On January 22, 2026, the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope captured stunning images of interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS, showing it in near-perfect alignment with the Sun-Earth axis. This observation unveiled an unprecedented jet structure and an elongated tail.
This image of interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS was captured by Hubble’s WFC3 instrument on January 22, 2026, at 13:10 UTC. Image credit: NASA / ESA / Hubble / Man Tu Hui, Shanghai Observatory.
According to researchers Professor Abraham Loeb from Harvard University and Dr. Mauro Barbieri from the INAF Padua Observatory, interstellar objects like 3I/ATLAS provide a rare opportunity to study materials from distant star systems. They detailed their findings in recent papers published in American Astronomical Society Research Notes.
Previous interstellar visitors such as 1I/Oumuamua lacked evidence of gas or dust, while 2I/Borisov was only observed at angles greater than 16 degrees from the Sun-Earth alignment, missing the chance for detailed study.
On January 22, 2026, comet 3I/ATLAS was positioned at an astonishingly small angle of just 0.69 degrees relative to the Earth-Sun axis, allowing for an optimal view as our planet passed nearly directly between the Sun and the comet.
This rare alignment caused a significant brightness spike, influenced by the composition and structure of the particles emitted from the 3I/ATLAS jet, as noted by Professor Loeb in the statement.
This image of interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS was taken by Hubble’s WFC3 instrument on January 22, 2026, at 13:40 UTC. Image credit: NASA / ESA / Hubble / Man Tu Hui, Shanghai Observatory.
Astrophysicist Mang To Hui from the Shanghai Observatory utilized Hubble’s capabilities to observe 3I/ATLAS during conditions that may not occur again for decades.
The interstellar object images were gathered using Hubble’s Wide Field Camera 3 (WFC3) instrument, providing valuable data for ongoing research.
Professor Loeb elaborated on the findings, stating, “When the Hubble images from the January 22, 2026, alignment were processed by my collaborator Toni Scarmato, they revealed a system of four jets, including a prominent tail directed toward the Sun and Earth, along with three smaller ‘minijets.’”
“These minijets are spaced evenly apart at 120-degree angles, with one possibly hidden from view due to its unfavorable orientation relative to Earth, rendering it dark.”
Rare Y Chromosome Discovery in Bloodstains at Crime Scene
Shutterstock/PeopleImages
Forensic investigations into the murder victim have revealed a fascinating case of Chimerism. This means her body harbored genetically distinct cells, resembling those from two different individuals.
The unidentified woman’s cellular composition displayed varying male and female cell ratios across tissues. The most plausible explanation is that she developed from one egg fertilized by two sperm—one carrying an X chromosome and the other a Y chromosome, according to biologists from New Scientist.
“This is an intriguing case, but not entirely unprecedented,” noted David Haig from Harvard University.
Visible signs of chimerism can be rare, though singer Taylor Mule has raised awareness about the condition. Often, genetic testing is the only way to identify it.
This was also true for the murder victim shot and killed in China, where blood analysis at the scene revealed the presence of a Y chromosome, prompting further investigation.
Subsequent tests showed the female (XX) to male (XY) cell ratios varied throughout her body. In one hair sample, the majority were XY cells, while the kidney revealed a balanced mix. The other tissues examined predominantly contained XX cells, albeit in varying amounts.
Typically, XX/XY chimerism is linked to ambiguous sexual characteristics. However, in this instance, the woman’s anatomy offered no indication of her condition, and she had a son—hinting that she may have been unaware of her chimerism.
One known mechanism for XX/XY chimerism formation is through the fusion of non-identical twins. Here, two separately fertilized eggs combine to form a single embryo.
Nevertheless, the X chromosome in the victim’s XY cells matched one of the X chromosomes found in the XX cells, indicating both could have originated from the same egg—thus excluding the fusion theory.
Initially, it was believed that one egg split into two eggs, each of which was fertilized to create two separate embryos that later fused. This theory has been challenged by Chinese forensic experts.
Michael Gabbett at Queensland University of Technology in Brisbane argues that this possibility is negated.
“When this type of chimera was first documented in humans, this was the prevailing theory. However, no one has been able to provide substantial evidence for it occurring in humans or other mammals,” Gabbett stated.
Instead, he proposes that one egg was fertilized by two sperm, leading to a triploid fertilized egg that ultimately divided into three. Two cells retained one set from the egg and one from sperm while the third likely contained two sperm sets, leading to its eventual demise.
This rare occurrence, termed “trigametic chimerism,” involves an egg and two sperm, a theory supported by Haig.
This phenomenon is exceedingly rare, and on occasion, the embryo can split, resulting in semi-identical twins and even chimerism. There are only two recorded cases of semi-identical twins, one of which Gabbett was involved in identifying.
For the murder victim, the chimeric cells were present throughout her body, and the Chinese research team asserts this is the first extensive examination of various organs in such cases of triplet chimerism.
Another form, microchimerism, is more prevalent than trigametic chimerism. It occurs when maternal cells invade the fetus or vice versa during pregnancy and can also happen when siblings exchange cells.
Artist’s impression of a rogue planet capturing light from a distant source
Credit: J. Skowron/OGLE
Located nearly 10,000 light-years away, a Saturn-sized planet roams through the vacuum of space. This enigmatic rogue planet was discovered through the joint efforts of ground-based telescopes and the Gaia Space Telescope, marking the first time researchers have measured the mass of a free-floating exoplanet.
Typically, rogue planets found are either more massive than Jupiter or lighter than Neptune, creating a gap known as the “Einstein Desert.” This gap is attributed to the fact that lighter celestial bodies are more likely to be ejected from their stellar orbits, while heavier planets may form independently in open space, similar to stars.
This newly identified exoplanet is extremely rare and has been assigned two designations: KMT-2024-BLG-0792 and OGLE-2024-BLG-0516. Andrzej Udalski, along with researchers from the University of Warsaw, made this groundbreaking discovery using distinct ground-based telescopes. What makes it even more remarkable is its measured mass, which is approximately one-fifth that of Jupiter.
“What’s fascinating about this find is that it’s the first rogue planet we’ve measured in terms of mass, achievable through both Earth-based and Gaia observations,” says Gavin Coleman from Queen Mary University of London. The planet was detected via a method known as gravitational microlensing, occurring when light from a distant source is bent by the planet’s gravitational field, resulting in a halo effect around it. The alignment of the Gaia Space Telescope at the right moment allowed additional capture of this microlensing event.
“Mass is a crucial factor for classifying celestial bodies as planets,” Udalsky explains, confirming this as the first verified rogue planet. “This is a pivotal moment for recognizing that floating planets do indeed exist,” he added. The upcoming NASA Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope, expected to launch in 2027, is anticipated to uncover even more such celestial discoveries.
“These planets should be quite numerous, with many being expelled from their original stellar systems during their formation’s early stages, providing key insights into how planetary systems develop,” Udalsky notes. This knowledge may contribute to understanding the formation of our own solar system, which some studies suggest may have inadvertently ejected planets in its early history.
