions. This complex genesis involved tectonic shifts, cyanobacteria, photosynthesis, and calcium carbonate, all coming together to create the stones used in this magnificent structure.
Once the scientific framework is laid down, Khatwa breathes life into the narrative of rocks and minerals, transforming it into a sensory experience far removed from the geology classes of my past. She invites readers to appreciate the negative spaces carved in Petra, Jordan, which form breathtaking structures and the unexpected beauty found within. She describes the markings on the stone as remnants of an ancient river, illustrating her deep connection to these geological marvels, becoming a “keeper of the stories of time.”
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A recipe that involved tectonic movements, photosynthesis, and more resulted in the marble utilized in the Taj Mahal. “
Khatwa’s passion for stones began in her childhood, walking on solidified lava flows in southeastern Kenya. Throughout her book, she takes readers on a global journey, including her hometown of Dorset, England, where she enjoyed 20 years of geological history at the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site.
This adventure reveals how rocks have shaped her life and the lives of many others. We explore the colossal sarsen stones of Stonehenge in England, delve into the science and folklore of New Zealand’s Ponamu greenstone, and trace the socio-political history of the Black Belt, a fertile region in the American South shaped by cotton plantations after the removal of indigenous communities.
However, what truly distinguishes this book is Khatwa’s personal narrative. She openly addresses the lack of diversity in the environmental sector in the UK and shares her experiences as a mother, imparting a sense of vulnerability along the journey.
She reflects on how she was “transformed by the whiteness of my working environment” and came to realize that her cultural and spiritual identity often took a backseat to her scientific persona. This book is essential reading for anyone grappling with that duality or wishing to understand it better. We stand with Khatwa as she navigates the space between belonging and the feeling of being an outsider.
Whispers of Rock is packed with such insight that it requires contemplation after each chapter. Khatwa is also intentionally provocative, acknowledging that the intersection between science and spirituality may make some readers uncomfortable, as it challenges their preconceived notions. Yet, this provocative approach sparks a genuinely enlightening exploration.
Dhurti Shah is a freelance journalist based in London.
Ludovic Slimak contributed to revealing the remains of Thorin, a Neanderthal
Laure Metz
The Last Neanderthal Ludovic Slimak (translated by Andrew Brown) (Polity Press (UK, September 26, US, November 24))
Chance findings of Neanderthal skeletons, hardened soot, and small arrowhead tools beneath leaves at the French Grotte Mandrin have reshaped not only our perception of Neanderthals but also our understanding of early Homo sapiens migrations into Europe.
More intriguingly, this cave has unveiled insights about the initial interactions between the two groups and the reasons behind the success of one species and the extinction of another. This pivotal issue is explored in The Last Neanderthal: Understanding How Humans Die, a new work by Ludovic Slimak, a paleontologist from the University of Toulouse who spearheaded the excavations at Grotte Mandrin.
The narrative focuses on Thorin, a Neanderthal fossil unearthed in 2015 at the cave’s entrance, which revealed five teeth during the excavation. The delicate recovery of this singular discovery required painstaking care, extracting each grain of sand with tweezers over seven years to uncover fragments of his skull and hand.
The Last Neanderthal is a deeply introspective and philosophical work, evoking a vivid sense of what it would have meant to explore Thorin’s existence and the myriad groups that inhabited the cave over millennia. Slimak notes that the unique scent of Grotte Mandrin originates from ancient fire soot preserved within the calcite layers of its walls, forming a distinctive ‘barcode’. This barcode can be accurately dated, providing timelines for various occupations and indicating that Homo sapiens arrived just six months after the Neanderthals vacated the cave. The book reveals that Thorin appears unexpectedly, causing Slimak to express his astonishment, stating, “I did not expect to find a Neanderthal body lying by the roadside, walking through the forest like that. It’s astonishing.”
The jaw of Thorin, a Neanderthal fossil unearthed in 2015
Xavier Muth
This prompts further contemplation about the reasons behind the Neanderthals’ extinction. Although much discussion centers around their decline due to competition with Homo sapiens or climate shifts caused by volcanic eruptions and magnetic field reversals, Slimak offers a fresh perspective. He highlights that the evidence found at Grotte Mandrin points to a layer of small triangular stone points used as arrows by the earliest Homo sapiens, who arrived around 55,000 years ago.
These artifacts bear a striking resemblance to those produced by Homo sapiens at the Ksar Akil site in Lebanon, located nearly 4,000 km away and dating to a similar timeframe. This suggests that these early humans exhibited a far more sophisticated method of sustaining and standardizing practices across extensive social networks, leading Slimak to conclude they had a much more effective “way of life” compared to the Neanderthals, who lived in smaller, isolated groups lacking such consistency.
While one might envision a dramatic battle between Homo sapiens and Neanderthals, the reality was notably different. Slimak draws parallels with the collapse of numerous indigenous communities in post-colonial regions globally, asserting that Neanderthal groups gradually disintegrated when faced with others who possessed a more efficient existence. “The demise of humans reflects the disintegration of their worldview… not through overt violence, but through whispers,” he observes.
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The bones were painstakingly excavated using tweezers to remove one grain of sand at a time. “
Although it is profoundly melancholic to ponder, immersing oneself in the realm of these vanished beings through The Last Neanderthal is a unique privilege.
NASA is moving full steam ahead, at least according to Sean Duffy, the agency’s agent manager.
During an internal employee town hall on Thursday, Duffy cautioned that he could “make safety an adversary of progress” in the quest for a new space race, as reported in meeting notes acquired by NBC News.
