Two colossal, ultra-hot rock formations, positioned 2,900 kilometers beneath the Earth’s surface in Africa and the Pacific Ocean, have influenced Earth’s magnetic field for millions of years, according to groundbreaking research led by Professor Andy Biggin from the University of Liverpool.
Giant superheated solid masses at the Earth’s mantle base impact the liquid outer core. Image credit: Biggin et al., doi: 10.1038/s41561-025-01910-1.
Measuring ancient magnetic fields and simulating their generation presents significant technical challenges.
To explore these deep Earth features, Professor Biggin and his team used paleomagnetic data in conjunction with advanced Earth Dynamo simulations. The flow of liquid iron in the outer core generates Earth’s magnetic field, akin to a wind turbine producing electricity.
Numerical models reconstructed critical insights about magnetic field behavior over the past 265 million years.
Even with supercomputers, conducting these long-term simulations poses enormous computational challenges.
The findings showed that temperature at the upper layer of the outer core is not uniform.
Instead, localized hot areas are accompanied by continent-sized rock structures exhibiting significant thermal contrasts.
Some regions of the magnetic field were found to remain relatively stable over hundreds of millions of years, while others displayed considerable changes over time.
“These results indicate pronounced temperature variations in the rocky mantle just above the core, suggesting that beneath hotter regions, liquid iron in the core may be stagnant, rather than flowing intensely as observed beneath colder areas,” Professor Biggin stated.
“Gaining such insights into the deep Earth over extensive timescales enhances the case for utilizing ancient magnetic records to comprehend both the dynamic evolution and stable properties of deep Earth.”
“These discoveries also bear significant implications for understanding ancient continents, including the formation and breakup of Pangea, and could help address long-standing uncertainties in ancient climate studies, paleontology, and natural resource formation.”
“It has been hypothesized that, on average, Earth’s magnetic field acts as a perfect bar magnet aligned with the planet’s rotation axis in these regions.”
“Our findings suggest that this may not be entirely accurate.”
This study is published in today’s edition of Nature Earth Science.
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AJ Biggin et al. Inhomogeneities in the mantle influenced Earth’s ancient magnetic field. Nature Earth Science published online on February 3, 2026. doi: 10.1038/s41561-025-01910-1
Possible Large Clump of Dark Matter Near Our Galaxy
Credit: Alamy
A significant discovery indicates the presence of a gigantic dark matter cloud adjacent to our solar system. These clouds, previously unidentified in the Milky Way, have been detected thanks to precise cosmic clocks known as pulsars.
Current cosmological models propose that galaxies are enveloped in diffuse clouds of dark matter called halos, with smaller subhaloes scattered throughout. However, the elusive nature of dark matter, which neither emits, absorbs, nor reflects light, complicates the detection of these halos and subhalos.
To quantify this dark matter phenomenon, Sukanya Chakrabarti and her research team at the University of Alabama in Huntsville leveraged pairs of rapidly spinning neutron stars known as pulsars. These cosmic clocks emit beams of light at consistent intervals, allowing researchers to measure variations in their trajectories when influenced by large nearby mass.
Given that dark matter interacts with ordinary matter solely through gravity, an adjacent dark matter subhalo would alter the orbit of neighboring pulsars. This is precisely what Chakrabarti and her collaborators identified approximately 3,000 light years from our solar system. “Our observations detected a pair of pulsars whose motions indicate an unexpected gravitational pull from an unseen object,” comments Philip Chan from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.
The research revealed that this gravitational influence originated from an object approximately 60 million times more massive than the Sun and spanning hundreds of light years. After mapping the location against stellar data, no correlations with known celestial bodies were found. If validated, this object could be a unique example of dark matter.
This potential dark matter subhalo could be the only instance of such size in our local galactic vicinity. “There may only be one or two of these large features nearby, depending on dark matter models,” suggests Alice Quillen at the University of Rochester in New York. “Different dark matter theories propose varying distributions of these structures.”
This pursuit is what catalyzed Chakrabarti’s interest in subhalo research. “Our objective is to map as many subhaloes as we can throughout the galaxy, and we’re just beginning to achieve that. Ultimately, we aim to elucidate the nature of dark matter,” she asserts.
However, pulsar binaries are scarce; only 27 instances provide sufficient accuracy for measuring gravitational acceleration. This scarcity explains why this subhalo remained undetected until now. “Given the finite number of pulsars, we are exploring alternative methods to monitor them using a broader array of objects,” states Zhang. If successful, this could be a breakthrough in understanding the true nature of dark matter.
New Research Reveals Japanese and Australian Geologists Uncover Evidence Linking Oceanic Igneous Provinces to Low-Order Extinction Events During the Triassic Period
Early Earth. Image credit: Peter Sawyer/Smithsonian Institution.
“Mass extinctions represent profoundly catastrophic events in the history of Earth,” stated Dr. Jiang Jun Huang along with a team of geologists from Jilin University and Curtin University.
“While numerous mass extinctions have shaped Earth’s evolutionary timeline, five major events are particularly notable.”
“These pivotal extinctions radically altered the trajectory of life on our planet.”
“Besides the five major mass extinction events, numerous sub-extinctions frequently occur, such as the Norian-Rhaetian extinction of the Triassic period.”
“Although the causes of five major extinction events are well documented, the triggers of smaller, lower-order extinctions remain largely speculative.”
In this groundbreaking study, the researchers investigated remnants of oceanic islands, seamounts, and plateaus on the Tibetan Plateau, mapping the evolution of the Meso-Tethyan and Neo-Tethyan oceans.
Throughout the Triassic, three significant episodes of oceanic large igneous provinces (LIPs) materialized between 250 and 248 million years ago, 233 and 231 million years ago, and 210 and 208 million years ago.
By synthesizing the geological records of these LIP episodes with extensive Triassic geological datasets, the team established a link between marine LIPs and at least four extinctions in marine life, which were spurred by subsequent anoxic-oxic events.
“Marine LIPs account for half of the identifiable geologically induced extinctions during the Triassic,” the scientists reported.
“This suggests that oceanic LIPs were the primary initiators of the Triassic extinction events.”
“Although eruptions related to oceanic LIPs are frequent, evidence for ancient occurrences may significantly diminish due to subduction processes during the closure of ocean basins.”
“This destruction complicates the identification of such records, and even when identified, interpreting and dating them accurately poses challenges.”
“Orogenic belts, remnants of long-extinct oceanic basins, may harbor many unidentified ‘ghost’ ocean LIPs, whose eruptions likely played a critical role in other Phanerozoic extinctions, which remain under-recognized in current Earth system models.”
The team’s study is published in the journal Geology.
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Jian Jun Fan et al., “Large Oceanic Igneous Provinces: A Major Driver of Repeated Triassic Extinctions,” Geology, published online on January 20, 2026. doi: 10.1130/G53406.1
Artist’s Impression of the Huayuan Biota Ecosystem
Dinghua Yang
A remarkable fossil find has emerged in southern China, unveiling an ecosystem that dates back 512 million years, immediately postdating Earth’s first mass extinction event.
The fossils belong to the Cambrian period, initiated 541 million years ago, a time characterized by a significant increase in animal diversity which led to the emergence of most major animal groups.
This evolutionary flourishing faced a dramatic setback with the Shinsk event around 513.5 million years ago, when oceanic oxygen levels plummeted, resulting in the extinction of various animal groups.
Han Zeng and his team at China’s Nanjing Institute of Geology and Paleontology began unearthing these fossils in 2021 at a quarry in Huayuan County, Hunan Province.
So far, researchers have documented 8,681 fossils from 153 distinct species, approximately 60 percent of which are previously unknown to science. This ancient ecosystem has been dubbed the “Flower Garden Biota,” potentially surpassing Canada’s renowned Burgess Shale in significance.
This ecosystem comprises 16 major animal groups believed to have thrived in deep-sea environments, largely unaffected by the Shinsk event.
“Our understanding of the Shinsk extinction event was limited to skeletal fossils of certain animals, such as archaeal sponge reefs, trilobites, and small shelled fossils,” Zeng explains.
The Flower Garden Biota also includes various mollusks. Zeng noted, “The extinction predominantly affected shallow-sea habitats, while the deep-sea environments, where the Huazono biota thrived, remained largely stable.”
Arthropods of the Hanazono Biota Family
Han Zeng
The majority of fossils unearthed belong to arthropods akin to modern-day insects, spiders, and crustaceans. Other fossil types include mollusks, brachiopods, and cnidarians, relatives of jellyfish.
One notable specimen is Guangshancharis Kunmingensis, an 80 cm long arthropod recognized as the largest animal discovered at the site, likely a predatory species within the Huayuan ecosystem.
Another arthropod, Hermetia, was previously known only from Canada’s Burgess Shale but is now found in the Flower Garden Biota, indicating that these early animals were capable of long-distance dispersal via ocean currents, according to Zeng.
Zeng emphasized that the exceptional preservation of the fossils is due to rapid burial under fine sediment, capturing intricate details of soft anatomy including limbs, antennae, tentacles, gills, and even nervous tissues.
Aronia: A Cambrian Sea Creature Similar to Sponges
Han Zeng
Joe Moishuk from Canada’s Manitoba Museum reflects that the site ranks among top Cambrian fossil locations, celebrated for its biodiversity and preservation quality.
While some groups like sponges and trilobites are known to have declined significantly during the mid-Cambrian Shinsk event, many animal groups’ fates remain unclear.
“Findings like the Hanazono biota offer invaluable insights into the biodiversity of this period, helping to illuminate gaps in our understanding of Earth’s history,” notes Moisiuk.
Tetsuto Miyashita of the Canadian Museum of Nature mentions that two key Cambrian fossil sites are the 520-million-year-old Chengjiang Biota in China and the 508-million-year-old Burgess Shale in Canada.
“Comparing these sites is akin to contrasting Bach’s ensemble with The Beatles; understanding the variances is crucial before grasping the overarching narrative of these ecosystems,” Miyashita states. “New biota discoveries assist paleontologists in unraveling the influence of geographical features, mass extinctions, and oceanic conditions.”
A conspicuous absence in the Flower Garden Biota is any evidence of fish. “Where are the fish?” queries Miyashita. “Are they scarce, which is globally uncommon, or are other ecological factors at play?”
Zeng mentions that not all fossils have been thoroughly scrutinized yet, suggesting the possibility of undiscovered species, including fish, as further exploration continues.
Satellite image of Antarctic iceberg A23a displaying meltwater on its surface
NASA
The Antarctic iceberg A23a, comparable in size to a city, is experiencing an alarming build-up of meltwater on its surface, signaling potential fragmentation.
Researchers are captivated by the massive A23a iceberg due to its unique ability to collect and retain meltwater.
Satellite visuals reveal a distinctive raised ice rim encircling the entire cliff-edge of this slab-like iceberg, giving it an intriguing resemblance to an oversized playground. This pooling region spans approximately 800 square kilometers, larger than the city of Chicago.
In several areas, the meltwater appears deep and brilliantly blue, indicating depths of several meters. The total volume of water on A23a is estimated to be in the billions of liters, enough to fill thousands of Olympic-sized swimming pools.
Douglas MacAyeal from the University of Chicago explains that this rim effect is a typical phenomenon observed in the world’s largest icebergs.
“My hypothesis is that the edges curve downward from the nose, forming an arched dam that retains snowmelt,” he states. “This curvature likely results from a combination of wave undercutting and melting ice, as well as the inherent flexibility of vertical ice cliffs.”
The streaks of water visible in the satellite images indicate remnants of past ice flow when these icebergs were still attached to the Antarctic coast, he noted.
Image of iceberg A23-A captured from the ISS on December 27, 2025
NASA
A23a dates back to 1986 and originated from the Filchner-Ronne Ice Shelf, initially being over five times its current size. It once held the distinction of being the largest iceberg on Earth.
In recent years, A23a has drifted north into increasingly warmer waters, leading to its gradual fragmentation. The substantial volume of surface meltwater can ultimately contribute to its collapse. “Should that water seep into its fractures and subsequently refreeze, it will effectively split the iceberg,” remarks Mike Meredith from the British Antarctic Survey.
He contends that the iceberg can deteriorate unexpectedly within a matter of days.
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Primordial black holes likely formed shortly after the Big Bang.
Shutterstock/Mohd. Afuza
An exceptionally massive black hole from the early universe may represent a type of exotic starless black hole first theorized by Stephen Hawking.
In August, Boyuan Liu and his team from the University of Cambridge used the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) to uncover a peculiar galaxy named Abell 2744-QSO1. This ancient galaxy, dating back 13 billion years, harbored a black hole around 50 million times the mass of our Sun but hosted extremely few stars.
“This contradicts traditional theories which dictate that stars must form prior to or simultaneously with black holes,” Liu explained. Typically, black holes are believed to evolve when massive stars exhaust their fuel and undergo gravitational collapse.
Liu and his team conducted initial simulations suggesting that QSO1 might have originated as a primordial black hole—an exotic concept introduced by Stephen Hawking and Bernard Carr in 1974. Unlike conventional black holes, primordial black holes are thought to form from density fluctuations shortly after the Big Bang.
While most primordial black holes likely evaporated by the time of the JWST’s observations, some might have persisted, evolving into larger black holes like QSO1.
Although Liu and his team’s calculations align broadly with their observations, they remain relatively simple and do not factor in the intricate interactions among primordial black holes, gas clouds, and stars.