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A gray morning greets Shadwell in east London. Yet, within the historical confines of Tobacco Dock, the gloom is transformed into vibrant neon lights, sleek vehicles, and buzzing conversations about cryptocurrency.
Over two days, advocates of Web3, the envisioned future of the Internet, gathered at the venue of its former exchanges. For many attendees, the highlight is a singular figure: Nigel Farage.
“I don’t care if you like me or not, I’m a champion of this space,” declared the Reform UK leader to an audience predominantly composed of male crypto enthusiasts at the Zebu Live conference.
“Either I’m here to bolster your community, or your community is here to bolster me. Regardless, this partnership benefits us both.”
Farage is aiming to forge a business relationship, emulating Donald Trump’s strategy, with hopes it will evolve into a financial backing for his forthcoming campaign. This year, the Reform Party became the inaugural major UK political party to accept contributions via Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies.
Attendees noted Farage’s active presence on the circuit, having recently visited a digital asset summit just a mile away in Old Billingsgate.
Zebu Live conference at Tobacco Dock. Photo: George on the boat
“I aim to bring digital assets and cryptocurrencies from chilly London,” he stated at the Zev event.
“I recognized this after my bank account was depleted. [Cryptocurrency] represents ultimate freedom. It’s about managing your finances independently, making your own choices, and escaping authoritarian governments. Cryptocurrency embodies the ultimate 21st-century freedom, a lesson I’ve learned throughout my life.”
This sentiment resonates with the liberal leanings of crypto aficionados, who prize the anonymity and self-determination offered by digital currencies.
Conference panel speaker. Photo: George on the boat
Many attendees became increasingly anti-establishment after Farage’s conflict with NatWest, following the bank’s closure of his accounts. They showed their support for the reformist leader by tweeting selfies during his presentations.
Farage’s hustler-like personality aligns with the cryptocurrency world. He asserts he would have been a crypto trader in the 1980s and expresses a keen interest in dabbling.
His narrative resonates with numerous young entrepreneurs present, who advocate for an internet that ensures anonymity, infiltrating every facet of life while allowing for rapid wealth accumulation.
The flashier, the better appears to be the mantra. At the conference entrance, a black Rolls-Royce Wraith convertible showcases CryptoAutos, a platform enabling purchases or rentals of cars using cryptocurrencies.
The conference featured advanced technology, swag, and gadgets. In a designated area, Sam Altman’s startup WorldCoin showcased a silver sphere inviting participants to scan their eyes as part of a project utilizing biometrics to differentiate between humans and AI entities.
It began rather quietly. The HMRC and the Secret Ledger panel on managing crypto taxation attracted fewer than 40 participants in a space that comfortably accommodated 200. The energy only escalated in the afternoon as Farage’s keynote approached.
“I don’t particularly like him,” mentioned one attendee. “But if he can ease complexities for people in this sector, they will be willing to listen, even if they don’t align with his political viewpoints.”
Zebu Live conference at Tobacco Dock. Photo: George on the boat
Farage stands out as the only prominent British political figure to clearly express his stance on cryptocurrencies. In a move likely to win over many audience members in east London, he proposed legislation to cut capital gains tax on crypto assets from 24% to 10%.
Keir Starmer’s administration aims for the UK to lead in securities tokenization, but the Prime Minister has remained largely silent on the matter. Similarly, Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch has not voiced strong opinions. For Farage, this relatively small yet well-resourced group of crypto enthusiasts presents a significant opportunity.
However, some have expressed concerns about his approach to engaging with the sector. Simon Jones, an investor in open finance startup Burnx, walked out after news of Farage’s participation, labeling the event a “political extravaganza.”
“I believe he shouldn’t have been invited,” Jones commented. “He operates solely on a campaign platform, despite it being an industry event lacking proper oversight.”
“He’s emulating Donald Trump’s tactics here, and Trump has mastered this area, accruing substantial funds.”
The U.S. president has amassed millions in political donations from cryptocurrency billionaires and other tech giants, witnessing a rise in the value of his family’s crypto ventures, thereby enhancing the Trumps’ wealth.
In the UK, however, crypto donations face intense scrutiny due to fears they could disguise the origins of party funding and pave the way for hostile foreign influence.
Liam Byrne, the Labour MP for Birmingham and Hodge Hill, as well as chair of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, contends that crypto donations pose a significant risk to corrupt British politics.
Meanwhile, researchers at the Center for Financial Security (CFS) and the Royal United Services Institute (Rusi) have begun examining the potential threats these donations may pose to democracy, security, and transparency.
As the crowd headed to the afterparty across the road, many seemed unconcerned that they could hold the key to Farage’s political ascent.
“Nigel Farage is one of the rare politicians supportive of cryptocurrencies,” remarked a conference attendee. “He’s shrewd to be here. If the crypto community rallies behind him, he stands to gain significantly.”
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A rare asteroid explosion occurred in France two years ago, raising alarms regarding the planet’s defense against certain rocky bodies.
On February 13, 2023, a small asteroid named 2023 CX1 entered Earth’s atmosphere, creating a streak across the Normandy sky. This event marked one of the rare instances of meteors monitored before atmospheric entry, happening approximately 7 hours ago.
Bright fireballs resulted from the event, with multiple meteorites collected from the ground. Only two asteroids were monitored, and debris was recovered from their descent. The second one was located in Germany in 2024.
Analysis of footage capturing the asteroid’s descent by Aurian Egal from Western University of Ontario and her team revealed remarkable findings. While most asteroids disintegrate upon entering Earth’s atmosphere, the 2023 CX1 maintained its integrity almost entirely until it reached an altitude of 28 km, where it exploded with an energy equivalent to about 0.029 kilotons, resembling 29 tons of TNT.
“It resembled a bomb,” Egal noted, emphasizing that it was “a singular blast that generated a single spherical shockwave, rather than numerous explosions throughout its course.”
At just 72 centimeters, asteroid 2023 CX1 is roughly the size of a beach ball, which posed no significant threat to the ground. However, should a larger asteroid explode in a similar fashion, the potential for damage could be greater compared to one that disintegrates more gradually in the atmosphere.
In 2020, the Novomest Meteor in Slovenia lost around 80% of its mass due to a singular explosion.
This type of fragmentation poses an even greater threat,” Egal warned. “If a larger asteroid exhibits similar behavior, the consequences could be severe. Evacuations may be necessary for extensive areas surrounding the predicted impact site.”
Meteorite fragments of asteroid 2023 CX1 discovered in February 2023 near Dieppe, Normandy, northwest France
Lou Benoist/AFP via Getty Images
The exact reason for the asteroid’s survival at such lower altitudes in the atmosphere remains somewhat enigmatic but may pertain to its origin. 2023 CX1 belongs to the L-chondrite category, likely formed from a precursor body in the inner asteroid belt known as Massalia and contributing to approximately one-third of Earth’s rock samples.