“We must prioritize safety, collaborating with FAA and DOT, yet sometimes that same safety focus can obstruct our progress,” said Duffy, who is also the Secretary of Transport.
“We need to embrace some risks and encourage innovation to carry out this mission. There’s always a balance, but we cannot hold back due to fear of risk.”
A spokesperson from NASA stated the agency remains committed to safety.
Duffy’s remarks arise amidst ongoing turmoil at NASA, where questions about the agency’s budget and priorities have persisted for years. Since the Trump administration began, NASA and other agencies have experienced significant funding and personnel cuts in an effort to downsize the federal workforce.
At a Senate hearing this week, Duffy expressed his frustration about the “shadows cast on everything happening at NASA.”
Image of the moon, captured on February 15, 2025, by Lunar Lander, resilience of Ispace from an altitude of 14,439 km. iSpace via business wire via AP file
“If that’s the narrative we crafted, I’ll be in trouble,” Duffy remarked. “We beat the Chinese to the moon. We’ll ensure it’s done safely, quickly, and accurately.”
Facing a Time Crunch
He emphasized that time is not in NASA’s favor.
“We are under pressure to perform effectively, rapidly, and safely,” Duffy stated.
NASA’s Artemis program plays a critical role in American efforts to return astronauts to the moon, aiming for regular lunar missions before eventually heading to Mars.
The U.S. previously dominated the Moonshot era during the Apollo program from the 1960s to 1970s, yet its long-standing advantages are now at risk. Competitors like China, Russia, India, and Japan are also aspiring for lunar missions, igniting a new space race.
China, in particular, is swiftly advancing its human spaceflight initiatives. Recently, they tested new lunar mission equipment and rockets, a key step towards realizing their ambitions.
China aims to land astronauts on the moon by 2030, and has announced plans to potentially build a nuclear power plant on the moon in collaboration with Russia to provide electricity.
In the U.S., President Trump’s budget proposal suggested cutting NASA’s funding by over $6 billion.
Despite a proposed budget reduction of about 24%, Duffy maintained that the Artemis program will proceed, although “cost-cutting is vital.”
Around 4,000 NASA employees have taken a voluntary retirement plan as part of the Trump administration’s initiative to decrease the federal workforce.
In July, Reuters reported that over 2,000 senior employees from NASA are expected to exit due to the recent cuts.
Currently, Duffy believes NASA possesses the necessary resources and talent to accomplish its missions in the near future.
“If we fall short, I assure the President 100% that I will approach OMB, the House, and Senate to request additional funding,” Duffy declared.
“More funding doesn’t guarantee success, but I will seek it if needed,” he added.
Duffy stated that he plans to lead initiatives in government space exploration “in the near future.”
The name Hadian Ion is derived from Hades, the Greek god of the underworld, and is used by geologists to describe Earth’s first 600 million years. While scientists initially believed that a sea of lava engulfed the Earth during the Hadean Eon, recent discoveries have revealed minerals from that era in newly formed rocks. These minerals, known as Zircon, indicate that Hadean Earth likely featured solid land, oceans, and possibly even an active water cycle.
Researchers from the United Arab Emirates, Australia, and China have been investigating whether freshwater existed on Hadean Earth. They collected sandstone samples from Jack Hills in Australia, which contained grains eroded from ancient rocks that housed weather-resistant zircon. Previous studies have shown that 7% of the zircon grains from Jack Hills date back to the Hadean Eon, making them among the oldest materials available today.
The team noted that zircon grains are ideal for this study because they retain the same chemical composition as crystallized Hadean magma. This allows researchers to analyze zircon grains to discern the original magma’s composition. To select the appropriate grains, researchers photographed the zircons and illuminated them with an electron beam using a method called Casodoriminesense.
The researchers focused on zircon particles that were structurally intact and exhibited homogeneous color and fluorescence. They measured uranium abundance and analyzed lead atoms with varying neutron counts. Using a technique called Mass analysis, they examined isotopes in the zircon. The ratio of these isotopes, 238U and 206Pb, provides insight into the age of the crystal and its origins.
The researchers also assessed the ratios of two oxygen isotopes, 18O and 16O, within the zircon. They explained that these oxygen isotope ratios are highly sensitive to interactions between liquids and rocks, allowing them to trace the variations in the Jack Hills Zircons’ O-isotope ratios to determine when the hydration cycle began. Their findings confirmed that the zircon grains originated from a primary magma source.
Next, the researchers analyzed how different oxygen isotope ratios in zircon were generated. They explained that 18O is heavier than 16O due to its additional two neutrons. Typically, zircon crystals formed in magma share oxygen isotope ratios similar to those in modern seawater. Higher heavy oxygen isotope ratios indicate the incorporation of more 18O fragments from the Earth’s crust rather than from seawater.
Meanwhile, interactions between magma and liquids produce distinct oxygen isotope ratios. Some zircons exhibited lighter oxygen isotope ratios of 18O, more than found in contemporary seawater. For such ratios to form, the magma must be at high temperatures and in contact with liquid. The researchers identified zircon crystals that crystallized with very light oxygen isotopic ratios between 200 million and 4 billion years ago, suggesting that the original melt interacted with surface water. These ratios imply that land emerged above the oceans, allowing water to accumulate on Earth’s surface.