Now, the authors have employed advanced simulations to investigate how primordial black holes grew in the universe’s infancy. They analyzed how gas dynamics influenced the formation of early primordial black holes and how interactions with newly formed and dying stars affected them.
Their predictions about the black hole’s ultimate mass and the heavy elements present in it are congruent with the findings from QSO1.
“It’s not conclusive, but it represents a compelling possibility,” Liu stated. “These observations suggest that established black hole formation theories may not fully explain the phenomenon, making the notion of a significant primordial black hole in the early universe increasingly plausible.”
Simulations indicate that primordial black holes could be a feasible origin for QSO1, according to Roberto Maiorino, a team member involved in the discovery of black holes. “The alignment of their predicted properties with those of QSO1, in terms of black hole mass, stellar mass, and chemical composition, is both intriguing and promising.”
However, standard models of primordial black holes typically predict that their maximum mass should be around a million solar masses, while Maiorino pointed out that QSO1 is 50 times larger. “Nevertheless, it’s plausible that these primordial black holes are densely concentrated, allowing them to merge and grow rapidly,” he noted.
A further challenge arises from the requirement that for a primordial black hole to initially collapse, a burst of high-energy radiation, like that from a nearby supernova, is essential; however, no potential sources have been identified near QSO1, according to Maiorino.
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A stunning view of Saturn and its rings as seen by the Cassini spacecraft
NASA/JPL-Caltech/Space Science Institute
New findings indicate that dust particles from Saturn’s rings are extended farther above and below the planet than previously assumed, implying that the rings might be shaped like large, dusty donuts.
The central structure of Saturn’s rings is remarkably thin, stretching out for tens of thousands of kilometers while only measuring around 10 meters in height, which gives Saturn its iconic look from Earth. However, variations exist, such as the outer E-ring that is inflated and replenished by ice ejected from Saturn’s moon Enceladus, which has an ocean beneath its surface.
In a recent study, Frank Postberg and his team at the Free University of Berlin examined data from NASA’s Cassini spacecraft, which completed 20 orbits in its final year of operation in 2017. During these orbits, the spacecraft took a steep trajectory through the rings, starting from a distance up to three times Saturn’s radius and moving downwards towards three times Saturn’s radius.
At the height of Cassini’s orbital path, its spectrometer, known as the Cosmic Dust Analyzer, detected hundreds of tiny rock particles with a chemical makeup similar to those found in the iron-deficient main rings. “This spectral type is genuinely unique within the Saturn system,” Postberg stated.
“While more material is near the surface of the rings, it is still astonishing that these particles are found so far above and below the ring surface,” he added.
Postberg and his collaborators determined that to reach heights greater than 100,000 kilometers from the main ring, the particles must be traveling at speeds exceeding 25 kilometers per second to break free from Saturn’s gravitational and magnetic forces.
Postberg noted that the exact mechanism achieving such speeds remains uncertain. The simplest explanation might be that a minor meteorite strikes the ring, scattering particles; however, this does not generate debris quickly enough.
New research suggests that when micrometeorites impact Saturn’s rings, they could generate sufficiently high temperatures to vaporize the rocks, implying that Saturn’s rings are older than once believed. Postberg and his team propose that this vaporized rock could exit the ring at much higher speeds than expected and then condense far from the planet.
It is surprising to find dust at such distances from the main ring. According to Frank Spahn from the University of Potsdam in Germany, who was not part of the study, this is significant because the particles in Saturn’s primary rings are small, collide rarely, and are sticky, leading to collisions that behave more like snowballs colliding than like billiard balls.
Micrometeorite impacts are prevalent throughout the solar system; hence, similar processes might be occurring on other ringed planets like Uranus. “If a ring of ice experiences a high-velocity impact, this phenomenon could be widespread; we would expect analogous dust rings above and below the other rings,” Postberg concluded.
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A novel genus and species of mid-Oligocene nimuravid has been identified from fossil remains unearthed in northern China. This finding enhances our understanding of Nimurabiidae in eastern Eurasia.
Reimagining the life of Taotienimravus songi in a Chinese painting style. Image credit: Yuefeng Song.
Taotienimravus songi inhabited what is now China during the mid-Oligocene period, around 28 million years ago.
This ancient species is part of the Nimuravidae family, an extinct group of saber-toothed hypercarnivores, often referred to as pseudosaber-toothed cats.
“Carnivora demonstrates the broadest range in body sizes among mammals, with the smallest weasel weighing roughly 50 g. Pinnipeds average over 3 tons,” stated Dr. Qigao Jiangzuo of the Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology, Chinese Academy of Sciences.
“With few exceptions, such as the bear family, large terrestrial carnivores, particularly those exceeding 20 kg, generally maintain a macrocarnivorous diet, targeting large prey of similar size or larger.”
“Often called pseudosabertooths, the Nimurabiidae represents one of the earliest diverging lineages within the Carnivora order, noted for their large size, hypercarnivorous craniodental features, and potentially macrocarnivorous behaviors,” the researchers added.
“The earliest fossils from this family, dating back to the mid-Eocene, belonged to highly specialized species exhibiting cat-like craniodental characteristics.”
“Nimuravidae underwent radiation during the Eocene to Oligocene, with the best-preserved specimens found primarily in North America, where numerous skulls and complete skeletons have been discovered.”
“Eurasia also contains numerous fossil remains, though they tend to be poorly preserved.”
“As the first lineage within Carnivora to develop large body sizes, this family is an excellent model for studying the evolution of early large carnivorous niches in an environmental context vastly different from that of today.”
The skeletal remains of Taotienimravus songi were discovered in the Qingshuiying Formation in northern China.
Specimen analysis indicates that this new species uniquely displays non-saber-toothed morphology with bone-cracking adaptations within the Nimuravidae family.
This animal likely engaged in a killing behavior distinct from other feline carnivores, possibly employing a tearing bite akin to that of hyenas.
“The defining characteristics of the new Nimuravid include exceptionally short and robust upper canine teeth along with a notably wide palatal area,” the paleontologists noted.
“The rostrum is exceedingly wide, probably the widest of any known Nimravid.”
“In contrast to many feline carnivores, the premolars do not diminish in size; rather, they increase, eliminating the gap between the canines and cheek teeth.”
“This contrasts with most feline carnivores, which almost invariably exhibit diastema.”
“We interpret this absence of a gap as an indicator of a strong canine bite, allowing for deep penetration into prey.”
Phylogenetic analysis positions Taotienimravus songi within the Nimravinae, creating a sister lineage to those in Europe and North America, such as Nimravus and Dinahelurus.
This clade shares a close relation to the European lineage encompassing Iofelis, Denailictis, and Quercyllus.
“The increase in size within Nimuravidae seems to align with the extinction of another carnivorous group, Oxyaenidae, during the Paleogene,” the researchers stated.
“The initial emergence of large carnivorous traits within the Carnivora order likely reflects competitive interactions driven by ecomorphic dynamics.”
“Nimuravidae effectively occupied ecological niches unavailable to Felidae, probably due to the lack of competition within Carnivora for much of their evolutionary history.”
“This study emphasizes the impact of both abiotic and biotic factors in shaping niche availability for these animals and underscores the need to discuss niche evolution and change within this framework.”
A study detailing this discovery was published on November 26, 2025, in Proceedings of the Royal Society B.
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Qigao Jiangzuo et al. 2025. A new ecomorph of the Nimravidae and the exploration of early large carnivores within the order Carnivora. Proc Biol Sci 292 (2059): 20251686; doi: 10.1098/rspb.2025.1686
By utilizing highly precise spectroscopic observations from the Near Infrared Imager and Slitless Spectrometer (NIRISS) on board the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope, astronomers have identified helium gas escaping from WASP-107b, a super-Neptunian exoplanet located in the Virgo constellation, approximately 212 light-years away.
Artist’s impression of exoplanet WASP-107b. Image credit: University of Geneva / NCCR PlanetS / Thibaut Roger.
WASP-107 is an active K-type main-sequence star situated roughly 212 light-years away in the Virgo constellation.
Discovered in 2017, WASP-107b is among the least dense known exoplanets, categorized by astrophysicists as a “superpuff” or “cotton candy” planet.
This exoplanet has an orbit significantly closer to its star than Earth is to the Sun, completing its orbit every 5.7 days.
While this planet features the coldest atmosphere recorded for an exoplanet, at 500 degrees Celsius (932 degrees Fahrenheit), it remains much hotter than Earth.
This elevated temperature results from tidal heating linked to its slightly elliptical orbit, which may help explain how WASP-107b can expand without invoking extreme formation theories.
“A planet’s atmosphere can sometimes dissipate into space,” explained Yann Carteret, an astronomer at the University of Geneva, alongside colleagues.
“On Earth, we lose just over 3 kg of matter (primarily hydrogen) every second.”
“This phenomenon, known as atmospheric escape, is especially significant for astronomers studying exoplanets in close proximity to their stars. Such planets experience intense heating, making them particularly vulnerable to this effect.”
With data from Webb’s NIRISS instrument, astronomers observed a substantial flow of helium within WASP-107b’s exosphere.
This helium cloud partially obscures the star’s light even before the planet transits in front of the star.
“Our atmospheric escape model indicates a helium flow both in front of and behind the planet, extending nearly 10 times the planet’s radius in the direction of its orbit,” Carteret stated.
Alongside helium, astronomers confirmed the existence of water and various trace chemicals (including carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and ammonia) in WASP-107b’s atmosphere.
These findings provide essential insights for piecing together the history of their formation and migration.
The research suggests that the planet initially formed at a greater distance from its current orbit before drifting closer to its star, which may account for the thickening of its atmosphere and gas loss.
“Atmospheric escape on Earth is too weak to have a significant impact on our planet,” noted Vincent Boullier, an astronomer at the University of Geneva.
“However, it could explain the absence of water on Venus, which is nearby.”
“Thus, understanding the mechanisms involved in this process is crucial, as it could erode the atmospheres of certain rocky exoplanets.”
Details of these findings were published in the journal Nature Astronomy.
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V. Krishnamurthy et al. Continuum helium absorption from both the leading and trailing atmospheric tails of WASP-107b. Nat Astron, published online on December 1, 2025. doi: 10.1038/s41550-025-02710-8
Artist’s impression of a coronal mass ejection in a star
Olena Shumahalo/Collingham et al.
Astronomers have successfully identified the first clear evidence of a coronal mass ejection (CME) from a star outside of our solar system. This CME, a plasma cloud from a star located 130 light-years away, was observed using radio telescopes here on Earth.
Coronal mass ejections happen when solar storms propel bubbles of magnetized plasma into space. While such eruptions from our Sun can create auroras on Earth, they can also be powerful enough to disrupt the atmosphere of Venus, which lacks a protective magnetic field.
For decades, scientists have detected signs of CMEs in far-off stars, but until now, they were unable to confirm that this material truly escapes the star’s gravitational and magnetic grip, rather than simply being temporarily displaced and then drawn back in.
Joseph Cullingham and his team at the Netherlands Institute for Radio Astronomy discovered these emissions utilizing the Low Frequency Array (LOFAR) radio telescope. The bursts, or radio waves, emitted by CMEs can only be captured when the ejection travels fully away from its origin, which is StKM 1-1262.
This research group also employed the XMM-Newton space-based X-ray telescope to assess the temperature, rotation, and luminosity of the host star.
Cullingham emphasized that this new evidence conclusively affirms prior speculations that CMEs indeed occur in distant stars. “Some will say we’ve seen indications for the last 30 years, and they’re right, but we’ve never been able to prove it definitively,” he remarked. “We are discussing mass being expelled and lost from the star, which has been a topic of ongoing debate.”
The radiation from these ejecta could pose a significant threat to potential life forms nearby. According to researcher Anthony Yates from Durham University in the UK, it is crucial to integrate insights on the frequency and intensity of CMEs from distant stars into models assessing the habitability of exoplanets. “If exoplanets were to exist, the repercussions for life there could be devastating,” he added.
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A supermassive black hole in the process of engulfing a massive star
California Institute of Technology/R. Hurt (IPAC)
Astronomers have made an astounding discovery of the brightest flare ever observed from a supermassive black hole. This flare was so intense that it can only be attributed to a tidal disruption event (TDE), where a colossal star was torn apart by a distant galaxy’s black hole, unleashing an extraordinary burst of energy that is still resonating.
Originating from an active galactic nucleus (AGN) — a supermassive black hole at the core of a galaxy consuming matter — this event is approximately 20 billion light-years from Earth, marking it as one of the most distant TDEs recorded. Notably, many TDEs remain undetected in AGNs due to the fluctuating brightness near these active black holes, which obscures the distinction between a TDE and other phenomena.
“For the last 60 years, we have understood AGNs to be highly volatile, but we lacked clarity about their variability,” explains Matthew Graham from the California Institute of Technology. “Currently, we are aware of millions of AGNs, yet their variability remains largely a mystery.” The event, dubbed “Superman” due to its remarkable brightness, holds the potential to unravel some of these cosmic enigmas.
Initially identified in 2018, astronomers speculated that Superman might merely be a bright explosion from a relatively nearby galaxy. It wasn’t until 2023 that subsequent observations unveiled its true distance and revealed that its brightness was significantly more intense than initially estimated.
This first flare enhanced AGN visibility to over 40 times greater and was 30 times more powerful than any other flare recorded from AGN. Graham and his research team concluded that the most plausible explanation is the disintegration of a massive star, possibly over 30 times the mass of the Sun.