“We observe multiple impact veins within the meteorite,” remarked the eyewitness, highlighting its significant collision history.
This implies that vigilance is imperative for monitoring similar L-chondrite asteroids, especially larger ones, according to Thomas Burbin from Mount Holyoke College, Massachusetts. “Given that this type of meteorite is quite prevalent, it raises considerable concern,” he elaborated. “L-chondrites can inflict more damage than one might anticipate.”
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A recent study by archaeologists investigated round heavy metal objects from Seldal, located in the Haland region of western Sweden. Initially thought to be Bronze Age artifacts due to their shape and size, these objects were determined to be composed of copper-zinc-tin-reed alloys typical of the Iron Age and later periods.
Plano Convex Ingots from Seldal in Harland, Sweden. Image credit: Sabatini et al., doi: 10.1016/j.jasrep.2025.105312.
The ancient ingots were uncovered in the village of Seldal on Sweden’s west coast during the fall of 2022.
This artifact has been identified as a Plano-Convex Ingot.
“Plano-convex ingots, commonly known as ‘bread’ ingots or ‘casting cakes,’ were prevalent during the Bronze Age, though they vary in size, shape, and composition,” explains Serena Sabatini, a researcher at the University of Gothenburg.
“These artifacts are typically round with flat top surfaces and various inflated convex bottoms.”
“They are created by pouring molten metal into shallow molds or cavities in the ground.”
“Most of these ingots exhibit a rough, ‘bubbly’ top surface, indicating they were poured into an open casting mold, while the bottom remains smooth, as it was not exposed to air during production.”
“Due to their straightforward manufacturing process, they are widely found across Eurasia and were utilized both in prehistoric and historical periods.”
The Särdal Ingot measures 14-15.3 cm in diameter, approximately 2.5 cm thick, and weighs 1223.5 grams.
Notably, the ingot’s surface displays significant corrosion, especially on the rough, raised area.
The overall dimensions and weight of the ingot initially suggested it could be a Bronze Age find.
“At first, we believed the Seldal Ingot dated back to the Bronze Age,” the archaeologist noted.
“However, since it was found alone and not dated within an archaeological context, we opted for isotopic and chemical analysis to determine its composition and estimate a time frame.”
The analysis yielded surprising results, revealing that the ingot was made from copper-zinc-tin-reed alloys typical of the Iron Age and later.
“The findings emerged thanks to the collaborative spirit of the international scientific community exploring archaeological topics, allowing us to identify the isotopic and elemental characteristics of the Seldal ingots, which closely resemble artifacts from two sites found in the Iwawa Lakeland region of northeastern Poland.
Research into the Baltic Sea area, which had a robust network connected to western Sweden and southern Scandinavia during the Roman Iron Age, indicates that the alloys from both Seldal and Iwawa Lakeland were present in the region during the latter half of the 1st millennium BCE.
“Thus, we propose that the Plano Convex Ingots from Harland and the ingots from Poland represent the outcomes of a metallic maritime trade linking Scandinavia, the Baltic Sea, and the Iberian Peninsula.”
Their paper will appear in the October 2025 edition of Journal of Archaeological Science: Report.
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Serena Sabatini et al. 2025. Iron Age Metals Trade between the Atlantic and the Baltic Sea: New insights from the first complete Plano-Convex Ingot found in Sweden and Ingot Rod in Iwawa Lakeland, northeastern Poland. Journal of Archaeological Science: Report 66:105312; doi:10.1016/j.jasrep.2025.105312
Utilizing data gathered by NSF’s Gemini South Telescope and NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope, astronomers have identified methane signatures (CH4), water (H2O), and silane (SiH4) in the cold brown dwarf gas WISEA J153429.75-104303.3 (shortened to W1534). Silanes are predicted to act as significant reservoirs of silicon, the element responsible for the large clouds of gas that surround giant worlds, but their presence had remained undetected until now, masked by the development of deep silicate clouds in the observable atmosphere.
This artist’s illustration depicts a brown dwarf with an atmosphere filled with gas and dust clouds. Image credits: Noirlab/NSF/Aura/R. Proctor.
The W1534, referred to as the accident, is situated approximately 50 light years from Earth in the Libra constellation.
This brown dwarf was likely formed between 100 and 120 billion years ago and ranks among the oldest brown dwarfs discovered to date.
First identified in 2020 by citizen scientists participating in the Backyard Worlds: Planet 9 Citizen Science Project, its unusual light profile captivated astronomers.
Using two of the world’s most advanced terrestrial and space-based telescopes, astronomers examined its atmosphere to analyze its properties and composition.
The survey commenced with NSF’s Noirlab Astronomer Sandy Leggett capturing near-infrared images of W1534 with a Gemini South telescope in Chile, part of the International Gemini Observatory.
This initial work laid the groundwork for further explorations using Webb, guided by Noirlab Astronomer Aaron Meisner.
“W1534 is quite faint, and Gemini South is the only ground-based telescope capable of detecting it,” Dr. Meisner stated.
“The Gemini discovery paved the way for Webb’s observations by revealing the deeper atmospheric layers of this mysterious object and enabling us to determine the exposure time necessary to gather useful near-infrared data on its composition.”
Within W1534’s atmosphere, the team uncovered the crucial signature of silane, a compound formed from silicon and four hydrogen atoms.
Planetary scientists have long theorized the existence of this molecule within gas giants, attributing potential significance to its role in cloud formation within the atmosphere.
Despite extensive searches, its atmospheric presence has remained elusive in our solar system’s gas giants, Jupiter and Saturn, although thousands of studies on brown dwarfs and gas giants orbiting other stars have occurred.
This marks the first discovery of silanes in any brown dwarf, exoplanet, or solar system object.
The absence of this molecule in all but one singular brown dwarf suggests intriguing insights into the chemistry occurring in such an ancient environment.
“Often, it is these extreme objects that help us understand the average,” remarked Dr. Jackie Faherty, a researcher at the American Museum of Natural History.
The presence of silanes in W1534’s atmosphere implies that in very ancient objects, silicon is capable of bonding with hydrogen to form lighter molecules that can ascend to the upper layers of a gas giant’s atmosphere.
In contrast, more recently formed objects, such as Jupiter and Saturn, result in silicon bonding with readily available oxygen, producing heavier molecules that settle deeper into the atmospheric layers.
The evidence gleaned from W1534’s atmosphere further validates astronomers’ comprehension of gas giant cloud formation and sheds light on how primitive conditions influence atmospheric composition.
Moreover, it indicates that worlds formed billions of years ago display characteristics distinctly different from those formed during the early solar system.
“The formation and detection of silanes highlight an essential relationship among composition, cloud formation, and atmospheric mingling in cold brown dwarfs and planetary atmospheres,” the authors concluded.
A newly identified quadruple star system, referred to as UPM J1040-3551 AABBAB, comprises a pair of cold brown dwarfs along with young red dwarfs.