To further investigate, the researchers employed computational models to determine the type of surface water that influenced the extreme oxygen isotope ratios in zircon particles. They tested whether the zircon oxygen isotope ratios result solely from interactions with seawater, freshwater, or a mix of both. Their findings indicated that magma interacting only with seawater could not account for the observed oxygen isotope ratios, suggesting a combination of influences. Consequently, researchers proposed that freshwater interacted with early Hadean crust over tens of millions of years to generate light oxygen isotopic ratios.
The researchers concluded that an active water cycle existed on early Earth. They noted that this revised timeline for the onset of the water cycle could significantly impact the emergence of life on Earth. The presence of land above sea level, freshwater, and an active water cycle implies that the building blocks for life may have been present just 550 million years after Earth’s formation. They theorized that life could have potentially originated in freshwater reservoirs in exposed crust. Ongoing research into geological materials from this period may yield further insights into the early processes that facilitated the emergence of life.
In 2026, a group of astronauts is floating inside a gleaming white cylinder, positioned hundreds of kilometers above the Earth.
They gaze down at our planet through a 1.1-meter dome window and rest in an inflatable bed engineered for zero gravity, while conducting experiments focusing on human physiology, plant development, and protein crystallization.
Yet, this isn’t the International Space Station (ISS). It’s not managed by NASA, Roscosmos, or the China National Space Administration. This is Haven-1, the world’s inaugural commercial space station constructed by a private company named Vast.
Set to launch in May 2026 aboard the SpaceX Falcon 9, Haven-1 signifies transformative shifts in how we live and work in space.
“If you can achieve this prior to securing a NASA contract [to replace the ISS], using our funds, we have numerous CEOs,” says Max Haot to BBC Science Focus. “We will not only be the first commercial space station but also the sole predicted bidders to accomplish this.”
Minimum viable space station
Vast’s strategy is quick, concentrated, straightforward, and practical. Rather than constructing an extensive orbital laboratory, they designed a carefully constrained system that prioritizes safety and quality.
With a volume of 45m3 (1,590 feet)3, Haven-1 provides roughly the interior space of a small tour bus. Its life support system operates on a simpler “open loop” model, adapted from previous NASA technology and utilized during the space shuttle era.
The crew will stay for shorter durations compared to the ISS. Instead, four astronauts will visit for approximately 10 days, arriving aboard the SpaceX Dragon spacecraft. Over Haven-1’s projected three-year orbital lifespan, only four such missions are planned.
“As a demonstration of a minimally viable product space station, safety is our top priority,” Haot states. “The second priority is achieving this within an unprecedented timeline. A swift timeline leads to reduced costs.”
Simplifying processes enables Vast to accelerate progress. The main structure is already assembled and will undergo testing this summer after completion in July. By early next year, the entire system should be integrated, and final tests will commence.
Haven-1 hosts four crew members at a time on a 10-day mission. – Extensive
Stations that look like the future
Aesthetically, Haven-1 is a remarkable departure from its predecessor. While the ISS is an engineering marvel, it often resembles a floating plumbing workshop. Haven-1 is designed with a science fiction aesthetic. Its interior is clean, functional, and sleek for space habitats.
This aesthetic reimagining is not solely for show. It’s about functionality. “We go to space to work,” Haot explains. “It’s straightforward to understand that better rest, well-being, and communication lead to increased productivity.”
Here, Vast’s Human Factors team plays a crucial role, led by veteran NASA astronaut Drew Feestel.
For instance, sleep is facilitated using an inflatable bed that applies gentle pressure, mimicking the physical sensations astronauts crave in microgravity.
“Astronauts have various preferences for sleeping on the ISS,” says Haot. “Many opt for pressure against their bodies while they sleep.”
read more:
What occurs aboard the ship?
Each mission to Haven-1 will be shorter yet packed with activities. Scientists can engage approximately 40 crew members throughout the station’s lifespan, given the limited opportunities for human time in orbit.
“Humanity has limited time to learn about space habitation and test technology,” notes Haot. “We believe that you can be incredibly productive within that time.”
Already lined up are research projects addressing human biology, drug screening, plant development, and protein crystal formation. Vast has established partnerships with Redwire Space (USA), Yuri (Germany), and Exobios Fair (Luxembourg).
A French company, Interstellar Lab, is investigating plant growth in microgravity.
Between missions, the station will be utilized to experiment with artificial gravity systems. This is an early step toward enhancing safety and feasibility for long-duration space travel.
Haven-1 is more than just a research platform; it’s a strategic maneuver in a much broader competition.
NASA intends to retire the ISS around 2030 and is currently reviewing bids for the next-generation orbital platform. Haot aims to secure that contract, and launching Haven-1 early with private funding is a bold way to leap ahead of competitors.
“Our goal is to present the most compelling strategy among all contenders,” Haot explains. “We’ve already achieved this by being ahead in technology development, teams, facilities, and certification processes.”
However, winning the race is not guaranteed. A competing spaceflight company, Axiom Space, has already secured a $140 million contract from NASA to connect at least one module to the ISS. Work is ongoing at Axiom, with the inaugural launch slated for late 2026.
Other companies, including Blue Origin, Northrop Grumman, and Starlab, are also in the running.
If successful, the Vast team will be well-positioned when NASA makes its decisions in 2026. If NASA’s objectives do not come to fruition, they may explore opportunities with foreign governments and private entities interested in utilizing the station.
“We remain optimistic about the future of Vast, but our primary focus is internally,” affirms Haot. “Winning this opportunity is of pivotal significance—it’s the largest market opportunity currently in the space station sector.”