All active supermassive black holes are surrounded by a region of infalling material known as an accretion disk. The matter density in this area is expected to yield substantial stars, although they have never been directly observed. “If our interpretation of this as a TDE is correct, it substantiates our hypothesis regarding the existence of these massive stars in such environments,” noted Graham.
“We once believed that active supermassive black holes simply housed gas disks that meandered about. However, this scenario is much more dynamic and active,” he adds. By examining the fading Superman, we may uncover a deeper understanding of its environment.
Moreover, it may lead to the establishment of a model for TDEs in AGNs, enhancing future detection efforts. “When a potential TDE is identified in an AGN, it remains uncertain whether it is merely an active galactic nucleus or if a true TDE is occurring, so having such unambiguous evidence is invaluable,” states Vivian Baldassare from Washington State University. “This will greatly aid in revealing future TDEs and understanding various AGN variability sources.”
Here’s a glimpse from the elusive newsletter of space-time. Each month, we let physicists and mathematicians share intriguing ideas stemming from the universe’s far corners. To join this exploration, Sign up for Losing Space and Time here.
“So you have written a book on black holes?”
The stranger sips their cocktail. We are mingling at a gathering, showcasing our conversations. I nodded slightly, mixing my piña colada.
“Well then,” the stranger continues, their gaze fixed intently on me. Is it truly the case that the entire universe resembles a black hole?”
It’s a familiar inquiry. This question often arises when I mention my years spent at observatories, engaging with scientists about our understanding of these cosmic giants.
People are naturally curious. The media frequently reports on distant galaxies coming into view as we gaze out into space. Videos sharing these concepts amass millions of views on platforms like YouTube. Though it seems like fiction, the scientific exploration of this notion began as early as 1972, when physicist Raj Kumar Pathria submitted a letter to Nature titled “The Universe as a Black Hole.” This topic has surfaced repeatedly since then.
So, is it feasible?
How to create a black hole
In simple terms, black holes are regions in space where gravity is so intense that not even light can escape.
These enigmatic entities were first mathematically described by astronomer Karl Schwarzschild during World War I. Amidst the sounds of battle on the Western Front, he was intrigued by how Albert Einstein’s groundbreaking general relativity predicted planetary dynamics and stellar structures.
Schwarzschild derived a formula detailing how space and time behave in ways that defy common experience, creating areas that would be termed black holes.
This discovery provided profound insights into black hole dynamics. It requires a particular mass, like that of a human, planet, or star, compressed within a volume determined by Schwarzschild’s formula, et voilà! A black hole emerges.
The critical volume varies with the object’s mass. For a human being, this volume is minuscule, a hundred times smaller than a proton. For Earth, it’s akin to a golf ball, while for the Sun, the volume resembles the size of downtown Los Angeles (approximately 6 km, or just under 4 miles).
Creating black holes is challenging. Under typical conditions, materials tend not to compress to incredibly high densities. Only extreme cosmic events, like the supernova explosion of a massive star, can compel matter to collapse into a black hole.
Interestingly, the black holes formed from dying stars come from extremely dense matter, whereas the much larger supermassive black holes at the centers of galaxies possess much lower densities. According to Schwarzschild’s equation, bigger black holes actually have less average density than air!
So what about the universe itself? Given that it consists largely of empty space, can such density relate to that of black holes?
Polarized light from the cosmic microwave background
ESA/Planck Collaboration
Measuring Space
With the help of Schwarzschild’s formula, astronomers can ascertain whether an object is a black hole. First, determine its mass. Next, ascertain the volume. If the object’s mass is contained within a volume smaller than that specified by Schwarzschild’s equation, it qualifies as a black hole.
Now, applying this concept to the entire universe requires knowledge of its mass and volume. However, determining the universe’s total size is impossible, as wandering with a cosmic ruler isn’t feasible. Instead, we can observe light and particles that come to us from the cosmos.
The oldest light we detect originates from the cosmic microwave background, which was produced a mere 380,000 years after the Big Bang. As the universe expands, the origin of this light is now astronomically distant. In fact, the total distance light has traveled since the Big Bang allows us to see an observable universe with a diameter of about 93 billion light years.
Through rigorous measurements over many years, astronomers estimate the mass contained within this volume to be approximately 1054 kg (that’s a 1 followed by 54 zeros).
Next, let’s calculate the hypothetical size of a black hole with this mass using Schwarzschild’s formula. After some calculations, it turns out that such a black hole would be roughly three times larger than the observable universe, measuring around 300 billion light years across. Thus, simply from the observed mass and size of the universe, it seems to satisfy the criteria of being a black hole.
“Wow,” exclaimed the curious stranger at the cocktail party, “Does this mean the universe is indeed a black hole?”
“Not so fast, my friend,” I replied. To grasp this question fully, we must delve deeper into the nature of black holes.
Into the Void
Black holes are peculiar. One of their odd characteristics is that while they appear to be fixed sizes externally, they are continuously evolving internally. According to Schwarzschild’s formula, the internal space elongates in one dimension while compressing in the other two simultaneously. (If a black hole spins, its interior behaves differently, but that’s a tale for another time.)
Cosmologists refer to this structure as anisotropy. The term derives from tropos, meaning “direction,” and iso, meaning “equal,” alongside an, denoting negation. The dynamics of anisotropy within a black hole leads to one spatial direction expanding while the other two contract. This phenomenon, along with the infamous spaghettification, relates to the tidal forces experienced by any object drawn in.
In contrast, the universe expands isotropically (uniformly in all directions). Doesn’t that sound akin to the interior of a black hole?
However, this doesn’t eliminate the possibility of a “universe as a black hole.” Both structures share two pivotal features: the event horizon and singularity.
The event horizon marks a boundary beyond which light cannot escape. For a black hole, this signifies a point of no return for anything crossing this threshold. In the universe, space expands so swiftly that light from exceedingly distant galaxies cannot reach us.
The event horizon of our universe can be thought of as an inverted version of a black hole’s event horizon. The former limits our observation from the furthest reaches of space, while the latter confines us from seeing beyond its depths.
This reciprocal relationship is also observable in the singularity—the point where density and curvature of spacetime become infinite. According to Schwarzschild’s formula, the singularity is a destination for unfortunate astronauts crossing a black hole’s event horizon. Conversely, our cosmological models indicate that singularities exist in the past—backtracking the universe’s expansion leads every space point closer together, intensifying density. In this context, the beginnings of the Big Bang culminate in a singularity. So, for black holes, this mathematical singularity lies in the future; for our expanding universe, it exists in the past. In both instances, the complexity indicated signifies just how little we understand about these dense, enigmatic points.
Sum it all up—the disparities in expansion, event horizon, and singularity—paint a convincing picture of our universe: it’s not a black hole. It just doesn’t fit that label!
“But wait,” the stranger interjects, feeling disheartened, “I thought we calculated that the universe met the criteria for a black hole.”
“While the computations are indeed accurate,” I explain, “we observe that mathematical relationships akin to Schwarzschild’s also align within the context of an expanding universe. This isn’t exclusively characteristic of black holes.”
It suggests that strange phenomena exist at the largest cosmic scales, beyond our observational reach with telescopes. However, according to models of non-rotating, expanding black holes, our universe lacks the definitive traits that categorize it as a black hole. What to make of it? Personally, I view it as a testament to gravity’s versatility, crafting magnificent structures that encapsulate the essence of time and space.
Life-sized camel engraving at Jebel Misma, Saudi Arabia
Sahout Rock Art and Archeology Project
The ancient people of the Arabian Desert left behind impressive rock art, including a large depiction of a camel, likely marking a water source.
Michael Petraglia, from Griffith University in Brisbane, along with his team, uncovered 176 sculptures across 62 panels in the Nehod Desert of Saudi Arabia in 2023. This collection includes not only life-size camel images but also 15 smaller camel sculptures and two camel footprints.
One particular rock art site featured a 3-meter-high dromedary located over 40 meters high on a cliff, making it impossible for the research team to safely access it without using a drone.
“Creating these sculptures must have been perilous,” Petraglia remarked. “Reaching that height was unfeasible.”
Besides camels, the rock art also illustrates other large animals such as ibex, horses, gazelles, and aurochs, highlighting what must have been a once mild climate. The team also uncovered carved human figures and masks.
“This isn’t merely about inscribing or altering the landscape,” Petraglia emphasizes. “These sculptures hold significant cultural value.”
Researchers propose that these images may have served as warnings to outsiders about the land’s occupation or indicated temporary water sources. Such findings contribute to the understanding of the extensive prehistoric habitation of Saudi Arabia.
Natural varnishes forming over the sculpture suggest it has aged for about 8,000 years. However, since the artwork itself couldn’t be dated directly, the team excavated sediments beneath the rock art panel.
Excavation site and discovery of sculpture tools beneath Jebel Arnaan’s rock art panel
Sahout Rock Art and Archaeology Project
There, the team found stone points, beads, and objects linking back to the late Neolithic people of the Levant, as well as tools that were likely used for sculpting. These artifacts date back around 12,800 to 11,400 years.
Excavations also took place near a small temporary lake called Playa, which ancient people would have depended on. Evidence from sediment and pollen confirms that this area was once far more verdant and hospitable.
Nonetheless, Petraglia believes the environment remains harsh, making it unlikely that people could establish permanent settlements in the area.
“These were likely transient communities, showcasing innovation,” he notes. “These were adept hunter-gatherers, far from mere survivalists.”
Cairo and Alexandria: Scientific Innovators of the Ancient World
Prepare for an unforgettable adventure in Cairo and Alexandria, Egypt’s two most legendary cities where ancient history intertwines with modern allure.
The significant move was the latest part of founder Daniel Ek’s strategy to withdraw catalogs from Spotify in protest against his €600 million (£520 million) investment in military AI company Helsing.
In June, Ek’s venture capital firm, Prima Materia, spearheaded a funding round for the defense tech firm. Helsing’s software leverages AI to analyze battlefield sensor and weapon system data, facilitating real-time military decision-making. Additionally, they plan to develop their own military drone, the HX-2. Ek also serves as chairman of Helsing.
The band has announced their participation in Music for Genocide, a new initiative where over 400 artists and record labels are removing their music from Israeli streaming platforms.
In a statement, the band expressed:
In light of the substantial investments made by CEOs in companies unrelated to the initiative and engaged in producing military drones and AI technologies for fighter jets, the band has made separate requests to labels to remove their music from Spotify across all regions.
We believe that the historical effectiveness of artists’ actions during apartheid in South Africa serves as a precedent for addressing the war crimes and genocide currently perpetrated by the state of Israel, which underscores the moral duties of artists.
Moreover, the financial strain on artists has now combined with moral and ethical burdens, ultimately affecting the hard-earned income of fans and the creative endeavors of musicians.
Enough is enough.
Alternative methods must be explored.
になったんです。 English: The first thing you can do is to find the best one to do. A spokesperson for Spotify stated, “Spotify and Helsing are entirely separate entities.”
They further clarified that Helsing “has no involvement in Gaza” and that their operations “are focused on protecting Europe against threats from Ukraine.”
In a statement, Helsing asserted, “Currently, Helsing’s technology is not deployed in war zones outside of Ukraine, which is misleading.”
“Our technology is utilized in European countries for deterrence and to defend against Russian assaults on Ukraine.”
Australian psych-rock group King Gizzard and Canadian post-rock band Godspeed You! Black Emperor, alongside US alternative acts Deerhoof and Manchester’s Wu Lyf, have also joined in this effort.
In contrast to these bands, large-scale attacks cannot showcase their music on popular platforms like Bandcamp. After transitioning to Bandcamp, King Gizzard’s extensive catalog filled the top 27 spots on the site.
The No No Music for Genocide initiative features artists such as MJ Lenderman, Amyl and the Sniffers, Rina Sawayama, Jockstrap, Keiyaa, John Glacier, Erika de Casier, Smerz, and Wednesday. These artists have either modified their release territories or requested geo-blocking for their music.
Massive Attack has amplified their message through Instagram posts.
In 1991, the tragedy of apartheid violence in South Africa was alleviated from a distance through public boycotts, protests, and artists withdrawing their work. Complicity with such a regime was deemed unacceptable. The same principle applies to the state of Israeli atrocities in 2025. Many musicians are responding to the recently launched @Filmworkers4Palestine campaign, endorsed by 4,500 filmmakers, actors, industry workers, and institutions, supporting issues from @bds.movement, @NomusicForGenocide, and more. We urge all musicians to convert their grief, anger, and artistic contributions into consistent, rational, and impactful actions, aiming to end the suffering imposed on Palestinians for far too long.
Massive Attack, alongside Brian Eno, kNeecap, and Fontaine DC, have established a coalition of artists advocating for Palestinian rights, defending musicians against the threat of silence or the risk of career setbacks enforced by organizations such as the Israeli UK Lawfare Institute (UKLFI), which reportedly led Bob Billan in a controversial performance.
This coalition informed The Guardian: “This unified action aims to provide solidarity to artists who endure daily in the face of genocide, yet are apprehensive about using their platforms to voice their concerns due to the pervasive censorship in the industry and highly organized external legal pressures.”
The new Google Data Centre in Essex is projected to emit over 500 tons of carbon dioxide annually.