An artistic depiction of the UPM J1040-3551 system amidst the Milky Way, as seen by the ESA Gaia satellite. On the left, the UPM J1040-3551 AA&AB is portrayed as a distant bright orange dot, showcasing the two M-shaped stars in orbit. Conversely, in the foreground on the right, a pair of cold brown dwarfs – UPM J1040-3551 BA & BB – have been on a long trajectory from each other for decades, collectively orbiting the UPM J1040-3551 AAB in a vast orbit taking over 100,000 years to complete. Image credits: Jiaxin Zhong / Zenghua Zhang.
The UPM J1040-3551 AABBAB system is situated in the constellation Antlia, approximately 82 light-years from Earth.
In this system, AAB denotes the brighter pairs AA and AB, while BAB refers to the more distant sub-components BA and BB.
“The hierarchical structure of this system makes the findings particularly intriguing, as it is essential for maintaining stable orbits over extended periods,” explains Professor Zenghua Zhang from Nanjing University.
“These two objects have orbited individually for decades, but collectively they have circled a common center of mass for more than 100,000 years.”
The two pairs are separated by 1,656 astronomical units (Au), where 1 Au represents the average distance from the Earth to the Sun.
The brighter pair, UPM J1040-3551 AAB, appears orange when viewed in visible wavelengths.
These stars possess a temperature of 3,200 K (approximately 2,900 degrees Celsius) and have a mass about 17% that of the Sun.
With a visual magnitude of 14.6, this pair is roughly 100,000 times dimmer than Polaris, the North Star, when viewed at visible wavelengths.
The fainter pair, UPM J1040-3551 BAB, comprises two cooler brown dwarfs that emit almost no visible light and are about 1,000 times dimmer than the AAB pair in near-infrared wavelengths.
These brown dwarfs are classified as T-type, with temperatures of 820 K (550 degrees Celsius) and 690 K (420 degrees Celsius), respectively.
“This is the first documented case of a quadruple system featuring a pair of T-type brown dwarfs orbiting two stars,” states Dr. Maricruz Gálvez-Ortiz, an astronomer at the Spanish Center for Astronomy.
“This discovery presents a unique opportunity for studying these enigmatic objects.”
“Brown dwarfs, alongside a diverse array of stellar companions, are invaluable for establishing age benchmarks,” comments Hugh Jones, a professor at the University of Hertfordshire.
“The UPM J1040-3551 system is particularly significant, as H-Alpha emissions from the bright pairs suggest that the system is relatively young, estimated to be between 200 and 300 million years old.”
The research team is optimistic that high-resolution imaging techniques could eventually resolve the brown dwarf pairs, facilitating precise measurements of their orbital dynamics and masses.
“This system offers a dual benefit for brown dwarf science,” remarks Adam Burgaster, a professor at the University of California, San Diego.
“It serves as both an age benchmark for calibrating cold atmospheric models and a mass benchmark for validating evolutionary models, provided that we can effectively resolve and track these brown dwarf binaries.”
“The discovery of the UPM J1040-3551 system marks a significant milestone in enhancing our understanding of these elusive objects and the various formation pathways of stellar systems near our Solar System.”
Findings are detailed in a study published in Monthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society.
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Zh Zhang et al. 2025. Benchmark Brown Dwarf – I. Blue M2 + T5 Wide Binary and Possible Young People [M4 + M4] + [T7 + T8] Hierarchical rectangles. mnras 542(2): 656-668; doi: 10.1093/mnras/staf895
First identified in 1997 and officially classified as a distinct species in 1999, the Indonesian coelacanth (Latimeria menadoensis) is one of only two extant species of coelacanths. This deep-sea fish closely resembles its ancient Cretaceous ancestors.
A deep diver approximately 1 meter behind the Indonesian coelacanth (Latimeria menadoensis) was found at a depth of 144 m in Northern Mark, Indonesia. Image credit: Alexis Chappuis.
Coelacanths belong to the group of fish known as Sarcopterygians and are characterized by their distinctive coastal dwelling.
Long believed extinct for 65 million years, coelacanths were serendipitously rediscovered in 1938 off the coast of South Africa by museum curators and local fishermen.
These fascinating fish possess unique features, including paired fins and lobed fins that resemble highly modified swim bladders.
Together with lungfish, they are among the closest living relatives to tetrapods, exhibiting several morphological traits not present in more distantly related vertebrates, like ray-finned fish.
The coelacanth first appeared in the early Devonian period, gradually diversifying during the Devonian and Carboniferous periods, with peak diversity observed in the early Triassic.
During the Cretaceous, they were classified into two families: the Latimeridae, which has survived as two species in the genus Latimeria, and the now-extinct Mawsoniidae.
Upon the discovery of the first living specimen, its resemblance to many fossilized forms from the Cretaceous period led to it being labeled a “living fossil,” indicating minimal evolutionary change over millions of years.
The two extant species are the coelacanth of the West Indian Ocean (Latimeria chalumnae) found near the Comoros Islands, and the coelacanth in the waters around Sulawesi, Indonesia.
The latter species is far better documented than its African counterpart, making its deep-reef habitat challenging to access for scientific observation, which has primarily relied on submersibles or remotely operated vehicles (ROVs).
Left profile of the Indonesian coelacanth (Latimeria menadoensis), showcasing a unique pattern of white dots. Image credit: Alexis Chappuis.
The Indonesian coelacanth is a rarely documented medium-deep sea fish (non-tetrapod sarcopterygian), originally endemic to the Sulawesi region, primarily identified through bycatch in eastern Indonesia.
“Very few observations of this species have been made in situ, primarily using submersibles and ROVs.”
“The first direct in situ observations were reported following recent reconnaissance dives that explored the suspected habitat of the Indonesian coelacanth at depths exceeding 150 meters.”
Researchers encountered the Indonesian coelacanth in October 2024 during a deep dive in the Marc Archipelago, situated between Sulawesi and Western New Guinea.
“It is premature to assess the population of this newly identified Malukan coelacanth,” they stated.
“Since the Marc Archipelago connects Sulawesi and Western New Guinea, it suggests that the species is not confined to a single location.”
“Our recent findings, along with studies conducted in the mesophotic coral ecosystems of the Marc Archipelago since 2022, not only confirm the existence of Latimeria but also indicate a broader, more suitable habitat for coelacanths.”
“We hope this discovery will motivate local and national authorities to enhance conservation efforts in this biodiversity-rich region.
The research team’s paper was published online on April 23, 2025, in the journal Scientific Reports.
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A. Chapuis et al. 2025. The first record of a living coelacanth from Northern Mark, Indonesia. Sci Rep 15, 14074; doi:10.1038/s41598-025-90287-7
American medical journals are cautioning against the use of ChatGPT for health-related information after a case involving men who developed a rare condition following their discussions with chatbots about eliminating table salt from their diets.