Despite shorter time frames, astronauts onboard will conduct hundreds of experiments. – Extensive
From Haven-1 to a comprehensive orbital hub
Haven-1 is just the beginning. Vast’s subsequent venture is Haven-2, a more advanced module adhering to the same philosophy. Starting in 2028, the company plans to launch new modules every six months, ultimately assembling a complete commercial station by 2032.
This modular future facilitates more frequent crew missions, civil research programs, and, ultimately, a broader orbital economy.
Thanks to a partnership with SpaceX, Haven-1 will also become the first space station connected to Starlink, providing ORBIT Gigabit Speed Internet.
“If you want to operate Haven-1 and communicate continuously, you can,” Haot asserts. “This will significantly change how the public and crew interact.”
Redefining space
Haven-1 may not be the largest or the most sophisticated station in orbit, but it will be the first entirely constructed, funded, and operated by private enterprises. That’s the crux of its significance.
Vast aims to reshape the landscape of low Earth orbit, illustrating that space infrastructure can be efficient, elegant, and commercially viable. Whether in science, exploration, or industry, HAOT believes the future of space belongs not to nations, but to those who reach the stars first.
“The goal isn’t to erect luxury hotels in space to attract tourists,” emphasizes Haot. “The aim is to create a robust environment that supports exploration.”
“It’s not without risks. We need to observe what transpires in reality.”
read more:
About our experts
Max Hat is an entrepreneur with a background in aerospace, appliances, and the internet. He currently serves as the CEO of Vast.
The #MeToo movement against women’s sexual abuse gained traction in 2017, leading to what I term the #Anatomytoo moment, during which the derogatory anatomical label attached to female genitals was challenged and deemed unacceptable.
The long-used term for the vulva, referring to the external genitalia of women, was “Pudendum,” a word that historically reflected a biased view within the male-dominated medical field. Interestingly, “Pudendum” traces back to the Latin word Pudere, meaning “to be ashamed,” casting the female anatomy in a negative light as something shameful.
What’s even more unfortunate is that for centuries, “Pudendum” was applied equally to both men’s and women’s external genitals. Over time, men shed the associated stigma, leaving women to bear the burden of this label alone.
Consequently, it’s not surprising that many women feel discomfort regarding their genitals. A UK study revealed that 65% of young women struggle to use terms like “vulva” or “vagina.” This part of their own body often remains unnamed.
Names carry significant weight, as reflected in the evolution of the term “Pudendum.” As a result, it was removed from official anatomical terminology in 2019.
But “Pudendum” is just the surface issue in the broader context of male dominance in anatomy. Female anatomy features a considerable number of anatomical eponyms, which are body parts named after individuals, predominantly male.
A review of 700 anatomical terms identified that 424 were named after male doctors. Among the few exceptions, there was only one woman and several mythological figures and historical leaders, highlighting the gender imbalance.
This systemic patriarchy is unsurprising, given that in 1847, when many of these terms were coined, women were seldom represented in the study of internal anatomy, particularly regarding female reproductive organs.
For example, Gabriele Falloppio is commemorated in the namesake tube connecting the uterus to the ovaries, while Skene’s Glands, named after Alexander Skene, contribute to female ejaculation. The “G” in G-spot honors Ernst Gräfenberg, whereas Bartholin’s gland is named for Caspar Bartholin the younger, linked to sexual lubrication near the vaginal entrance.
The prevalence of masculine terminology is one reason why medical professionals increasingly favor more precise terms. For instance, Bartholin’s glands are referred to as the larger vestibular glands, and Skene’s glands are called paraglandular glands, while the fallopian tube is termed the uterine tube.
Despite this push for change, anatomical eponyms remain widely used in both medical practice and everyday language. Terms like “Fallopian Tube” have yet to be fully supplanted by more contemporary terminology. Moreover, even when linguistic adjustments are made, vestiges of the original terminology often stick around.
While “Pudendum” is eliminated, the equally charged term “Pudendal” survives, referring to female nerves, arteries, veins, and canals, perpetuating remnants of male-centric anatomical language. Most people remain unfamiliar with these terms.
Unlike “vagina,” which is derived from the Latin word for “sheath,” suggesting an alternative name of “vagina,” rebranding this term isn’t on the agenda. However, many still overlook the fact that other female reproductive parts also deserve recognition.
For pudendal nerves and arteries, only one term in the anatomical lexicon encapsulates their enduring stigma: it remains an embarrassment.
Take a look behind the scenes of the BBC’s remarkable new series and discover a wealth of dinosaurs that will reshape our understanding of the prehistoric era.
Canine Companionship
We all wish for more quality time with our dogs. Biotech firms are currently exploring ways to enhance the healthy lifespan of our beloved pets… and possibly uncovering secrets to human longevity.
Building Self-Confidence
Confidence is all about self-assurance. Psychologists believe this is a skill we can cultivate, often simpler than we think. Neuroscience suggests various methods to enhance your self-belief.
Cholesterol Reduction
Is it possible to lower cholesterol without statins? Research indicates that we can improve our cholesterol levels with some straightforward dietary adjustments.
Additionally
Life at the World’s End:The challenges faced by scientists working in Antarctica extend beyond harsh conditions and extreme isolation; they must also navigate the potential hazards they pose to one another. We provide a glimpse into life at one of the globe’s most remote research facilities.
AI as Therapist:While people utilize AI chatbots as mental health supporters, how dependable is the assistance offered by artificial intelligence? We consulted a licensed therapist for insights.