Spanning 52 hectares (128 acres), the “Hyperscale Data Centre” in Thurrock is set to join the ranks of large-scale computers and AI infrastructures, pending planning approval.
This proposal was submitted by a subsidiary of Google’s parent company, Alphabet. Concerns about carbon emissions arose before a coordinated initiative by Donald Trump’s White House and Downing Street aimed at enhancing the UK’s AI capabilities. A multibillion-dollar investment deal with major tech firms from Silicon Valley is anticipated to be unveiled during the US president’s state visit, starting on Tuesday.
According to Keir Starmer’s Government, there is a forecast that AI will require 13 times the current processing power by 2035, leading to a rush in data centre construction to fulfill demand. The expectation is that this technological advancement will enhance the UK’s economic productivity. A collaboration is anticipated involving Nvidia, the largest AI chip manufacturer, and OpenAI, the creators of the ChatGPT AI assistant.
However, advocates argue that the influx of new large computer facilities will raise UK greenhouse gas emissions and strain limited electricity and water resources.
If approved, the Thurrock facility will encompass up to four data centers on “Grey Belt” land, some of which has been used for speedway events and stock car racing. This will contribute to a net increase of 568,727 tons of greenhouse gas emissions (carbon dioxide equivalent) annually at operational status. For further details, refer to the planning document reviewed by the Guardian.
According to the United Nations International Civil Aviation Organization, this is roughly equivalent to 500 flights from Heathrow to Malaga each week, as calculated by the carbon calculator. Google’s planning application contends that this will not significantly impact the UK carbon budget, a view challenged by campaigners.
A spokesperson from FoxGlove, a group advocating for fair technology, stated, “The facility planned by Google in Essex will generate emissions significantly higher than those produced by an international airport.” This reflects a broader trend of imposing ‘hyperscale’ data centers across the UK, prioritizing profit over environmental health.
“The Starmer government must resist the influence of big tech and advocate for the UK populace,” they continued. “Otherwise, we will all bear the consequences of expensive energy bills, dwindling water supplies, and the effects of a warming planet.”
The UK government asserts that data centers will not significantly affect the UK carbon budget due to an ambitious objective to decarbonize the electricity grid. However, there are concerns that without significant investment in new data centers, the UK risks falling behind international competitors like France, jeopardizing its ambitions in national security, economic growth, and AI.
Other noteworthy data center initiatives include a £10 billion project at a former coal-fired power plant in Blythe, Northumberland, which received planning approval in March. This facility is positioned at the core of a major contract involving Nvidia and OpenAI. Over the weekend, there were also reports that Google was in discussions regarding a large data center in Teesside.
Global consultancy Bain & Company reported on Monday that AI and data centers could contribute to 2% of global emissions and 17% of industrial emissions by 2035, with the most significant impact occurring in nations where fossil fuels dominate energy generation.
Google declined to comment on the planning application for the Thurrock site, while Teesside stated that they “do not comment on rumors or speculation.”
Ganymede, one of Jupiter’s moons, has the potential to act as a significant dark matter detector, with upcoming space missions possibly unveiling unique dark matter craters on its ancient terrain.
Researchers typically seek dark matter by looking for lightweight particles that seldom interact with normal matter, employing large, insulated underground detectors. Alternatively, another category of dark matter particles could grow from the size of a basketball to that of an asteroid, but these are infrequent and interact rarely with conventional matter. To detect these hefty dark matter particles, a detector of lunar or planetary scale is necessary to account for their scarcity.
William Derocco from the University of Maryland has proposed that Ganymede, the solar system’s largest moon, may hold clues to these large dark matter particles. His research indicates that they could create a unique crater on the moon’s icy surface, preserved for millions of years due to its stable geology.
Derocco estimates the extent to which these giant dark matter particles penetrate Ganymede’s thick ice layers, finding that they reach the subterranean oceans, fostering unique minerals deeper than a standard asteroid might.
Future missions, such as NASA’s Europa Clipper and ESA’s JUICE, might be able to identify these dark material craters from orbit. Derocco believes these features will be relatively small and distinct, separated from other geological formations. He suggests that “if an underground intrusion radar is used, it may reveal this melted ice column extending down through the ice.”
Utilizing a moon-sized dark matter detector could help identify particles that elude detection on Earth, according to Zachary Picker from UCLA. He states, “Experiments on Earth struggle to find dark matter particles the size of a bowling ball. Particles the size of a refrigerator or car have interactions that are too infrequent.”
The proposal is thorough and well-reasoned, as noted by Bradley Cabana from the University of Cantabria in Spain. “There’s no compelling physical rationale to assume the existence of such massive dark matter particles,” he states. “It’s about exploring all possibilities.” He describes these as extraordinary objects, incredibly dense and held together by formidable forces from obscure sectors.
When examining the colossal dinosaur skull, it becomes evident that some species prefer to shred their prey, while others deliver bone-crushing attacks.
Andre Lowe and Emily Rayfield from the University of Bristol, UK, studied the skulls of 18 Mesozoic theropod species. This varied group, including T. Rex, Giganotosaurus, and Spinosaurus, walked on two legs and was characterized by large heads and razor-sharp teeth.
Nevertheless, despite their similarities, each dinosaur’s feeding behavior cannot be generalized. Eric Snively from Oklahoma State University notes that Giganotosaurus, with its “thin sawtooth teeth” reminiscent of a cross between a great white shark and a Komodo Dragon, was designed for tearing away large chunks of flesh from its prey. In contrast, the semi-aquatic Spinosaurus had a unique anatomy likened to a heron supported by a dachshund body and equipped with teeth similar to those of crocodiles.
Using a 3D scan of the skull’s surface, the researchers explored the bite mechanics of these dinosaurs by employing a method to model bridge stress. By juxtaposing the skull muscle structures of each dinosaur with those of modern relatives like birds and crocodiles, they learned that Giganotosaurus and Spinosaurus had significantly weaker bites compared to the more recent Tyrannosaurus, which utilized a robust, shorter skull to exert substantial “bone-grabbing” force. “Ultimately, Tyrannosaurus showed more emphasis on the skull than we anticipated, thus indicating harder chewing,” Snively remarked.
“The feeding strategies of these apex predators are more intricate than previously thought,” states Fion Waisum Ma from the Beipiao Palace Museum in China. “T-Rex existed during the late Cretaceous period, a time when competition for hunting was intense,” she adds.
when Elon Musk encouraged Germans to support the far-right Alternative for Germany (AFD) in last year’s election, Manu Heuer, a resident of the small town where the billionaire established Tesla’s European production center, expressed her concerns.
“How can you engage in business with individuals who endorse right-wing extremism?” she questioned Dietimar Wudike, the Social Democrat leader in Brandenburg, who backed the creation of the Tesla Giga Factory in Grunheide.
Heuer described Woidke’s “unfortunate, yet predictable” response, where he dismissed the claim. “He claimed he didn’t know Musk personally, as if that were a valid excuse,” she noted.
Manu Heuer has sought to question local politicians regarding Elon Musk’s backing of the far-right Alternative for Germany party. Photo: Imago/Alamy
She co-founded Citizens’ Initiatives to develop a vibrant community on a sandy plain southwest of Berlin to oppose plans announced in 2019. At the time, there was significant concern regarding the potential environmental effects of factories on the local pine forests and groundwater.
Recently, it is Musk’s politics that have raised alarms. Not only did he notably endorse far-right European parties, but he also appeared to make a Nazi salute at a rally following Donald Trump’s inauguration.
Elon Musk will inspect the vehicle when production commences at the Tesla facility in Grunheide. Photo: Patrick Pleul/AFP/Getty Images
Meanwhile, Tesla’s sales have declined, particularly in Europe, where new vehicle sales have dropped for the fifth consecutive month, despite overall growth in the electric vehicle market.
Heiko Basin, another member of the civic initiative, expressed a sense of schadenfreude. “We had placed our hopes in this,” the carpenter shared during a recent walk in the shadows of the expansive Grunheide factory.
As sales continue to drop, factories face challenges. Production shifts for the Y model have decreased from 3-2 units per day. IG Metal, which has recruited hundreds of workers despite Tesla’s resistance, urged the company to consider placing employees in “Kurzarbeit.”
Regional media has reported that Tesla is relocating to carriers at a former East German airport, approximately 60 km (37 miles) away.
Musk’s apparent Nazi salute elicited shock and horror in Germany, but it went largely unnoticed in Grunheide until the campaign group projected an image on the facade of the Tesla factory with the Nazi-related word “heil” provocatively placed in front of the Tesla logo.
The outcry from the incident was palpable on the factory floor, as workers told tabloid Berlin Klier. “In Tesla Germany, they tried to maintain distance from (Musk) and remained silent,” one worker noted. Now, they could no longer ignore their ties.
Workers are hard to reach and are often compelled to sign non-disclosure agreements (NDAs). Yet, on Khunnu, a work portal allowing employees to express their thoughts anonymously, a Tesla worker shared:
Almut, a local resident, remarked that politicians tout the benefits Tesla has brought to the area, yet “fail to acknowledge the troubling reality that it subsidizes the wealthiest individual in the world who bears no social responsibility for what occurs here.”
She said locals often joke about what might replace the factory if Tesla were to fail. “Ammunition factories? Prisons? In a way, those seem like decent alternatives,” she quipped. The only positive contribution she could recall from Tesla was the robotic lawnmower it donated to a local soccer club.
While local politicians in Grunheide were keen to highlight the advantages of the factory, some residents voiced concerns about the environmental effects of light pollution and excessive water consumption. Photo: Michele Tantussi/Getty Images
Just two weeks prior to the salute, Musk publicly supported the AFD during an hour-long discussion with co-leader Alice Weidel, touching on topics like Hitler, solar energy, and German bureaucracy. Musk mentioned that Tesla had to submit a staggering 25,000-page form to establish the Grunheide factory. Notably, the AFD has vehemently opposed the Tesla facility, citing concerns over US-led turbo-capitalism and the erosion of workers’ rights. “People need to get behind the AFD,” Musk stated.
For Grunheide residents who oppose Musk, their concerns are compounded by the factory’s impact on rural areas characterized by forests, lakes, and rivers.
New bike lanes and roads necessitate the clearing of large swaths of pine forests, threatening the area’s already precarious drinking water resources and officially declared drought zones.
Tesla Giga Factory with forests in the backdrop. Photo: Sean Gallup/Getty Images
The expansive factory complex, covering 300 hectares (740 acres), is set for expansion by another 100 hectares under a plan submitted by the Mayor of Grunheide, despite a local referendum where 62% of voters voiced opposition.
Supporters highlight the 11,000 jobs created by the factories and the positive impact on the local economy in a region previously governed by the Communist Party. Many young residents look forward to more frequent train services to Berlin, improved supermarket stocks, and the elevation of their hometowns alongside Tesla’s other locations in Shanghai, Nevada, and Austin as examples of “green capitalism.” It is said that an invitation to the “Rave Cave” Technodance Space Mask was sought within the factory complex.
For job openings, the Tesla recruitment page emphasizes that diversity is central to its business model, listing numerous positions available from shift managers to maintenance technicians.
Nevertheless, even among those who have previously expressed enthusiasm for Tesla, sentiments have turned cold. Formerly, a group of local teenagers routinely flew drones over the construction site and proudly shared their videos on YouTube. “Even though I’m no longer anonymous about Tesla/Elon, I’m happy to discuss publicly about them,” one teen texted to the Guardian.
There has been no response from the company regarding interview requests or access to the factory.
Arne Christani, the Mayor of Grunheide and a steadfast Musk supporter, expressed confidence that Tesla will thrive in Grunheide. He mentioned he was unfazed by Musk’s statements or actions. “We must differentiate between what happens in the United States and here in Grunheide,” he stated.
Heuer, living 9 km from the factory, remains hopeful of seeing a starry sky from her garden once again. “Since the factory was built, it’s been challenging due to light pollution from the round-the-clock operation,” she remarked, sharing before and after photos on her phone.
New records for black holes have transformed our understanding of the universe’s most extreme entities.
The Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) began its groundbreaking detection of gravitational waves—ripples in the fabric of spacetime—ten years ago, unveiling nearly 100 black hole collisions. On November 23, 2023, Rigo announced receiving a signal described as “an extraordinary interpretation that defies explanation.” According to Sophie Binnie from the California Institute of Technology, her team ultimately concluded that it corresponded to the largest black hole merger ever recorded.
One of the merging black holes was approximately 100 times the mass of the sun, while the other neared 140 solar masses. Previous records featured black holes that were almost half as massive, primarily due to earlier mergers. Team member Mark Hannam from Cardiff University, UK, emphasized that these black holes were not only immense but also spinning at such high speeds that they challenged mathematical models of the universe regarding their formation.
According to Hannam, the masses of these black holes exceed those typically formed from the collapse of aging stars, suggesting they likely resulted from earlier mergers between smaller black holes. “It’s possible that multiple mergers have occurred,” he notes.
“A decade ago, we were astonished to find black holes around 30 solar masses. Now, we observe black holes over 100 solar masses,” adds Davide Gerosa from the University of Bicocca in Milan, Italy. He mentions that gravitational wave signals from these large, quickly rotating black holes are shorter and consequently more challenging to detect. Binnie presented her findings at the Edoardo Amaldi Conference on Gravitational Waves in Glasgow, England, on July 14.