A chronicled case in internal medicine highlights that a 60-year-old man experienced bromism, also referred to as bromide toxicity, after consulting ChatGPT.
This case study mentioned that bromism was a “well-recognized” syndrome in the early 20th century, contributing to psychiatric hospitalizations for about one in ten individuals during that period.
After learning about the negative effects of sodium chloride (table salt), the patient sought guidance from ChatGPT on eliminating chloride from his diet and disclosed that he had been consuming sodium bromide for three months. This action occurred despite previous reading that “chloride can be exchanged for bromide, but is likely for other purposes such as cleaning.” Sodium bromide was historically used as a sedative in the early 20th century.
The article’s author, an alumnus of Washington University in Seattle, emphasized that this incident underscores “how the use of artificial intelligence contributes to preventable health outcomes.”
They noted that the lack of access to the patient’s ChatGPT conversation logs hindered their ability to ascertain the specific advice the man received.
Regardless, the author found that when querying ChatGPT for alternatives to chloride, the responses also included bromide, lacking specific health warnings, and did not inquire about the author’s reasons for seeking such information; “I think healthcare professionals typically would do that,” they remarked.
The author cautioned that ChatGPT and other AI applications can “generate scientific inaccuracies and critically debate results, ultimately spreading misinformation.”
OpenAI, the creator of ChatGPT, was approached for a statement.
The company recently announced an upgrade for its chatbot, asserting that one of its notable strengths lies in health-related queries. Powered by the GPT-5 model, ChatGPT excels in answering health questions and aims to be more proactive in “flagging potential concerns” like serious physical and mental illnesses. However, it stressed that chatbots cannot replace expert advice.
An article published last week before the release of GPT-5 indicated that the patient had likely interacted with an earlier version of ChatGPT.
While recognizing that AI could serve as a conduit between scientists and the public, the article warned that the technology also risks disseminating “decontextualized information,” emphasizing that medical professionals would rarely suggest sodium bromide in response to inquiries about replacing table salt.
The authors encouraged physicians to consider using AI in understanding where patients derived their information.
The author narrated that a patient suffering from bromism introduced himself at a hospital and expressed concern about a neighbor possibly being addicted to him. He also mentioned having several dietary restrictions and was noted to have paranoia regarding the water provided to him despite intense thirst.
The patient attempted to leave the hospital within 24 hours of admission and was subsequently sectioned before receiving treatment for mental health issues. Once stabilized, he reported various other bromism symptoms, including facial acne, relentless thirst, and insomnia.
The newly identified Stephenson 2 DFK 52, an extraordinary red supergiant, is situated within the expansive stellar cluster RSGC2.
This image showcases the red supergiant star Stephenson 2 DFK 52 and its surroundings. Image credits: Alma / ESO / NAOJ / NRAO / Siebert et al.
RSGC2 is a cluster containing at least 26 red supergiants located at the base of the Milky Way’s diagonal crux spiral arm, approximately 5,800 parsecs (18,917 light-years) away.
Also referred to as Stephenson 2, this cluster is an active site for recent star formation where the arms intersect with galaxy bulges.
A team of astronomers led by Mark Siebert from Chalmers University of Technology observed the RSGC2 star using the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA).
“What we catch in this image of Stephenson 2 DFK 52 is indeed a supermassive red star that is shedding clouds of gas and dust as it approaches the end of its lifecycle,” they explained.
“Such nebulae are typically found around supermassive stars; however, this particular cloud presents an intriguing mystery for astronomers.”
“This cloud of ejected material is the most expansive discovered around a giant star, spanning an impressive 1.4 light-years.”
“Stephenson 2 DFK 52 is quite similar to Betelgeuse, another renowned red supergiant, so we anticipated observing a comparable cloud surrounding it.”
“If Stephenson 2 DFK 52 is as close to us as Betelgeuse, the surrounding cloud would appear about one-third the size of the full moon.”
Recent observations from ALMA have enabled astronomers to quantify the mass of material enveloping the star and analyze its velocity.
“Regions moving towards us appear in blue, while those receding are represented in red,” they stated.
“The data suggests that the star experienced a significant mass loss event about 4,000 years ago, followed by a slow-down in its current mass loss rate.”
The team estimates that Stephenson 2 DFK 52 has a mass between 10-15 solar masses and has already lost 5-10% of its mass.
“The rapid expulsion of such materials within a brief time frame poses a mystery,” the researchers commented.
“Could an unusual interaction with a companion star be responsible? Why does the cloud exhibit such a complex shape?”
“Understanding why Stephenson 2 DFK 52 has expelled so much material can illuminate insights into its eventual fate.
Mark A. Sheebert et al. 2025. Discovery of the extraordinary red supergiant Stephenson 2 DFK 52 within the expansive stellar cluster RSGC2. A&A in press; Arxiv: 2507.11609
Two of the five snow leopard cubs recently photographed in Mongolia
SLCF-Mongolia/Snow Leopard Trust
A team of researchers explored two snow leopard dens in the Tost Mountains of Mongolia, studying and capturing images of five cubs, which provided a rare chance to gather data on this endangered species.
Before their expedition in June and July, researchers had not been able to access snow leopard nests globally since 2019. Örjan Johansson of Snow Leopard Trust noted, “The burrows are situated in tight cracks and caves. We only get one opportunity. If the mother returns before we locate the burrow, we have to stop our search. Going back more than once is too intrusive.”
Johansson and Bren Nyam, a local field ranger, pinpointed the burrow’s approximate location by tracking GPS collars that had been previously attached to 20 adult female snow leopards.
The burrow where the cubs were found was located by tracking the mother’s whereabouts
SLCF-Mongolia_snow Leopard Trust
Johansson explained, “The range of female snow leopards’ homes in Mongolia’s South Gobi region typically spans about 130 square kilometers, which is approximately 2.5 times the area of Manhattan. Without the GPS collar, we would not have discovered their burrows.” However, even with the collars, the team had to search an area as vast as 60,000 square meters to pinpoint the exact location.
The snow leopard (Panthera uncia) is categorized as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, with an estimated 3,920 to 6,390 individuals remaining in the wild. These cats inhabit alpine terrains across Central Asia, spanning 2 million square kilometers across 12 countries, including China, India, Kyrgyzstan, and Russia. Their populations face threats from habitat loss, poaching, and conflicts arising from livestock predation.
Johansson noted, “To effectively model and predict population trajectories of multiple species, we must grasp essential factors such as fertility, mortality, and the dynamics of animals entering and leaving an area.” He collaborated with the Snow Leopard Conservation Foundation on this project.
“Visiting the dens is crucial as it is the only means to gather information on average litter sizes and cub survival rates during their first five to six months. Before this age, cubs typically remain secluded with their mothers. Accessing the burrow allows researchers to collect invaluable data that would otherwise be unattainable. Such information is essential for enhancing understanding of snow leopard ecology and informing conservation strategies for a sustainable future.”