Q&A:Your queries addressed! This month: Why do emotions manifest in various body parts? Are receipts truly coated with chemicals? What scent does a mummy emit? How does background radiation impact particle detectors? What is the average weight of a human body? Are negative calorie foods a reality? Do different ocean tides influence one another? And much more…
Issue 420 Available for Purchase on Tuesday, June 10th, 2025
When I interviewed a nurse practitioner in California, what she valued most about nursing was the “human element” of being with other people. “I think we all just want our suffering acknowledged, even if we can't cure it or do anything about it,” she told me.
She still remembers when a homeless man came into her clinic. The man had a hunched back and his feet were gnarled and calloused from years of being on the street. She was “just sitting there tending to the wound on his leg.” This moment stood out to her. One reason for this is that clinics and hospitals have fewer opportunities to take such time, as the pursuit of efficiency imposes time constraints.
Washing her feet represented what nursing meant to her: humility, service, and witness. “To give him a moment where he says, 'I see you, I acknowledge you, this is me taking care of you,'” she said. “It was powerful for both of us.”
What value is there in being seen by people other than friends and family? What happens when people connect with each other in everyday encounters such as civic life and commerce? Why is it important? Amid efficiency campaigns, constant data collection, and the rapid proliferation of AI connecting jobs such as therapy and education, these questions have never been more urgent.
The benefits of human interaction have long been unmeasurable and often ignored, and the value of the skill of connecting with others has long been considered innately feminine. As a social scientist, I spent five years studying these connections to learn how and why they matter and how people make them in different environments.
In fact, we know that the relationship between doctor and patient is as follows: Stronger impact on medical outcomes Rather than taking aspirin every day to prevent a heart attack, a therapist's Connection with client They have more impact than the specific treatments they adhere to. Reflective and witnessing work is important enough to deserve its name. After five years of interviewing and observing numerous practitioners and clients in their workplaces, I have come to call it “joint labor.”
Bonded labor may enable the modern service economy, but it is more than a kind of lubricant to the engine for the outcomes we value, like understanding algebra, managing diabetes, and learning how to manage anxiety. is fulfilled. Rather, seeing and being seen has powerful effects for both individuals and communities.
First, when people see each other, it helps create dignity by simply communicating that they are worthy of being seen by others. I spoke with Mariah, a woman who ran a program in California where ex-prisoners met with mentors in small groups to teach them entrepreneurial skills. She said it took men a while to get used to the attention. “Like, [they ask] “So you just want to know what I think?” This program helped change men through human attention.
The power of human attention to inspire others may be a truism, but perhaps less well-known is that these effects go both ways. “It's a trusting relationship,” Jenna, a primary care physician, told me. “That trust infuses the relationship with almost a power, a sacredness. There's just something about that. I feel really honored and lucky to be able to do something like that. That trust infuses the relationship with almost a power, a sacredness. It gives me just as much.”
Finally, people help others understand themselves better. “I think every kid needs to be seen. Really I saw it,” said Bart, the school principal. “I don't think kids understand it on a deep level. I don't think they really dig into that information or content until they feel seen by the person they're learning from. ”
These outcomes – dignity, purpose and understanding – mean a lot to the individuals involved. But being seen can also have broader effects. In recent research, Formerly Incarcerated People in Chicago We found that receiving interpersonal recognition from local community leaders helps us feel like we fit in. One former prisoner said he now knew he had “something worth saying”. Who is seen and who is not seen can be politically influenced by the feeling of being ignored. stir up populist angerwhile being promoted by recognition; sense of belonging It brings communities together.
Of course humans too mistakeWe recognize each other because judgment and prejudice can poison these interactions and elicit shame in rather vulnerable moments. But as a therapist told me, if people only seek to avoid shame—for example, by choosing an AI companion or counselor—they may never find relief from shame. Shame is common in relationships, but it's something you should work through together, not run away from. Part of the power of human interaction comes from the risks we take when we reveal ourselves to each other.
Bonded labor has profound implications for individuals and our society, but it is under siege in data analytics, drowning practitioners in collection and measurement requirements, and behind automated treatments, education, etc. We are under threat from an increasingly lagging AI. Novelty. For some, AI may be better than nothing, while others believe it is better than humans. Still, both choose technology to solve problems primarily caused by insufficient staffing and a constant drive for efficiency, and both have a hard time understanding what humans actually do for each. It reflects the fact that it reflects. I don't really understand the others.
Instead, we need to preserve and protect these personal interactions. We need to strengthen the working conditions of combined labor workers so that they can better see others. We need to impose “connectivity criteria” that help us decide which AIs to encourage. For example, the kind of AI that creates new antibiotics. Decoding the language of sperm whales – and which one to apply the brakes on, i.e. intervene in human relationships. Each of us must decide how much we value human connection in our own lives and in the lives of our neighbors.
NASA’s next Artemis mission, scheduled to send four astronauts to orbit the moon, has been postponed until 2026, the agency announced.
The delay also postpones the expected schedule for Artemis’ subsequent mission to land astronauts on the moon.
NASA Administrator Bill Nelson said that under the new schedule, the United States would land astronauts on the moon before China.
NASA announced Thursday that the next Artemis mission that will send four astronauts around the moon will be delayed until 2026. A program already years behind schedule and billions of dollars over budget has been delayed further.
NASA announced in January that the Artemis II mission would launch in September 2025 instead of late 2024. Now, NASA says it is targeting an April 2026 launch to give it more time to address issues with its next-generation Orion space capsule. The problem was discovered during an unmanned Artemis test flight in 2022.
The delay will also postpone the Artemis III mission, which aims to land astronauts near the moon’s south pole. That mission is planned for mid-2027, rather than launching in September 2026.