Both Hannam and Binnie emphasize that future observations of similarly remarkable mergers are essential to further decipher these new signals, including unraveling the origins of black holes. As upgrades progress, LIGO is expected to detect more cosmic record-breakers. Yet, in May, the Trump administration proposed halving resources at the facility, which, in Hannam’s opinion, could render capturing new signals exceedingly difficult.
Artistic impressions of the moa, one of the largest extinct birds
Christopher Cree/Colossal Biosciences
Colossal Biosciences has unveiled its ambitious project to “bring back” the New Zealand MOA, one of the most remarkable extinct birds in history, although critics claim the objectives may be scientifically unfeasible.
The MOA was the only fully known flightless bird, with no close relatives like emus. Nine species once inhabited New Zealand, including the turkey-sized bush moa (Anomalopteryx didiformis). The two largest varieties, the South Island Giant MOA (Dinornis robustus) and the North Island Giant MOA (Dinornis novaezealandiae), both stood at an imposing 3.6 meters tall and weighed around 230 kilograms.
By the mid-15th century, all MOA species were believed extinct, following the arrival of the Polynesian people, now known as Māori, in New Zealand around 1300.
Colossal has partnered with the Ngāi Tahu Research Centre, an indigenous institution affiliated with the University of Canterbury in New Zealand, along with filmmakers such as Peter Jackson and the Canterbury Museum. These collaborations are vital as Colossal aims to extract DNA and reconstruct the genomes of all nine species of MOA.
Similar to Colossal’s other “de-extinction” initiatives, this project involves modifying the DNA of currently existing species. Andrew Pask, a scientific advisor at the University of Melbourne, notes that the MOA’s closest living relative is the South American Tinamou, although it is considerably smaller.
This suggests the project may need to utilize the Australian EMU (Dromaius novaehollandiae) instead. As Pask explains, “Emus have large embryos and eggs, which are crucial for recreating the MOA.”
Previously, Colossal announced its so-called “de-extinction” of the thylacine. This endeavor has faced skepticism from external experts who argue that the animal is essentially a modified gray wolf. Pask insists that the MOA project involves greater genetic manipulation.
“With the MOA, we are making a concerted effort to accurately reassemble the species,” he states. “When this animal walks the Earth again, we will have no doubt it is a true MOA. It will be an engineered version of the original.”
The specific habitat for these reintroduced animals is still unclear. Mike Stevens from the Ngāi Tahu Research Centre emphasizes that both his organization and the local Māori community must fully grasp the “feasibility and ethical implications” of Colossal’s efforts. “Only after this discussion can we consider how and where the ‘giant MOA’ will fit into our world,” he mentions, raising numerous profound ethical and practical questions that need careful consideration before proceeding. Technology must prove its worth.
Conversely, Philip Seddon from the University of Otago believes that whatever Colossal creates won’t truly be a MOA and may exhibit distinctly different traits. He highlights that while Tinamous are the closest relative of the MOA, their evolutionary paths diverged over 60 million years ago.
“Ultimately, Colossal’s approach utilizes genetic engineering to produce GMOs that resemble an extinct species without genuinely solving contemporary global issues,” he asserts.
Pask vigorously challenges this viewpoint, arguing that insights gained from this de-extinction endeavor are crucial for the preservation of current endangered species.
Jamie Wood from the University of Adelaide believes this project may yield “valuable new perspectives on MOA biology and evolution.” However, he cautions that if Colossal employs similar methodologies to those used in the dire wolf project, they could struggle to persuade the public that the resultant creature can be regarded as a true MOA.
“While they may possess certain MOA-like characteristics, they are unlikely to behave as the originals did or occupy the same ecological roles.”
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Below the western United States lies a significant, untapped source of clean energy. According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), this potential is substantial.
This research is part of a long-term initiative to chart the nation’s geothermal capabilities, particularly focusing on the expansive basin regions that encompass Nevada, Utah, California, Idaho, Oregon, and Wyoming.
USGS projects that these geologically active states hold the potential to generate reliable and consistent geothermal energy of up to 135 gigawatts, provided new technologies can harness this underground resource. To put this in perspective, the typical U.S. household consumes about 1 kilowatt of electricity continuously, meaning that 135 gigawatts can fulfill the stable energy demands of nearly 135 million homes.
“The evaluation of USGS energy resources is geared towards the future,” stated Dr. Sarah Ryker, the acting director of USGS. “We emphasize undiscovered resources that have yet to be fully explored and developed, starting our work in the Great Basin due to its geothermal activity history.”
Currently, geothermal energy comprises less than 1% of the electricity in the U.S., predominantly sourced from conventional hydrothermal systems, where naturally heated water rises through permeable rocks.
Nonetheless, USGS findings suggest a much richer energy reservoir exists. This indicates that heat is trapped in dense, impermeable rock formations buried deep underground.
Geothermal systems generate electricity by circulating and heating liquids – USGS
To access these “enhanced geothermal systems” (EGS), engineers must drill deeper, sometimes reaching depths over 6 km (3.7 miles), fracturing the rock to allow water to circulate and capture heat.
This heated water can then be raised back to the surface to produce electricity, offering a constant, weather-independent energy source.
To estimate the potential energy available, USGS researchers have combined underground temperature maps, heat flow data, and sophisticated techniques for measuring extraction efficiency and energy conversion. They collaborated with the US Department of Energy (DOE), state geological surveys, and academic institutions nationwide.
Dr. Ryker stressed that this research offers a multitude of benefits beyond just energy generation. “Natural resources play a vital role in sustaining the national economy, and historically, we have advanced the technology for mapping and characterizing these resources.”
The large basins of Nevada and surrounding states showcase potential geothermal energy, indicated by colors ranging from green to red – USGS
However, advancing EGS technology presents substantial challenges. Although pilot projects have shown promise within the Great Basin, commercial-scale fortified geothermal plants are not yet operational in the U.S.
One of the primary hurdles is cost, which the U.S. Department of Energy aims to address through the Enhanced Geothermal Shot™, a program targeting a 90% reduction in technological costs by 2035.
The USGS’s efforts are not limited to the Great Basin. The agency plans to shift its focus to the Williston Basin in North Dakota, another region that may hold geothermal potential.
Should these efforts succeed, geothermal energy could emerge as a crucial component of America’s low-carbon future.
This year’s unexpected gem, Blue Prince, is a true marvel in the realm of video games. It features an architectural puzzle set within the enchanting mansion inherited from quirky relatives. The estate is brimming with mysteries, allowing you to choose from various rooms each time you reach a door. The game delves into the dynamics of the house and our existence, evoking feelings of nostalgia and melancholy, making our surroundings appear more austere.
Edison Mansion, Maniac Mansion
Photo: Lucasfilm Games
This Addams Family-inspired Queen Anne mansion boasts a sharp façade and ominous windows. Skywalker Ranch adds an intriguing twist to this early LucasArts adventure, where strange occurrences keep you on your toes, and the demons you encounter reveal unexpected charm. While it may not be the ideal living situation, the residents make for unforgettable neighbors.
Spencer Mansion, Resident Evil
Photo: Capcom
Nestled amidst the ominous Arkray Mountains by Raccoon City, the Spencer Mansion resembles what might happen if a movie villain dabbled in architecture. This expansive estate features Second Empire Style elements with oil paintings, vintage furniture, and beautifully concealed rooms. However, prospective buyers should be aware that it is essentially a sprawling trap filled with menacing puzzles and creatures.
Finch House, What Remains of Edith Finch
Photo: Giant Sparrow
Inspired by the Alaska Goose Creek Tower, Finch House serves as a tribute to the tragic family that once resided there, which is why the bedroom feels like a sealed museum. The chaotic stack of floors creates an ambiance reminiscent of navigating a pop-up book. Living here may seem appealing, but you’ll need a sturdy support for every step. On the bright side, the bookshelves are loaded with classics like Gravity’s Rainbow, Slaughterhouse-Five, and House of Leaves, perfect for indulging in postmodern literature.
Jetset Willy, Mansion
Photo: YouTube
Among the most remarkable video game homes, this peculiar mansion finds itself in disarray after indulging in a potent drink. The rooms evoke the dizzying sensation of a hangover, with chaotic elements like stomped boots and a toilet seat in disarray. The beauty of this iconic platformer lies in its blend of domesticity and surreal horror, where boundless bedrooms and an ominous fridge heighten the surreal experience. Intriguingly, there’s even an entrance to Hades within the floor plan.
Island Cottage, Animal Crossing: New Horizons
Photo: Nintendo
Nintendo’s dreamlike examination of capitalism approaches the essence of a dollhouse for adults, encouraging players to personalize their own living spaces. Beyond selecting wallpaper and incorporating indoor plants, you can even fill the atmosphere with music played by local animals. While this may seem whimsical, the pressure to meticulously curate one’s environment represents a middle-aged inclination, highlighting a reality where one cannot access such a home without being tethered to a hefty mortgage.
Snow Peak Ruins, Zelda: Twilight Princess
Photo: Nintendo
What’s your favorite Zelda dungeon? The charmingly snowy ruins can be considered the most beloved aspect of Twilight Princess, despite the game boasting superior puzzles and greater rewards for defeating adversaries. This warm refuge among the mountains stands out as the coziest space in the series, with a welcoming contrast to the frigid outdoors, enhanced by the presence of two gentle yetis who tend to a bubbling pot of stew.
Croft Manor, Tomb Raider
Photo: Square Enix
Lara Croft’s Country House initially served as a tutorial zone, but it quickly developed into a distinctive aspect of the series. Croft is not merely an acrobat but an enigma. Her abode features strangely proportioned rooms, characteristic of PS1 titles when they ventured indoors, alongside a hedge maze and even a gym. Interestingly, Croft has a dedicated room for her harpsichord, and her eternal butler, weary and trapped, makes for an amusing addition.
Luigi’s Mansion
Photo: Nintendo
Luigi’s Mansion stands as the first game to reveal the personalities of Nintendo’s plumbers. Interestingly, this is not solely because they traverse vibrant, whimsical realms, but because Luigi confronts the mundane chaos of domestic life. Although the mansion is teeming with ghosts, it retains the charm of bookshelves, rich carpets, ornate lighting, and a suitably-sized kitchen, making it the ideal refuge amidst the hustle of the Mario universe, encapsulating a serene representation of a singular location.
Lighthouse, Beyond Good and Evil
Photo: Mobygames
Jade, a photojournalist rather than a soldier, embarks on an adventure in a fantasy realm reminiscent of Europe instead of the US or Japan. Instead of conventional mansions or high-tech bases, she calls a lighthouse home along the foggy coast of a tranquil water world. This lighthouse serves as both a refuge and an orphanage, and it’s delightful to uncover the intricate details incorporated by the designers, from playful chaos in Jad’s living quarters to crayon artworks.
Botany Manor
Photo: White Thorn Game
Players are drawn into the charm of Botany Manor through engaging puzzles, focusing on identifying the right conditions for various flowers to thrive. However, the beauty of the surroundings ensures that players linger until the game reaches its conclusion. The setting resonates with the elegance of early 20th-century England, situated somewhere between the worlds of Jeeves and Flora Poste, with colors and calmness evoking a sense of tranquility amidst the quirky pottery decorating the cliffs.
Carnovas Estate, Phantasmagoria
Photo: Sierra
When novelist Adrian Delaney retreats to this secluded New England estate for inspiration, she revels in grand fireplaces, maze-like corridors, and real Gothic chapels. However, her enthusiasm wanes upon discovering the sinister presence looming over the estate, intent on dispatching her, resident by resident. Heavily influenced by the genius of Edgar Allan Poe, adventure designer Roberta Williams crafted this mansion into the epitome of gore and scattered horror—a must-see for fans of the genre.
Martin Köhler in front of the Maka Rahi Boulder in Tonga
Martin Köhler/University of Queensland
The massive 1,200 tonne boulders of Tonga were carried inland as towering waves of 50 meters crashed against a 30-meter-high cliff.
“This is not just an ordinary boulder. It holds the title of the largest corrugated boulder found on a cliff and ranks as the third largest boulder globally, signifying that an immense force was needed to propel it from such a height,” said Martin Köhler from the University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.
Locally known as Maka Rahi, which translates to a large rock, this boulder had yet to be studied by scientists.
During fieldwork in Tonga in July 2024, the villagers pointed the researchers towards some intriguing rocks they might want to examine.
“We never anticipated discovering such a substantial rock at the finale of our field studies. It dawned on us quickly that we had stumbled upon a significant find,” Kohler explained.
Measuring 14 meters in length, 12 meters in width, and approximately 7 meters in height, it was described as a “remarkable” boulder, composed of limestone coral reef horn rec rocks. Previous satellite images missed this potential Monami Boulder, as vegetation had grown atop it, with surrounding forests extending into the woodland.
Upon observing the boulder, researchers identified a massive gouge believed to have been created at the cliff’s top, approximately 200 meters from the ocean.
The team utilized computer models to ascertain how this colossal boulder ended up above sea level.
Shifting it necessitated a wave with a minimum height of 50 meters and a duration of 90 seconds, implying it moved at a velocity exceeding 22 meters per second over a minute and a half, Kohler stated. Such a colossal tsunami is relatively localized and is thought to stem from nearby underwater landslides.
Dating indicated the boulder’s age to be 6,891 years, well before the settlement of humans on the island.
“It’s hard for me to fathom a 50-meter wave since I’ve never witnessed or heard of such massive waves before,” Kohler remarked. “However, the logic follows easily when one considers this enormous boulder positioned 200 meters inland on a 39-meter-high cliff.”