Apple has entered into a $500 million agreement with a US company specializing in rare earth magnets, crucial for the production of electronic devices, following China’s reduction in rare and essential material exports.
This support comes after MP Materials, which runs the only rare earth mine in the US, finalized a multi-billion dollar agreement with the US Department of Defense last week, making the Pentagon its largest shareholder. Both agreements aim to address supply chain vulnerabilities after China limited its rare earth exports earlier this year in response to Donald Trump’s sweeping tariffs.
The deal, revealed on Tuesday, guarantees Apple a consistent supply of rare earth magnets from China, the world’s leading producer. Analysts noted that the cost of bolstering US magnet production is minimal compared to the long-term risk of completely losing access to vital components for Apple.
“We are currently in an era where executives are willing to invest significantly for a dependable supply chain. They want to avoid interruptions,” remarked Greserin Bascaran, director of the Centre for Strategic and International Research’s Centre for Key Mineral Security Program.
Rare earth elements, a collection of 17 metals, are vital for creating powerful magnets, which are found in devices that vibrate mobile phones, as well as in weaponry, electric vehicles, and numerous other electronic products.
China imposed export limitations on rare earths in April in reaction to Trump’s tariffs. In June, the US and China reached an accord that settled many disputes over rare earths, but broader trade tensions still emphasize the need for non-Chinese supplies.
Under the agreement, Apple will prepay $20 million to MP for magnets due to start delivery in 2027. The duration of the transaction and the quantity of magnets involved were not disclosed by the company.
The agreement stipulates that magnets will be produced from recycled materials, aligning with Apple’s longstanding commitment to reducing dependence on mining. The magnets will be processed using operations in Fort Worth, MP, Texas, and recycled at Mountain Pass, MP, California.
“Rare earth materials are critical for developing advanced technologies, and this collaboration will enhance the availability of these essential materials in the United States,” stated Apple CEO Tim Cook in a statement.
Since the government announced its deal, MP Material’s stock price has nearly doubled. This is a notable turnaround from last year when CEO Jim Richinski expressed frustration over rare earth pricing that led to the merger with Australian competitors.
Bob O’Donnell, president of market research firm Technalysis Research, noted that Tuesday’s development is “entirely significant,” given Apple’s substantial requirement for rare earth magnets in its devices.
“Additionally, by prioritizing US-based suppliers, we will help position Apple more proactively within Washington,” he added.
Apple stated that this agreement forms part of a four-year, $500 million investment commitment towards the US, while facing threats from Trump regarding an iPhone not manufactured in the US. Nevertheless, many analysts argue creating an iPhone in the US is impractical, given labor costs and the existing smartphone supply chain.
While Apple did not specify which devices will utilize the magnets, MP mentioned that this deal will provide magnets for hundreds of millions of devices, significantly impacting Apple’s product lineup.
MP expects to start producing mined and processed rare earth materials and commercial magnet production at its Texas facility by the end of this year.
Rare diseases often elude early diagnosis, remaining undetected until significant organ damage occurs. Recently, UK Health Secretary Wes Streeting announced a 10-year initiative to integrate genetic testing for specific rare conditions into the standard neonatal screening process across the UK. This approach aims to ensure early intervention before symptoms manifest, aligning with ongoing global viability programs in places like the US and Australia. Yet, questions arise about the scientific validity of such measures.
The genome, akin to a book written in a novel language, is only partially understood. Decades of research on high-risk families have shed light on some genetic mutations, but there remains limited knowledge about the implications of population-level genetic testing for those at low risk. While this screening may prove advantageous for certain children and families, it might also lead to unnecessary tests and treatments for others.
Many genetic conditions involve more than just a single genetic mutation. For example, individuals with a variant of the hnf4a gene and a strong family history of rare diabetes have a 75% risk of developing the condition; conversely, those with the same variant but without a family history face only a 10% risk. It is misleading to assume genetic variants behave uniformly across all populations. Perhaps families carrying the hnf4a variant lack other unrecognized protective genes, or specific environmental factors might interplay with genetic risks to lead to diabetes.
The proposed neonatal screening program presupposes that genetic variants linked to diseases signify equally high risks for all, which is rarely the case. The exploration of disease-related variations in healthy populations is just starting. Until this research is thorough, we will not know how many individuals carry a variant that does not result in illness, possibly due to other protective factors. Should we really subject newborns to genetic hypotheses?
Furthermore, ethical concerns emerge from this initiative. How do we secure informed consent from parents when testing for hundreds of conditions simultaneously? In the near future, a genetic database encompassing all living individuals could become a reality—what safeguards will exist for its use and protection?
Screening newborns is not new, but the scope of conditions included in this initiative, the complexity of interpreting results, and the sensitivity of the information gathered pose unique challenges. I worry that parents may feel compelled to accept the test, yet not all uncertainties will be appropriately managed. I fear that important early life stages could become burdened with unnecessary hospital visits. Additionally, the pressure on parents and pediatricians to decide on potentially invasive testing for healthy infants is concerning.
A prudent step would be to gather more data on the prevalence and behavior of genetic mutations in the wider population before utilizing genetic testing as a speculative screening tool for children. The potential benefits may be overshadowed by significant risks.
This exceptional footage captures a large group of sharks calmly feeding on decaying corpses off the coast of Hawaii.
The marine White Tip and Tiger sharks displayed no aggressive behavior toward one another or the film crew, and they shared the bloated remains with ease.
Marine biologists at the University of Hawaii Manoa conducted a study on this event, publishing their findings in the Science Journal Frontier of Fish Science.
First Author Dr. Molly Scott stated, “To our knowledge, this is the first study documenting the feeding aggregation of tiger sharks and marine white tip sharks.”
“These species are seldom seen together in the wild due to their vastly different habitats.”
Ocean white tips can grow to lengths of up to 2 meters and are threatened by roaming sharks, although they occasionally visit Hawaii’s Oshima during the spring and summer.
In contrast, tiger sharks can reach lengths of 4 meters and are more coastal, preferring to stay in the same area throughout the year.
According to Scott, witnessing these two species in the same location is “incredibly rare,” especially as they shared the food with no conflict.
“We observed up to 12 small individual sharks feeding intermittently on very decomposed corpses, and we saw no aggressive behavior, whether interspecific or intraspecies,” she noted.
“This amazed me. I expected some aggressiveness when multiple sharks were feeding around these small corpses, but it appeared that each shark understood its role in the social hierarchy.”
It appears that the social order allowed the larger sharks to feed first, except that smaller female tiger sharks tended to dominate the two largest marine white tips.
“Some individuals, like female tiger sharks, may have been either shy or bold about their size,” Scott explained. “They might not have been welcomed to join in, as the feeding order was already established before they arrived.”
The smallest sharks remained just beneath the surface, snacking on scraps.
While all these sharks are primarily hunters, they may engage in cleaning when opportunities arise, such as when they detect a body.