NASA Administrator Bill Nelson said the adjusted schedule should still put the United States on track to return astronauts to the moon before China lands its own. .
Nelson said the mid-2027 goal is “much earlier than the Chinese government’s stated intention” to land Chinese astronauts on the moon by 2030.
China’s interest in moon exploration has sparked a new space race of sorts, with some U.S. experts and officials saying that if China reaches the moon’s surface before the United States, There are growing concerns that there may be competition for space resources, which are thought to be water ice. They will be trapped in a permanently shadowed crater at the moon’s south pole. It is believed that water on the moon could be used to make rocket fuel to power missions deep into space.
“Landing on the moon’s south pole is critical to avoid ceding part of the moon’s south pole to China,” Nelson said.
NASA officials attributed the need to delay the Artemis mission to a flaw in the Orion spacecraft’s heat shield that was discovered during the capsule’s uncrewed flight. NASA Deputy Administrator Pam Melroy said, for example, that the researchers noticed that the heat shield was worn in places, with some of the outer layers cracking and peeling off due to internal pressure buildup.
Orion’s heat shield covers the bottom of the capsule and plays a key role in protecting the spacecraft and its potential astronauts from extreme temperatures upon re-entry into Earth’s atmosphere. .
Extensive testing has determined that the Orion capsule’s unique method of returning to Earth likely eroded its heat shield. The spacecraft is designed to perform what’s called a “skip entry,” in which it enters and exits the atmosphere, dissipating energy and slowing it down.
But Melroy said this reentry caused heat to build up inside the outer layer of the heat shield, eventually causing it to crack and wear out in parts.
The delays for Artemis’ next two flights will give engineers time to address these shielding issues and prepare for what Nelson called a “modified approach trajectory.”
“Astronaut safety is always paramount in our decisions. It is our North Star,” Nelson said. “We will not fly until we are confident that we have made the flight as safe as possible for our passengers.”
With the new administration of Donald Trump set to take over the White House in January, some space industry experts are speculating that parts of the Artemis program may be revisited or even scrapped. There is.
But Melroy said the decision to proceed with the Artemis program was “pretty clear” and should not be delayed during the transition period as the incoming administration establishes its goals and priorities.
“We would like to postpone any decisions about starting or ending the program for as long as possible,” Melroy said. “We had to postpone important decisions for our new team and we haven’t had a chance to explain them to anyone since we haven’t yet accepted a transition team.”
NASA has spent more than $42 billion over more than a decade developing the new Space Launch System mega-rocket and Orion spacecraft aimed at bringing astronauts back to the moon. As part of this effort, NASA envisions launching regular missions to set up base camps on the moon before eventually heading to Mars.
Administrative innovations in Southwest Asia in the fourth millennium BC, such as cylindrical seals wrapped around the earliest clay tablets, laid the foundation for one of the first writing systems, Protocuneiform. Although seals were rich in iconography, few studies have focused on the potential influence of specific motifs on the development of sign-based proto-cuneiform. in new researchpublished today in the journal ancient, scholars identified a basic proto-cuneiform symbolic precursor in seal motifs that described ships and textile transport, highlighting the synergy of an early system of clay-based communication.
Cylinder seal and seal impression: royal priest and his acolytes feeding the sacred flock. Uruk period, approximately 3200 BC. Image credit: Marie-Lan Nguyen.
The origins of writing in Southwest Asia are often traced to accounting systems developed during the 4th millennium BC. This accounting system physically documented transactions using tokens, tags, banknotes, numerical tablets, and seals.
Proto-cuneiform was first attested on clay tablets from the city of Uruk in southern Iraq around 3350-3000 BC. The script is a complex accounting system with hundreds of iconographic symbols, many of which remain difficult to interpret.
The elaboration of tokens, long used throughout Southwest Asia, may have stimulated the development of proto-cuneiform and served as a model for some symbols, but apart from numerical notation, the Comparisons can hardly be proven, and the forms that emerge from the multimedia environment of the origins of symbols can be diverse.
“The conceptual leap from pre-writing symbolism to writing is an important development in human cognitive skills,” said Professor Silvia Ferrara of the University of Bologna.
“The invention of writing marks a transition between prehistory and history, and the findings of this study demonstrate how some of the later prehistoric images are one of the earliest invented writing systems. We bridge this gap by showing how
“Although the close relationship between ancient seals and the invention of writing in Southwest Asia has long been recognized, the relationship between specific seal images and symbol shapes has remained largely unexplored,” she added. Ta.
“This was our starting question: Did seal images contribute significantly to the invention of symbols during the first writings in this region?”
To find the answer, Professor Ferrara and colleagues compared the design of the columns with proto-cuneiform, looking for correlations that might reveal a direct relationship, both in graphic form and meaning.
“We focused on images of seals, which arose before the invention of writing and continued to develop into the proto-writing era,” said Kathryn Kelly and Mattia Caltrano, researchers at the University of Bologna. Ta.
“This approach allowed us to identify a series of designs associated with the transport of textiles and pottery, which later evolved into corresponding proto-cuneiform scripts.”
This discovery reveals a direct link between the cylinder seal system and the invention of writing and provides a new perspective to study the evolution of symbolic and writing systems.
“Our findings show that the designs inscribed on the cylinder seals are directly related to the development of proto-cuneiform in southern Iraq,” Professor Ferrara said.
“These designs also show how the meanings originally associated with these designs were integrated into the writing system.”