Only two rocks deposited by the tsunami have been found on land: one weighing 3,400 tons and another weighing 1,500 tons.
Significant amber deposits found in northern Japan may have been propelled from the forest into the sea by tsunamis occurring between 116 million and 114 million years ago during the early Cretaceous period. This is according to a recent study conducted by geological surveys at Japan and Chuo University.
Amber deposits from Sichuan Quarry in Hokkaido, northern Japan. Image credit: Kubota et al. , doi: 10.1038/s41598-025-96498-2.
Identifying traces of ancient tsunamis can be challenging, as the powerful waves tend to reshape coastlines. The sediment left behind often resembles deposits created by other high-energy events, like storms.
Nevertheless, amber, which originates on land and is then transported to the sea, acts as a historical record of tsunami occurrences, illuminating the physical processes influencing sediment movement during these events.
“A tsunami is a destructive ocean wave primarily caused by significant changes in submarine or coastal crust, as well as impacts from asteroids,” explains Dr. Aya Kubota, a researcher at geological surveys at Japan and Chuo University.
“They have been extensively studied during the Holocene (the last 11,700 years) due to their relevance in disaster prevention.”
“Aside from asteroid sediments, accurately identifying ancient tsunamis before major vegetation growth is extremely difficult for two key reasons.”
“First, coastal tsunami deposits are easily eroded in their dynamic environments. Second, well-defined criteria for identifying tsunami deposits have not been established, as they can be difficult to differentiate from other high-energy coastal events, such as cyclones.”
In their research, Dr. Kubota and colleagues examined amber-rich silica deposits from the Shiko River Quarry in northern Hokkaido, which formed during the early Cretaceous period around 115 million years ago.
Using fluorescence imaging, the authors discovered that the amber samples exhibited clear deformation in what is known as the flame structure. This occurs when the amber is still pliable at the time of deposition, allowing it to change shape before solidifying.
This suggests that a substantial quantity of amber was swiftly transported from land into the open ocean due to the backwash from one or more tsunamis, experiencing minimal exposure to air.
The amber then settled at the seabed, becoming covered with a layer of silt, which helped to preserve it.
“Other terrestrial sediments carried into open water could be instrumental in studying significant ancient catastrophic events, such as tsunamis,” the researchers concluded.
Their study was published in the journal Scientific Reports on May 15th.
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A. Kubota et al. 2025. Amber, a deep-sea sediment from the Cretaceous period, reveals a massive tsunami. Sci Rep 15, 14298; doi:10.1038/s41598-025-96498-2
The discovery of this superwalled black hole was made possible by the newly identified tidal disruption event, AT2024TVD.
Tidal Disruption Event AT2024TVD. Image credits: NASA/CXC/University of California, Berkeley/Yao et al. /ESA /STSCI /HST /J. DEPASQUALE.
“A tidal disruption event (TDE) occurs when stars are either stretched or ‘spaghettified’ by the immense gravitational forces of black holes,” explained UC Berkeley researcher Dr. Yuhanyao.
“The remnants of the torn-apart stars are pulled into a circular orbit around the black hole.”
“This process creates high-temperature shocks and emissions that can be detected in ultraviolet and visible light.”
The AT2024TVD event enabled astronomers to utilize the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope to identify elusive wandering supermassive black holes, supported by observations from NASA’s Chandra X-ray Observatory.
Interestingly, these 1 million rogue black holes are often found to be supermassive and actively consuming surrounding material.
Among the roughly 100 TDEs recorded by the Light Sky Survey, this marks the first instance of an offset TDE being identified.
In fact, at the center of the host galaxy lie ultra-massive black holes differing in mass by 100 million solar masses.
Hubble’s optical precision indicates that the TDE is located just 2,600 light-years from the larger black holes at the galaxy’s core.
This distance is comparable to just one minute of the span between our Sun and the central ultra-massive black hole of the Milky Way.
The larger black hole expels energy as it accumulates material, classifying it as an active galactic nucleus.
Interestingly, the two supermassive black holes exist within the same galaxy but are not gravitationally linked like a binary pair.
Smaller black holes can potentially spiral toward the center of the galaxy, eventually merging with their larger counterparts.
However, at this point, they are too distant to be bound by gravity.
“AT2024TVD is the first offset TDE captured through optical observations, opening up new possibilities for studying this elusive population of black holes in future surveys,” Dr. Yao remarked.
“Currently, theorists have not focused extensively on offset TDEs.
“I believe this discovery will drive scientists to search for more instances of this type of event.”
The black holes responsible for AT2024TVD are traversing the bulges of gigantic galaxies.
Black holes periodically consume stars every tens of thousands of years, lying dormant until their next “meal” arrives.
How did the black hole become displaced from the center? Previous studies suggest that three-body interactions can eject lower-mass black holes from a galaxy’s core.
This theory may apply here, given its proximity to the central black hole.
“If a black hole undergoes a three-body interaction with two other black holes in the galaxy’s core, it can remain bound to the galaxy and orbit the central region,” explained Dr. Yao.
Another possibility is that these black holes are remnants from a smaller galaxy that merged with the host galaxy over a billion years ago.
In such a case, the black hole could eventually merge with the central active black hole in the distant future. As of now, astronomers remain uncertain about its trajectory.
“There is already substantial evidence that the galaxy will increase its TDE rate, but the presence of a second black hole associated with AT2024TVD suggests a past merger has occurred.”
Recent research by Curtin University reveals that an ancient influence, previously believed to have occurred 1.2 billion years ago, actually took place 990 million years ago, leading to the formation of the STAC FADA member. This discovery corrects the dating of some of the UK’s oldest non-marine microfossils and their significance in the timeline of eukaryotic colonization on land.
STAC FADA member. Image credit: Tony Prave.
“We utilized small zircon crystals as geological ‘time capsules’ to accurately date the impact at 990 million years ago,” stated Professor Chris Kirkland from Curtin University.
“These tiny crystals recorded precise moments of impact, some transforming into the rare mineral Reidite, which forms under extreme pressure.”
“This provided irrefutable evidence that the meteorite strike initiated the STAC FADA deposit.”
“When a meteorite strikes, it partially resets the atomic clocks within the zircon crystal. Although these ‘broken clocks’ can’t generate dates, they developed a model to reconstruct timing, affirming the impact’s occurrence 990 million years ago.”
The impact events coincided with the earliest emergence of freshwater eukaryotes, the ancient precursors to plants, animals, and fungi.
“The new date indicates that these life forms in Scotland appeared roughly at the same time as the meteorite impact,” Professor Kirkland remarked.
“This presents intriguing questions about whether significant impacts could have affected environmental conditions, potentially influencing early ecosystems.”
“The impact crater has yet to be located, but this study has gathered additional clues that may eventually uncover its position.
“Understanding the timeline of meteorite impacts will enable us to explore their potential effects on Earth’s environment and the diversification of life beyond the oceans.”
The team’s findings will be published in the journal Geological.
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CL Kirkland et al. The impact of Scottish meteors 100 million years ago. Geological Published online on April 28, 2025. doi: 10.1130/g53121.1
Bolivian “zombie” volcanoes are displaying signs of activity; however, scientists assure that the risk of an eruption is minimal at this time.
The majestic summit of the Central Andes, Uturuncu, last erupted around 250,000 years ago.
For many years, researchers have noted unusual occurrences, including minor earthquakes and distinctive “sombrero” ground deformation patterns. The center of the volcano is gradually rising while the surrounding land sinks.
The cause of this phenomenon has yet to be determined.
A recent study published in the journal PNAS has identified pressure pockets, indicating that heated liquids and gases are still in motion beneath Uturuncu, causing surface deformations.
An international team of researchers from China, the UK, and the US has leveraged seismic data from over 1,700 earthquakes to create the most detailed three-dimensional representations of the volcano’s subsurface structure.
They discovered liquid rock rising from the Altiplano Puna Magma body, a large reservoir of partially melted rock located deep within the Andes.
GPS station with Cerro Uturuncu in the background. – Duncan Muir, Cardiff University
As these liquids ascend through narrow vertical channels, they gather just below the summit of the volcano, creating a reservoir of gas and brine. Instead of new magma being injected, this fluid movement seems to sustain Uturuncu’s ongoing activity.
“Our findings illustrate how integrated geophysical and geological methods can enhance our understanding of volcanoes and the hazards and potential resources they entail,” stated Professor Mike Kendall from Oxford University, a co-author of the study.
Notably, the researchers found that gas accumulation underground is relatively low, indicating a reduced likelihood of a significant eruption at this time.
These findings are intended to reassure the local community while highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring. Uturuncu is among numerous “zombie” volcanoes globally; these are classified as dormant yet still exhibit internal movement.
“This methodology can be applied to over 1,400 potentially active volcanoes,” remarked co-author Professor Matthew Pritchard from Cornell University. “This approach may also be relevant to other dormant volcanoes like Uturuncu that demonstrate signs of life.”
Currently, Uturuncu remains restless beneath the surface but is not prepared to awaken just yet.
Recently identified by astronomers, this newly discovered molecular cloud is one of the largest structures in the sky and is among the closest to the Sun and Earth ever detected.
The EOS Cloud is situated at the boundary of your local bubble—a region populated by large gases within the solar system. Image credits: Thomas Müller, HDA & MPIA/Thavisha Dharmawardena, NYU.
Molecular clouds consist of gas and dust, primarily composed of hydrogen, the most prevalent molecule in the universe and essential for the formation of all known stars and planets.
Additionally, these structures harbor other molecules, including carbon monoxide.
Traditional detection methods for molecular clouds often involve wireless and infrared observations, which readily capture the chemical signatures of carbon monoxide.
However, Blakely Burkhart, an astrophysicist from Rutgers University in New Brunswick, and his team took a different approach.
“This is the first molecular cloud discovered by directly seeking out the distant ultraviolet radiation of molecular hydrogen,” Dr. Burkhart stated.
“Our data revealed glowing hydrogen molecules detected through fluorescence in distant ultraviolet light. This cloud truly shines in the dark.”
The new molecular cloud, named EOS, was located approximately 300 light-years from Earth and can be viewed here.
It resides at the periphery of a local bubble, a region filled with gases surrounding the solar system.
Astronomers estimate that these crescent clouds are immense, spanning about 40 months across the sky and having a mass approximately 3,400 times that of the Sun.
They are projected to dissipate within 6 million years.
According to the research team, the EOS cloud poses no threat to Earth or the solar system.
Its proximity offers a unique opportunity to explore the properties of structures within the interstellar medium.
The interstellar medium, composed of gas and dust, fills the space between stars in the galaxy and is a key source for new star formation.
“When you look through a telescope, you observe the solar system in its formative phase, but the exact process remains unclear,” Dr. Burkhart explained.
“The discovery of EOS is thrilling because it allows us to directly measure how molecular clouds form and dissolve, as well as how galaxies transform interstellar gas and dust into stars and planets.”
“Utilizing distant UV fluorescence technology could redefine our understanding of the interstellar medium, uncover hidden clouds across the galaxy, and even push our exploration further back to the very edge of the universe’s inception.”
The findings are reported in a study published today in the journal Nature Astronomy.
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B. Burke Hart et al. Dark molecular clouds near local bubbles revealed via H2 fluorescence. Nature Astronomy. Published online on April 28, 2025. doi:10.1038/s41550-025-02541-7
Tabular icebergs are away from Antarctica ice shelves
James Kirkham
When the ice sheets covering much of Northern Europe were rapidly retreating about 18,000-20,000 years ago, urban-sized icebergs once drifted through the British coast.
James Kirkham During a survey in the Antarctic of England, his colleagues discovered preserved scour marks created by these giants, which were created when they ploughed underwater sediments. The long comb-like features are buried under the mud of the North Sea, but are still visible in seismic survey data collected for searches for oil and gas.
“We know about the degree of scouring and ancient sea level, so we can estimate that these bergs are probably five to tens of kilometers wide, and perhaps hundreds of meters thick.
In Antarctica, table-form or table-top icebergs are a spectacular sight. Some will rival even small states in the US from a regional standpoint, like the recent giants known as the A23A and A68A. They listen from the ice shelf – a wide floating protrusion of a glacier flowing from the glacier.
Therefore, the perception that tabular icebergs once existed in the North Sea clearly shows that they had both the sea edges of the British and Ireland ice sheets and ice shelves. And that means there may be some lessons for the future decline of Antarctica, says Keycam.
In the North Sea, the large iceberg’s straight trams are written by wavy valleys made by narrow keels of much smaller blocks of ice. In other words, there is a “change of administration” in which large icebergs are replaced by countless small icebergs when ice shelves are crushed in response to rising temperatures, says Keekam.
Radiocarbon dating of sediments indicates that this shift occurs between 20,000 and 18,000 years ago.
Observations question the idea that labours of megabergs like the A23A and A68A may signal the widespread collapse of Antarctic ice shelves.
Emma Mackey The University of Florida tracks tabular iceberg sizes with satellite data since the mid-1970s, finding this trend to be inherently flat.
“James’ research highlights the mines, which means that major birth events are not necessarily signs of instability or cause of alarm,” says McKee. “In fact, ice shelves are disintegrated by death by 1,000 cuts. You need to worry when you stop watching large-scale birth events.”