The floating carcass was first spotted in April 2024 by a tourist boat about 10 km off the west coast of Big Island.
The observed feeding lasted 8.5 hours, with at least nine marine white tip sharks and five tiger sharks participating, while a few individuals were in the water the whole time.
“None of the photographers reported any frightening, aggressive, or harmful interactions with the sharks,” Scott remarked. “I hope this presents a new perspective that sharks are not the mindless predators they are often portrayed to be.”
Researchers also aim for this unusual observation to deepen the understanding of shark behavior, particularly their interactions with one another.
Baby KJ Rebecca Affles Nicklas and Kiran Musnul after gene editing injection with researchers
Philadelphia Children’s Hospital
A young boy afflicted with a serious genetic disorder is set to be the first recipient of personalized CRISPR gene editing treatments, offering a glimpse into the potential future of medicine.
This groundbreaking event marks the first instance of an individual receiving a gene editing therapy tailored to correct unique mutations contributing to their illness. Rebecca Ahrens-Nicklas explained during a press briefing held at Children’s Hospital in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, “He is showing early signs of progress,” though she noted that it’s premature to determine the complete effectiveness of the treatment.
Researchers released information promptly, aiming to motivate others, as stated by team member Kiran Musnur at the University of Pennsylvania. “We sincerely hope that demonstrating the feasibility of personalized gene editing therapy for one patient within a few months will encourage additional efforts in this area,” he remarked.
“When I refer to this as the future of medicine, I believe I’m stating a fact,” he emphasized. “This is a crucial step towards employing gene editing therapies to address a range of rare genetic disorders that currently lack viable treatment options.”
KJ inherited mutations on both alleles of a liver enzyme gene known as CPS1. The absence of this enzyme leads to ammonia accumulating in the bloodstream, posing a risk of brain damage during the breakdown of dietary proteins. According to Ahrens-Nicklas, over half of children born with CPS1 deficiency do not survive.
She and Musnur are developing therapies targeting this condition by focusing on the liver, allowing them to rapidly formulate a basic editing therapy that modifies one of KJ’s two CPS1 gene copies.
The team engaged with US regulatory bodies early in the process. “They recognized the exceptional nature of this situation,” Musnur stated. “KJ was critically ill and time was of the essence. Following our official submission to the FDA [Food and Drug Administration] when KJ was six months old, we received approval within just a week.”
KJ underwent initial low-dose treatment at six months in February 2025, followed by higher doses in March and April. He is now able to consume more protein than before, albeit while still taking other medications for his condition.
Ideally, children should receive treatment earlier to mitigate long-term damages linked to conditions like CPS1 deficiency. As reported by New Scientist, Musnur has ambitions to enable gene editing in humans prior to birth one day.
In contrast, other gene editing therapies are designed for broader applications, aiming to work for many individuals irrespective of the specific mutations causing their condition. For instance, the first approved gene editing treatment for sickle cell disease functions by enhancing fetal hemoglobin production, rather than altering the mutations in adult hemoglobin responsible for the disorder. Despite being a “one-size-fits-all” solution, it comes at a price of £1,651,000 per treatment in the UK, as noted by Each treatment course costs £1,651,000.
KJ with his family after treatment
Philadelphia Children’s Hospital
Custom treatments can be significantly more costly. Musnur mentioned that he cannot provide exact figures for KJ’s treatment due to the extensive pro bono work by the involved companies. However, he is optimistic about a decline in costs. “As we enhance our methods, we can anticipate economies of scale, leading to a substantial reduction in prices,” he stated.
One barrier to the development of personalized gene editing therapies has been the regulatory perspective, which previously treated therapies targeting different mutations within the same gene as separate entities. This necessitated restarting the approval process for each mutation individually. However, there’s a growing movement towards a platform approach, allowing broader approvals for treatments targeting various mutations.
“Platform-based methods, like CRISPR gene editing, offer scalable solutions for even the rarest diseases, as exemplified by KJ’s case,” stated Nick Mead from Genetic Alliance UK, a charity that advocates for individuals with rare conditions. “This development finally renders treatment a plausible possibility for countless families.”
A tale is shared about miners who discovered copper cans in early mining-era dumps. According to them, wastewater from copper mining flowed across his land, transforming steel cans into copper.
The tale may not be entirely true, but the process is factual and is known as cementation. Montana Resource, which succeeded the Anaconda Copper Company, still employs this alchemical method in the operations at the Continental Pitmine in Butte, Montana.
Adjacent to the mine lies the Berkeley Pit, filled with 50 billion gallons of highly acidic and toxic liquid. Montana Resource channels this liquid from the pits to cascade down iron piles, converting iron into copper for production.
While there have long been methods for extracting metals from water, recent years have ushered in a global rush for metals—vital for manufacturing and technological advancements—leading to a new wave of extraction methods and processes.
Researchers are currently focusing on mineral-rich sources like wastewater, including saline water from desalination plants, oil and gas fracking water, and mining wastewater. Researchers at Oregon State University estimate that the saline water from desalination plants alone contains approximately $2.2 trillion worth of metals.
“Water is a mineral reservoir of the 21st century,” stated Peter S. Fisuke, director of the National Water Innovation Alliance in California at the Department of Energy’s Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. “Today’s technology allows us to gather wastewater and extract valuable resources.”
There is extensive research dedicated to recovering rare earth elements—metallic elements sought after due to their increasing demand—from waste. For instance, researchers at Indiana Geological Water Survey at Indiana University are Mining rare earths in coal waste which includes fly ash and coal tails. Additionally, researchers at the University of Texas Austin have created membranes that imitate nature for Separating rare earths from waste.
Utilizing mining wastewater is not only quicker and more economical than establishing a new mine, but it also generates lesser environmental impact.
The vast, contaminated reservoirs in the pit near Butte contain two light rare earth elements (REEs): neodymium and praseodymium. These are crucial for creating small yet powerful magnets, medical technologies, and enhancing defense applications like precision-guided missiles and electric vehicles. Notably, an F-35 Fighter Jet uses around 900 pounds of rare earth metals.
“We’re transforming significant liabilities into assets that contribute to national defense,” remarked Mark Thompson, vice president of environmental affairs at Montana Resources. “There’s a lot of complex metallurgy at play here—the real cutting-edge science.”
This is a crucial moment for exploring domestic rare earth production. The U.S. currently lags behind China, and President Trump’s trade tensions have raised concerns that China may tighten its rare earth mineral exports in response to U.S. tariffs. Experts in mineral security at the Center for Strategic and International Research warn that this gap could enable China to accelerate its defense advancements more swiftly than the U.S.
The Trump administration is particularly fixated on Greenland and Ukraine due to their valuable rare earth deposits.
Trump has recently authorized the government to commence mining on much of the seabed, including areas in international waters, to tap into mineral wealth.
There are 17 distinct types of rare earth metals identified in the Berkeley Pit. While not rare in abundance, they are often deemed scarce due to their dispersion in small quantities.