_____
kathryn kelly others. Seals and symbols: Tracing the origins of writing in ancient Southwest Asia. ancientpublished online on November 5, 2024. doi: 10.15184/aqy.2024.165
Standing at an impressive height of 29,032 feet, Mount Everest surpasses the nearby Himalayas by several hundred feet.
Scientists have discovered that the world’s highest mountain is still growing, attributed in part to the merging of two nearby river systems tens of thousands of years ago.
Researchers found that Everest rose between approximately 50 feet and 160 feet due to this merging, as detailed in a study published in Nature Geoscience.
“Even a seemingly permanent landform like Mount Everest can be continuously changed by various geological forces,” said Dai, a geoscientist from the China University of Geosciences in Beijing and co-author of the study, in an email to NBC News.
The Himalayas, including Everest, have been steadily increasing in height since the collision of the Indian subcontinent and the lower Eurasian plates around 45 million years ago.
A significant event occurred about 89,000 years ago when the Kosi River overtook the Arun River, leading to substantial erosion of rock and soil from the Himalayan foothills nearly 80 miles from Everest.
Through a geological process known as isostatic rebound, erosion reduced the weight of the area, allowing for the uplift of the Earth’s crust.
Scientists estimate that this rebound is causing Everest to grow at a rate of 0.16 to 0.53 millimeters per year, accounting for half of its annual uplift rate.
Research suggests that this phenomenon may explain why Mount Everest is unusually tall compared to its neighboring peaks.
Professor Dai noted that the role of isostatic rebound associated with river capture and erosion in Everest’s elevation adds a novel aspect to the study of mountain formation.
“These findings, while not completely revolutionary, are certainly surprising and could prompt a reevaluation of current models of the formation and evolution of the Himalayas,” Dai commented.
The study also emphasizes the interconnectedness of the Earth’s systems, where changes in one region can have significant impacts on others,” he added.
Gigantopythos black probably lived in a “mosaic of forest and grass”
Garcia/Joanne Boyau (Southern Cross University)
The largest known primates went extinct between 295,000 and 215,000 years ago, probably because they were unable to adapt their food preferences to a changing climate.
A relative of modern orangutans, Gigantopithecus brachy Known as “Giganto”, it was 3 meters tall and weighed up to 300 kilograms.
Despite living for more than two million years, the species has been shrouded in mystery since 1935, when a fossilized tooth was discovered in a traditional medicine store in Hong Kong. The giant tooth was initially thought to belong to a dragon, but paleontologists soon discovered it. In fact, it turns out that it belongs to a primate.
“When I think of them, I think of the giants,” he says. Kira Westaway Graduated from Macquarie University, Sydney, Australia. “Usually when you think of giants, you think of dinosaurs, but this was a primate giant.”
To establish a timeline of when this ape became extinct, Westaway and her colleagues studied hundreds of teeth and four jawbone fragments found in caves throughout southern China's Guangxi province. By observing the radioactive decay of certain elements, such as uranium, in teeth and bones, researchers can determine how much time has passed since death.
They also examined other deposits in the cave, such as pollen and sediment, to determine its condition. G. Blackie – Herbivores – lived there.
“We show that starting 2.3 million years ago, the environment was a mosaic of forests and grasses, providing ideal conditions for flourishing. G. Blackie population,” the researchers wrote. “However, just before and during the extinction period between 295,000 and 215,000 years ago, increased seasonality led to increased environmental variability, which led to changes in plant communities and an increase in open forest environments. the researchers added.
By studying the stripes on fossilized animals' teeth, researchers discovered signs of chronic stress caused by lack of access to their favorite foods. They say the creature's failure to adapt to a changing climate and accompanying fluctuations in food likely sealed its fate. In contrast, orangutans, of which three species survive, have adapted their dietary preferences and behavior in response to increasing climate change.
“eventually [G.blacki’s] “The struggle to adapt led to the extinction of the largest primate to ever live on Earth,” the researchers wrote. They also dispelled the idea that hominins may have competed with or hunted the species, precipitating its extinction. “There's no evidence for this,” Westaway says.
julian lewis Researchers at Griffith University in Queensland, Australia say they present a convincing case that environmental change, particularly increased habitat variability, has likely had negative effects on organisms. . G. Blackie.
However, he added that the fossils studied came from a very limited geographical area.resembles a fossil G. Blackie It is also found in Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia.
“One thing seems almost certain: Their actual geographic range would have been much larger than current fossils indicate,” Ruiz says. “We don't know how much this will affect the timing of global extinction of this species.”
anne marie bacon Researchers at France's National Center for Scientific Research say this study can help us understand. Mr. G. Blackie But studying China's fossils only reveals part of its history.
“Although this paper focuses on records from China, we do not know whether the geographic range of great apes extended into Indochina because there are few paleontological remains in Asia.” [mainland South-East Asia]we also looked at what the southern limit of this range was,” she says.
NASA/JPL-California Institute of Technology/Gregory M. M. Weigand
NASA’s European Clipper mission will launch in October 2024 and head to Jupiter’s moon Europa, where it will search for signs that the icy moon may be suitable for life.
The spacecraft will not be orbiting Europa when it arrives in 2030, but will instead orbit Jupiter in a way that will allow it to repeatedly pass the moon at a distance of nearly 25 kilometers from the planet’s surface.
“We’re going to get a really comprehensive assessment of what Europa is like,” he says. jennifer scully at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in California.
Of the moon’s many mysteries, perhaps the most important are the structure of its internal oceans and whether it is habitable. The Clipper won’t be able to search for life itself, but it will set the stage for possible future missions.