At 3 months’ age (born October 1, 2024), the miserable wolves of giant biological sciences, Romulus and Remus. Image credit: Colossal Biosciences.
The miserable wolves were like big cans, and were among the most common extinct carnivorous animals of the late Late Pleistocene megafauna in America.
These animals first appeared in the late Pliocene period 3.5 million to 2.5 million years ago, as a result of the mixing between two ancient Canid strains.
The miserable wolf was 25% heavier than the grey wolf, with a slightly wider head, with light thick fur and strong jaws.
As hypercarnivores, their diet consisted mainly of at least 70% meat from horses and bison.
They were extinct at the end of the recent ice age about 13,000 years ago.
The main hypothesis explaining their extinction is that their body size is larger than gray wolves and coyotes, making them more specialized in hunting large prey and unable to survive the extinction of giant prey.
“Our team collected DNA from 13,000-year-old teeth and 72,000-year-old skulls to create healthy, miserable puppies,” said Ben Lamm, CEO of Colossal Biosciences.
“It was once said that “a sufficiently advanced technology cannot be distinguished from magic.” “
“Today, our team will be unveiling some of the magic they are working on, revealing the broader impact on conservation.”
Three liters of the wicked wolves of giant biological science include two adolescent men (Romulus and Remus) and one female puppy (Khaleesi).
They thrive in more than 2,000 acres of safe ecological reserves, including specialized engagement zones and habit types.
They are continuously monitored through live cameras, security personnel and drone tracking on-site to ensure safety and welfare.
“The disastrous wolves’ disappearance is more than a biological revival,” said Mark Fox, chairman of MHA Nation Tribal.
“Its birth symbolizes awakening. The ancient spirit has returned to the world.”
“The miserable wolves have the echoes of our ancestors, their wisdom, and connections to the wild.”
“Its existence reminds us of our responsibility as custodians of the Earth to protect the delicate balance of not only wolves but life itself.”
“The work of our team…Red wolf (Canis Rufus) From three different genetic founder lines.
These liters include the adolescent female Red Wolf (hope) and three male Red Wolf puppies (flame, cinders, ashes).
“We’ve seen a lot of trouble with the stakes,” said Dr. George Church, a geneticist at Harvard University and co-founder of Colossal Biosciences.
“Another source of ecosystems comes from genes lost after being deelectrically removed from new technologies, such as deep ancient DNA sequencing, polyphyllatic characterization, multiplexed germ cell editing, and cloning.”
“The disastrous wolves are an early example of this, so far, including the maximum number of accurate genome editing in healthy vertebrates: their exponentially growing ability.”
Paleontologists have discovered 131 large theropods and sauropods in the formations of the central Jurassic Kirmalag at Prince Charles’s point, located on the northwest coast of the Troternas Peninsula in Sky.
A 167 million-year-old dinosaur trackway located at Prince Charles’s point on the Isle of Skye. Image credit: Blakesley et al. , doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0319862.
The rocks of Isle of Skye are rich in dinosaur footprints, providing insight into the distribution and behavior of dinosaurs at critical times of evolution.
The newly discovered footprint was left in the wavy sands of an ancient subtropical lagoon dating back to the mid-Jurassic period about 167 million years ago.
The footprint is 25-60 cm long and comes in two types. This is a round “Tyre-Size” track, made by three untidy trucks left by Bipedal: a carnivorous theropod, a tetrapod, and a long-necked sauropod.
Based on comparisons with previous fossil discoveries, the most likely truck maker is Megalosaurus Similar to early branching members of the Neosauropod group CethiosaurusBoth are known from British skeletal ruins.
According to paleontologists, many of these footprints occur together in successive steps.
The longest of these trackways is over 12m, among the longest known examples from the Isle of Skye.
The spacing and orientation of these trackways represent slow walking without consistent orientation or interaction with each other, and what is probably left by the dinosaurs is casually crushed at slightly different times.
The site at Prince Charles’s point supports previous evidence that the Jurassic Sauropod frequently visited Scottish lagoons.
However, this site contains a higher percentage of theropod tracks than similar locales, perhaps indicating differences in the environment between these ancient lagoons.
The site also does not have footprints from other dinosaurs such as Stegosaurus and Ornithopods, but it remains unclear whether these animals really do not exist in this environment or simply did not leave a mark on this site.
“Prince Charles’s footprint at points provides fascinating insight into the behavior and environmental distribution of meat-eating theropods and plant-eating long-necked sauropods during key periods of evolution.”
“In Sky, these dinosaurs obviously preferred shallow, submerged lagoon environments to muddy air exposed.”
“Interestingly, this site also has historical significance as a location for Skye, where Prince Bonnie landed and hidden while flying through Scotland following the Battle of Culloden.”
Discoveries are reported in a paper Published online in the journal PLOS 1.
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T. Blakely et al. 2025. A new central Jurassic Lagoon margin assembly of theropod and sauropod dinosaur trajectories from the Isle of Skye, Scotland. PLOS 1 20(4): E0319862; doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0319862
2MASX J23453268-0449256 (J2345-0449 for short), a very huge, rapidly spinning, jet lag spiral galaxy with approximately 947 million light years in the Aquarius constellation, a mass of billions of people billions that are billions of times the sun’s, and mounted on a massive radio jet spanning six million light years. This is one of the largest known in any spiral galaxy, and such powerful jets are almost exclusively found in elliptical galaxies rather than spiral, thus covering the conventional wisdom of galaxies’ evolution. It also means that the Milky Way can potentially create similar energetic jets in the future.
This image shows the Spiral Galaxy 2Masx J23453268-0449256 and its huge radio jet. Image credit: Bagchi et al. /Giant Metrure Lave Radio Telescope.
“This discovery is more than just weird. It forces us to rethink the evolution of galaxies and how super-large black holes grow and shape the environment within them,” said Professor Joydeep Baguch of Christ University.
“If spiral galaxies can not only survive, but also thrive under such extreme conditions, what does this mean for the future of our own Milky Way galaxies?”
“Can our Galaxy experience similar high-energy phenomena that have serious consequences for the survival of precious lives within it?”
In a new study, astronomers have unraveled the structure and evolution of the Spiral Galaxy J2345-0449, three times the size of the Milky Way.
Using observations from NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope, Giant Metruh Rave Radio Telescope, Atacama’s Large Millimeter/Sub-Millimeter Array (ALMA), and multi-wavelength analysis, we detected the giant ultrafine black holes of its mind and radio jets in the largest radio jets by creating rare galaxies.
Traditionally, scientists believed that such huge, superimpression violent activities would destroy the delicate structures of spiral galaxies.
But for all possibilities, J2345-0449 retains its quiet nature with a well-defined spiral arm, bright nuclear bars and an uninterrupted ring of stars.
In addition to enigma, the galaxy is surrounded by vast halos of hot x-ray exhaust, providing important insights into its history.
This halo cools slowly over time, but the black hole jets act like space furnaces, preventing new star formation despite the abundant star-building materials present.
The authors also found that J2345-0449 contains 10 times the dark matter as the Milky Way.
“Understanding these rare galaxies could provide important clues about the invisible forces that govern the universe, such as the nature of dark matter, the long-term fate of the galaxy, and the origin of life,” says Ph.D. A student at the University of Christ.
“In the end, this research brings us one step closer to solving the mystery of the Cosmos and reminds us that the universe holds surprise beyond our imagination.”
Survey results It was published in Monthly Notices from the Royal Astronomical Society.
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Joydeep Bagchi et al. 2025. Announcing bulge disk structures, AGN feedback and baryon landscapes in a large helical galaxy with MPC-scale radio jets. mnras 538(3): 1628-1652; doi: 10.1093/mnras/staf229
Illustration of Duonychus Tsogtbaatari, a Cretaceous theropod dinosaur
Masato Hatri
A new species of dinosaur found on the Mongolian building site has the largest fully preserved claws ever discovered. The bipedal herbivores only had two fingers in each hand, so they may have been used to grab a branch and pull it towards their mouth.
The 90 million-year-old fossil containing parts of the pelvis, arms and hands, and parts of numerous vertebrae was discovered in 2012 near Kambogd in the Gobi Desert, but is now properly studied and given a scientific name. Duonychus tsogtbaatari. The genus name means “two claws” and the species name honors Mongolian paleontologists Kishigjav tsogtbaatar.
Duonychus It's a small relative of Tericinosaurusthe features of the movie Jurassic World Dominion. Yoshitug Kobayashi In Hokkaido, Japan, his colleague estimates that the dinosaurs were about 3 meters long and weighed about 270 kilograms.
“Discovery Duonychus tsogtbaatari It's a big deal because it's the first known tericinosaurus with only two fingers,” says Kobayashi.
Overall, five groups of theropods have evolved to have only two fingers. Tyrannosaurus.
DuonychusThe nails are nearly 30 centimeters. Unusually, the nail sheath is made of keratin, the same material as the nail – is preserved.
“Keratin usually doesn't become fossilized. It fades long before bones do it,” says Kobayashi. “Most of the time, when we find dinosaur claws, we just look at the nucleus of the bone. But in life, the actual claws are covered in thick keratin sheaths, which are longer and curved.”
Team Members Darla Zelenitsky At the University of Calgary, Canada, finding a two-fingered Tericinosaurus was very surprising.
Duonychus Tsogtbaatari nails
Kobayashi et al.
“This is the largest 3D dinosaur claw that is completely preserved. “This claw is not preserved as the outline of the rock surrounding the bone. This is quite typical for fossils where the true claw is preserved. This claw is actually three-dimensional and forms a sheath around the underlying phalanx, similar to what is found on dog and cat's paws.”
Researchers believe that the nails are adaptations for grabbing and pulling down vegetation. Less fingers can make each one stronger, more flexible, narrower, and more controlled grips possible, Kobayashi says.
“The curved claws and extreme flexion suggest that they can be more easily connected to leaf branches and clusters,” he says. “Three fingers may have just got in the way, but two provided a more accurate and efficient grasp.”
Astronomers using Near-infrared camera (NIRCAM) NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope equipped and captured corona graphic images of the HR 8799 and 51 Eridani Planetary Systems. These observations revealed HR 8799 and four known gas giants around 51 Eridani. They also revealed that all HR 8799 planets are carbon dioxide-rich.
This Webb/Nircam image shows the multiplanet system HR 8799. Image credits: NASA/ESA/CSA/STSCI/W. BALMER, JHU/L. PUEYO, STSCI/M. PERRIN, STSCI.
HR 8799 is a star from 30 million years ago, about 129 light years away from the Pegasus constellation.
Hosts large chip disks and four supergipers: HR 8799b, c, d, and e.
Unlike most exoplanet discoveries inferred from data analysis, these planets are seen directly via ground telescopes.
“We have shown that the atmosphere of these planets has quite a lot of heavy elements, such as carbon, oxygen and iron.
“Given what we know about the stars, it's likely that it indicates that they were formed through Core landing this is an exciting conclusion for the planet we can see firsthand. ”
The planets within HR 8799 are still hot from the formation of the turbulent, ejecting a large amount of infrared rays that provide valuable data about how scientists formed.
Giant planets can take shape in two ways. Like giants in the solar system, by slowly building heavy elements that attract gas, or the particles of gas rapidly merge into giant objects from a cooling disk of a young star made of the same kind of material as the stars.
The first process is called core accretion and the second is called disk instability.
Knowing which formation models are more common can provide clues to scientists distinguish the types of planets they have found in other systems.
“Our hope in this type of study is to understand our own solar system, life and ourselves, in comparison to other exoplanet systems.
“We want to take photos of other solar systems and see how they look similar or different from us.”
“From there we can feel how strange or normal our solar system is.”
This Webb/Nircam image shows the 51 Eridani system. Image credits: NASA/ESA/CSA/STSCI/W. BALMER, JHU/L. PUEYO, STSCI/M. PERRIN, STSCI.
51 Eridanus is located approximately 97 light years from Earth in the constellation of Eridanus.
51 If called ERI, C ERIDANI, or HD 29391, the star is only 20 million years old and by astronomy standards it is merely a toddler.
Host one giant planet, 51 Eridani B. It orbits the star at a distance of approximately 13 AU (astronomical units), equivalent to that of Saturn and Uranus in the solar system.
Images of HR 8799 and 51 rib ticks were made possible by Webb's Nircam Coronagraph.
This technique allowed astronomers to look for infrared rays emitted by planets at wavelengths absorbed by a particular gas.
They discovered that the four HR 8799 planets contain more heavy elements than previously thought.
“There is other evidence suggesting these four HR 8799 planets formed using this bottom-up approach,” says Dr. Laurent Puueyo, an astronomer at the Institute of Space Telescope Science.
“How common is this on planets we don't know yet?
“We knew that Webb could measure the colour of outer planets in a directly imaged system,” added Dr. Remi Somer of the Institute of Space Telescope Science.
“We waited for 10 years to ensure that the finely tuned operations of the telescope had access to the inner planet.”
“We now have results and we can do some interesting science.”
William O. Balmer et al. 2025. JWST-TST High Contrast: Living on the Wedge, or Nircam Bar Coronagraph reveals CO2 HR 8799 and 51 ERI extracts atmosphere. AJ 169, 209; doi:10.3847/1538-3881/ADB1C6
The ARP 105 features star and gas tide tails that exceed 362,000 light years.
The elliptical galaxy NGC 3561B (top left) and the Spiral Galaxy NGC 3561A (bottom right) form the ongoing merger-sparking guitar shapes known comprehensively as ARP.