May 2023, Shendi Take 1 drilling site in Xinjiang, China
Xinhua/Shutterstock
This year, China National Petroleum Corporation began drilling what will be China’s deepest hole and one of the deepest in the world in the northwestern province of Xinjiang.
Ann announcement In May, China’s state news agency Xinhua said the project would drill more than 11,000 meters into billion-year-old geological formations in the remote Taklamakan Desert, calling it an “unprecedented opportunity to study regions deep beneath the earth’s surface.” It was reported.
This photo from the International Space Station orbiting 462 miles above cloudy Central Asia shows the jagged Moon waning just above Earth’s horizon. Credit: NASA The crew of Expedition 70 is picking up the pace as they load cargo onto a U.S. cargo ship for its upcoming departure.Seven people international space station (ISS) residents also continue to focus on a range of microgravity sciences to improve human health and commercialize low Earth orbit. The SpaceX Dragon cargo spacecraft is nearing the end of its docked stay at the forward port of the Harmony module. Over the next few days, the four astronauts will pack more than 3,500 pounds of scientific materials and hardware into Dragon for removal and analysis back on Earth. NASA ESA aeronautical engineer Jasmine Moghberg and Commander Andreas Mogensen (european space agency) removed the scientific cargo freezer containing the research samples from the station’s EXPRESS rack and stowed it inside the Dragon for return to Earth. Astronaut Loral O’Hara and astronaut Satoshi Furukawa transported a cargo bag filled with hardware and trash and strapped it inside Dragon in preparation for its descent into Earth’s gravity. Japan’s tallest mountain, Mount Fuji, was photographed as part of the International Space Station orbiting 420 miles above the sky. The active stratovolcano’s peak reaches more than 12,000 feet (approximately 3,700 meters) above sea level and is covered in snow for five months of the year. Credit: NASA Ongoing research and crew activities The crew continued to load hardware and science onto the ship. space x The Dragon cargo spacecraft’s managers and operations team today are assessing weather conditions at various possible landing sites for its return to Earth, in preparation for its scheduled undocking Thursday afternoon. Despite the hectic cargo traffic, microgravity research continued apace, as the crew continued to explore how weightlessness affects biology and physics. NASA’s O’Hara will process the cell samples for culture, which researchers will analyze to investigate the senescence-like properties of immune cells and the regenerative capacity of liver cells.of space age Health research may provide deeper insight into the biology of aging and its impact on disease mechanisms. A nighttime view of Mexico City, Mexico’s capital and largest city with a population of 9.2 million people, was captured from the International Space Station, which orbits 460 miles above Central America. On the far left is the bright Felipe Angeles International Airport, easily observed from low Earth orbit. The large, dark area in the upper center is the Lake Texcoco Ecological Park. The dark area directly below is the Guadalupe Mountains. Credit: NASA From Mr. Furukawa JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency) has replaced components in a microgravity science glovebox that supports physics experiments to produce optical fibers better than those produced on Earth.of Optical fiber manufacturing-2 This experiment has the potential to advance optical transmission capabilities that will benefit the Earth and space industries. Mogensen previously worked in the Harmony module, shaking mixing tubes containing different organisms for a variety of health-promoting biological and botany studies. These tubes are part of a NanoRacks-sponsored program that allows educational institutions and private organizations to conduct research on the space station. Contribution of Russian cosmonauts Today, cosmonauts Oleg Kononenko and Nikolai Chubb took turns wearing sensor-equipped hats and continuing to operate a computer. Roscosmos Research exploring future spacecraft and robot control technology. Researchers will use the data to train future crews and plan potential manned planetary missions. Cosmonaut Konstantin Borisov spent most of the day maintaining life support equipment, then synchronizing his camera with the station’s clock, which is set to GMT (Greenwich Mean Time). (function(d, s, id){ var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0]; if (d.getElementById(id)) return; js = d.createElement(s); js.id = id; js.src = “//connect.facebook.net/en_US/sdk.js#xfbml=1&version=v2.6”; fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs); }(document, ‘script’, ‘facebook-jssdk’));
An artist’s rendition of the Magellanic Star Stream, depicting the Small and Large Magellanic Clouds, the Milky Way’s nearest neighbors, is shown in the diagram. The gaseous Magellanic Stream swirls behind the galaxies, spreading across the southern sky as they move, with 13 red giant stars discovered within the stream.
Astronomers from the Center for Astrophysics at Harvard University and the Smithsonian University have solved a 50-year-old mystery by identifying stars within the Magellanic Stream. The discovery helps reveal the distance to the stream, providing new insights into the history and characteristics of our galaxy and its neighbors.
The study, published in the Astrophysical Journal, showcases the discovery of 13 stars within the stream and their unique characteristics that place them precisely within the mysterious structure. The stars’ distances and chemical compositions offer clues to the formation of the Magellanic Stream and the interactions of the Magellanic Clouds with the Milky Way.
By conducting a spectroscopic analysis of distant Milky Way stars, researchers were able to determine their chemical makeup and velocity, ultimately allowing them to identify stars within the Magellanic Stream. This discovery also sheds light on the origin and gravitational pull of the stream, as well as its potential role in the future formation of new stars within the Milky Way.
The Magellanic Stream, which acts as a supplier of cold neutral gas for the formation of Milky Way stars, also holds valuable insights into the composition of galaxies and the distribution of dark matter. Further study of the stream and additional discoveries of stars are expected to provide more surprises and lead to a deeper understanding of our galaxy’s outer reaches.
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