ARP 105 It is located approximately 400 million light years from Earth, in the constellation of Ursa major.
Also known as NGC 3561, it was discovered by British astronomer John Herschel on March 30, 1827.
It consists of two huge galaxies, the elliptical galaxy NGC 3561B and the Spiral Galaxy NGC 3561A.
“The ARP 105 is one of the brightest objects in the busy Galaxy Cluster Abell 1185,” Hubble Astronomers said in a statement.
“Abell 1185 is a chaotic cluster of at least 82 galaxies, many of which are not only interacting, but many wandering spherical clusters that are not gravity attached to a particular galaxy.”
The gravity dance between the NGC 3561B and NGC 3561A creates the features of an attractive collision galaxy.
“The giant tail is drawn from two galaxies by gravity interaction, embedding a cluster of stars and a galaxy of d star,” the astronomer said.
“The uniquely shaped arrangement of the galaxy and tail gives the grouping the nickname: guitar.”
“The long lanes of dark dust emerging from the NGC 3561b oval galaxy may be ingesting the bright blue region of star-forming at the bottom of the guitar known as Ambartsumian's Knot.”
“Ambartsumian's Knot is a tidal star galaxy. It is a type of star-forming system that develops from fragments of the tidal arms of interacting galaxies.”
“The two bright blue regions of star formation are evident in Hubble images at the edge of a distorted helical galaxy.”
“The region on the left of the spiral galaxy may be very similar to the knot of Ambartumian, the knot of intense star-forming knot caused by the merger.”
“The area on the right is still under investigation. It may be part of the collision, but its velocity and spectral data are different from the rest of the system, so it could be a galaxy in the foreground.”
“The thin, faint gas tips are barely visible that stretch between two galaxies.”
“These tendrils are of particular interest to astronomers as they may help define the timescale of this collision evolution.”
Elon Musk stated on Monday that X was hit by a “massive cyberattack,” causing intermittent service disruptions that affected social media networks throughout the day. The platform, formerly known as Twitter, was unresponsive for many users as posts failed to load.
“We face attacks every day, but this one was well-resourced,” said the platform’s CEO. He posted, “Large, coordinated groups and/or countries are involved.”
Down detector, a website monitoring for outages, showed a spike in thousands of outage reports around 5:45 am on various platforms. Another surge in reported outages occurred around noon, with most issues happening on the company’s mobile app. Tweets that failed to display showed a “something went wrong” message prompting users to try reloading.
The world’s richest man did not provide evidence for his claim. His statements were in response to cryptocurrency influencers suggesting a pause following other resistance to Musk’s ventures. Protests against the “Ministry of Government Efficiency” initiative resulted in vandalism against Musk’s leadership and Tesla dealers in the previous week.
The CEO of SpaceX, who acquired Twitter for $44 billion in 2022, alleged that the previous platform outage was due to a cyberattack. Musk previously claimed a “massive DDOS attack” caused the crash of his live-streamed interview with Donald Trump last year, although company sources later told The Verge there was no attack.
The X outage adds to the challenges facing Musk’s businesses and initiatives. A SpaceX rocket exploded in flight near the Bahamas on Friday, scattering debris. “Tesla Takedown” protests across the nation targeted Tesla dealers, with owners selling vehicles, and the company’s stock prices hitting a low on Monday. Trump also had a heated meeting with Musk and his Cabinet Secretary, hinting at curbing Musk’s influence against government officials who fired many from various agencies.
Standing up to a science rally in Washington Square Park, New York City on March 7th
James Dinneen
Thousands of people in American cities protested March 7th against the Trump administration's cuts to scientific funding.
In New York City, over 1,000 people gathered at Washington Square Park and chanted “Fund Science Not War!” People had signs of mourning the cut, including one that said, “Science makes America great.”
The protest was one of at least 30 “stand-up for science” rallies in US cities, and over 150 events were expected worldwide. The researchers also left the institute as part of the protest.
Since President Donald Trump took office on January 20th, the administration has cancelled or frozen billions of dollars in federal funds for scientific and medical research. Much of the reduction focuses on research related to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and research on climate change and gender. The government has also fired thousands of federal employees at U.S. scientific institutions, including the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the National Institutes of Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
“Science is something that needs to be cherished. I think everyone has to be here. I'm rather working with my cells in my lab, but I think we need to bring awareness to these issues.” Anna Vivineteda neuroscientist at Weill Cornell Medicine who participated in the New York protest. She had signs that read, “So bad, even introverts are here.”
Demonstrators keep signs during stand-up at a science rally at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, DC on March 7th
Tierney L Cross / Bloomberg via Getty Images
“Science is being attacked, and funds are now being cut for decades in ways that affect the well-being of our country,” says Maia, a researcher at the Columbia University Eco Museum in New York. She says she and her colleagues lost funds for their research.
The largest gathering took place in Washington, D.C., where thousands of people attended. It included scientist Bill Nye. Francis Collins, former director of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Several members of the Congress. Over 1,500 people attended the New York event. There, notable researchers also spoke, including Lisa Randall, the chief scientist at Meta Ayan Lekun, former NIH director and Nobel laureate, theoretical physicist at Harvard.
Researchers from around the world participated in the New York protests. “America has been a very exceptional thing to science. I really believe that science has made America great. We are very disappointed because everything is destroyed,” says a French cancer biologist.
New Scientist We also spoke with scientists from Argentina, Israel, Canada and Australia at the rally. Some of them worried that they might have to leave the US to continue their work. “I am heartbroken. Vivinezze, from Argentina, said:
Dennis Robbinsa science educator at Hunter College in New York had a sign that read, “Now I am a crazy scientist.” He says he had the same signs in his first “March for Science” protest in 2017.
#StandUpForScience2025 At the Michigan State Capitol. It's time to still come out and defend government scientific funding and sustaining evidence-based decision-making. pic.twitter.com/jvtktzocaf
– Rebecca Santelli (girlfriend) (@rebeccasantelli) March 7, 2025
A crowd of people at the Philadelphia science march! The most popular sign: “I left the lab for this.” The protests have just begun, so please join us! #marchforscience #science #philly
Radcliffe’s wave visualization, a series of dust and gas clouds (marked here) throughout the Milky Way. Approximately 400 light years from the sun, marked yellow
Alyssa A. Goodman/Harvard University
Our solar system passed through vast waves of gas and dust about 14 million years ago, darkening the views of the Earth’s night sky. The waves may have left a trace on our planet’s geological records.
Astronomers previously discovered large ocean-like waves of milky stars, gas and dust that ripple up and down for millions of years. One of these closest and most studied is the Radcliffe waves, about 9,000 light years wide and only 400 light years from the solar system.
Now, Efrem Maconi The University of Vienna and his colleagues discovered that the waves of Radcliffe once were far closer to us, surpassing the solar system 11 to 18 million years ago.
Maconi and his team used data from Gaia Space Telescope, which tracked billions of stars in the Milky Way, to identify recently formed groups of stars within the Radcliffe Wave, and identify the dust and gas clouds that formed from them.
Using these stars, they tracked the cloud orbits in time to reveal historic locations to show how the entire wave was moving. They also calculated the past paths of the solar system, rewind the clock for 30 million years, and discovered that the waves and our sun were approaching intimately about 15-12 million years ago. It is difficult to accurately estimate when the intersection began and ended, but the team believes the solar system is within the wave range around 14 million years ago.
This would have made Earth’s galactic environment as dark as it is today, as we currently live in a relatively empty space realm. “If we are in a dense region of interstellar media, that means that the light coming from the stars will dim,” says Macconi. “It’s like being on a foggy day.”
The encounter may have left evidence in Earth’s geological records and deposited radioactive isotopes on the crust, but considering how long ago it happened, this would be difficult to measure, he says. It says it is useful to find such a galactic encounter, as explaining the geological record of the Earth is a continuous problem. Ralph Schoenrich University College London.
More speculatively, the crossing appears to have occurred during a period of cooling, known as the mid-Miocene. Maconi said the two could be linked, but this would be difficult to prove. Schoenrich thinks that is unlikely. “The rule of thumb is that geology outweighs the influence of the universe,” he says. “When you move around the continent or disrupt ocean currents, you need more because climate change is occurring.”
In the quest for clean energy and a shift away from fossil fuels, scientists may have uncovered new sources of power, potentially hidden in our mountains. A team of researchers from Germany has identified a vast reservoir of hydrogen gas, generated by rocks formed millions of years ago, through advanced simulations.
This discovery is significant as hydrogen (H2) as a power source does not emit greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, making it a more sustainable alternative to fossil fuels that contribute to climate change. Additionally, the production of hydrogen results in water instead of harmful emissions. However, the challenge lies in the fact that natural hydrogen production is rare, with the current synthetic production relying on fossil fuels.
The main hurdle in hydrogen production is sourcing it naturally. While geological processes can generate natural hydrogen without the need for fossil fuels, the availability of large accessible reserves remains uncertain. The recent study conducted by German researchers could potentially address this issue.
“We may be on the brink of a new era in natural hydrogen exploration,” said Dr. Frank Zworn, the lead author of the study published in the journal Advances in Science. “This could pave the way for a new natural hydrogen industry.”
Researchers at the GFZ Helmholtz Center for Geosciences in Germany utilized simulations of plate tectonic processes to identify a substantial reserve of natural hydrogen.
Natural hydrogen can be generated through various methods, such as bacterial transformation of organic matter or the splitting of water molecules due to radioactivity in the Earth’s crust. However, one of the most promising natural methods involves a geological process known as “serpentinization,” where rocks from the Earth’s mantle react with water to release H2 gas.
According to researchers, when these hydrogen-rich rocks are situated near the Earth’s surface, they can create potential zones for large-scale hydrogen production via excavation. These rocks are brought closer to the surface through processes such as continental rifting and mountain formation over millions of years.
As the crustal plates collide and create mountains, deep mantle rocks push up to the surface of the Earth. ‘Hot spots’ of hydrogen gas were identified where these rocks surfaced. – Image credit: CC BY-NC-SA 3.0 USGS/ESEU Frankswaan edition, GFZ
By analyzing two processes, researchers determined that mountain formation offers ideal conditions for hydrogen generation. The combination of cold environments in mountains and increased water circulation could enhance hydrogen levels significantly. Simulations showed that rocks emerging through mountain formations have 20 times the hydrogen capacity compared to those brought to the surface via continental rifting.
Signs of natural hydrogen production have already been observed in mountainous regions such as the Pyrenees, European Alps, and Balkans. The research team anticipates that their findings will inspire further exploration of natural hydrogen in these areas and other mountainous regions.
Professor Sasha Brune, the head of the geodynamic modeling section at GFZ, emphasized the economic prospects tied to natural hydrogen. He stated, “It is now crucial to delve deeper into the migration pathways of microbial ecosystems that consume hydrogen, both shallow and deep, and to gain a better understanding of where potential hydrogen reservoirs can be formed.”
The astronomers have identified nine rings using NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope and WM KECK Observatory’s KECK COSMIC Web Imager (KCWI) data.
Pasha et al。 Nine rings around the Leda 1313424, a ring galaxy, about 567 million lights, have been detected around the constellation of Pisces. They also confirmed that the galaxy had pigeons and created these rings through the Reda 1313424. Image Credit: NASA / ESA / HUBBLE / IMAD PASHA & Pieter Van Dokkum, Yale University.
LEDA 1313424 A ring galaxy found in the image of Legacy Survey Dr9 in 2019.
The galaxy called Bulls Eye’s nickname has an reddish transition of Z = 0.0394 corresponding to the distance of 567 million light years.
The diameter of LEDA 1313424 is 250,000 light years. This is almost 2.5 times that of the Milky Way galaxy.
“This was an accidental discovery,” said Imado Pasha, a student in the Yale University doctoral course.
“I was looking at a ground -based imaging survey, but when I saw a galaxy with some transparent rings, I was immediately drawn to it. I had to stop to investigate it. did.”
Approximately 50 million years ago, a small blue dwarf galaxy moved like a dart that passed the core of LEDA 1313424.
With this collision, 10 rings were created around LEDA 1313424. This has detected nine unprecedented rings.
A thin gas trail links the pair, but is currently 130,000 light years away.
“We are catching Bulls Eye at a very special moment,” said Professor Peter Van Dockm of Yale University.
“When there are many rings in such a galaxy, there is a very narrow window after the impact.”
Researchers used Hubble’s clear vision to identify the eight rings of LEDA 1313424 and check another ring using KECK.
They also discovered a brilliant connection between Ring Galaxy and many years. The galaxy ring seems to have moved almost exactly as expected as the model predicted.
“The theory was developed on the day I saw a lot of rings,” said Professor Van Dokum.
“I am very pleased to confirm the predictions for these years in the Bulls Eye Galaxy.”
From the top, it is clear that the Galaxy ring is not evenly spaced like a Dart board. The image of Hubble shows the galaxy from a slight angle.
“If you look down on the galaxy directly, the ring looks circular, the ring will be bundled in the center, and will gradually be far away and gradually break away,” Pasha explained.
a paper Regarding this discovery, it was released today Astronomical physics journal letter。
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Imad Pasha et al。 2025. Bullsia: HST, KECK/KCWI, and the characteristics of the giant 9 -ring dragon fly. APJL 980, L3; DOI: 10.3847/2041-8213/AD9F5C
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