Rare earths are divided into two categories: heavy and light. Heavy rare earths, including dysprosium, terbium, and yttrium, tend to have larger atomic masses, making them more scarce and thus typically traded in smaller quantities, leading to shortages. In contrast, light rare earths are characterized by a lower atomic mass.
Acid mine drainage is a hazardous pollutant created when sulfur-containing pyrite within rocks interacts with oxygen and water during mining. This process results in the formation of sulfuric acid, which poisons waterways. This environmental issue affects thousands of abandoned mines, contaminating 12,000 miles of streams across the nation.
However, acids facilitate the dissolution of zinc, copper, rare earths, and other minerals from rock formations, presenting an opportunity for extraction techniques that were not previously available.
Paul Ziemkievich, director of the Water Institute at West Virginia University, has been researching Butte’s pit water for 25 years. Alongside a team from Virginia Tech and the chemical engineering firm L3 process development, they developed a method to extract crucial metals from acid mine drainage originating from West Virginia coal mines, the same approach utilized in Butte. Large, densely woven plastic bags filled with sludge from the water treatment plant are employed, allowing water to seep through slowly and yielding about 1-2% rare earth preconcentrate, which requires further refining through chemical processes. The final patented step involves a solvent extraction method that results in pure rare earth elements.
“One of the remarkable aspects of acid mine drainage is that our concentrations are particularly rich in heavy rare earths,” explained Dr. Ziemkiewicz. “Light rare earths carry a lesser value.”
The Butte project is awaiting news on a $75 million grant from the Department of Defense, which is critical for enhancing rare earth enrichment and commencing full-scale production.
Zinc is also abundant in the acid mine drainage mixture and serves as an essential financial asset for the process as it commands a higher market price. Nickel and cobalt are also extracted.
Demand for rare earth elements is high; however, China dominates production, manipulating prices to maintain low costs and stifle competition. This is why the Department of Defense funds various projects focused on rare earth elements and other metals. The U.S. operates only a single rare earth mine in Mountain Pass, California, which produces roughly 15% of the global supply of rare earths.
The Berkeley Pit has posed a chronic problem since 1982, when Anaconda copper companies ceased their open-pit mining operations and halted water pumping, causing it to become filled with water. The acidity levels from the mine’s drainage have proven dangerous; in 2016, thousands of snow geese that landed in the pit quickly succumbed to poisoning, with around 3,000 birds reported dead.
The Atlantic Richfield Company and Montana Resources play crucial roles in permanently treating pit water to avert pollutioning the surrounding groundwater (Montana Resources operates the continental pit adjacent to the Berkeley Pit). The Clean Water Act mandates that companies manage acid mine drainage, and enhancing treatment capabilities at the local horseshoe bend plant is more cost-effective than developing a new facility, which may also offset treatment costs while boosting profits.
Numerous research initiatives have been launched to extract suspended metals from the water. Thompson displayed a map illustrating where radiation was emitted from Butte and where water samples have been dispatched to research facilities nationwide. However, the ongoing metal production process stands as the first to demonstrate profitability.
The mineral wealth present in this region has been recognized for many years; however, extracting it has proven challenging until Dr. Ziemkiewicz’s team innovated new methods. They generate rare earths from two coal mines in West Virginia, where acid mine drainage presents ongoing issues. Each of these mines yields about 4 tons of rare earths annually.
On the other hand, the Berkeley Pit is projected to produce 40 tons annually, bolstered by significantly higher concentrations of rare earths in solution and substantial water content. Dr. Ziemkiewicz believes that this method, when applied to other mines, could potentially satisfy nearly all domestic rare earth requirements for defense-related uses.
However, certain forecasts project that demand for rare earths may surge by as much as 600% in the next few decades.
Lawrence Berkeley laboratories are investigating technologies related to water filtration, particularly experimental approaches to improve membranes, as part of their overarching efforts to purify water, recover significant minerals, and produce necessary minerals. They operate a particle accelerator known as an advanced light source, which generates bright X-ray light that enables scientists to examine various materials at an atomic scale.
The lab has collaborated with external researchers to develop a new generation of filters referred to as nanosponges, designed to capture specific target molecules like lithium.
“It’s akin to an atom catcher’s mitt,” explained Adam Uliana, CEO of Chemfinity, a Brooklyn company exploring the use of nanosponges to purify a variety of waste. “It only captures one type of metal.”
In addition to rare earths, lithium, cobalt, and magnesium have gained significant attention from researchers.
Ion exchange, a well-established technology for extracting metals from water and purifying contaminants, is also gaining interest. Lilac Solutions, a startup based in Oakland, California, has developed specialized resin beads to extract lithium from brine via ion exchange, with plans for their first production facility in Great Salt Lake, Utah.
The company’s technology involves pumping brine through an ion exchange filter to extract minerals, returning water to its source with minimal environmental disruption. If this approach proves viable on a larger scale, it could revolutionize lithium extraction, significantly decreasing the necessity for underground mines and open-pit operations.
Maglathea Metal is an Auckland-based startup that produces magnesium ingots from the saline effluent generated by desalinating seawater. The company processes the brine, which consists of magnesium chloride salts, using a current powered by renewable energy to heat the solution, resulting in the separation of salt from molten magnesium.
CEO Alex Grant noted that the process is exceptionally clean, although it has yet to be applied to magnesium production. Much of the company’s work is funded by the Department of Defense.
With China accounting for 90% of global magnesium production, the current smelting process, known as the Pidgeon process, is highly polluting and carbon-intensive, involving heating to around 2,000 degrees using coal-fired kilns. Dr. Fisuke anticipates further innovations on the horizon.
“Three converging factors are at play,” he stated. “The value of these critical materials is climbing, the expenses associated with traditional mining and extraction are escalating, and reliance on international suppliers, particularly from Russia and China, is diminishing.”
The Chinese government has long been exerting control over the export of rare earths, a group of metals crucial for products like semiconductors and light. In the ongoing trade war with the US, China is taking further steps to restrict the market for these metals, potentially impacting American manufacturing and military capabilities. So, why are rare earths so important?
What are rare earths?
Rare earths consist of 17 types of metals across the periodic table, essential for various industries such as technology, energy, and transportation. Names like terbium, praseodymium, and dysprosium are important ingredients in advanced technologies.
These metals can be categorized into heavy and light rare earths, with heavy ones being rarer and selling in smaller quantities. Light rare earths like neodymium and praseodymium are crucial for creating magnets.
What are they used for?
Rare earths have diverse applications, from semiconductor chips powering AI to electric vehicle motors and military equipment. They also enhance heat resistance in products like magnets, glass, lights, and batteries, making them valuable for industries.
Some rare earths possess unique chemical properties that make them ideal for producing high-quality magnets, glass, lights, and batteries. Magnets made from rare earths are exceptionally powerful and essential for electric vehicles.
Does the US produce rare earths?
The US has only one operational rare earth mine in Mountain Pass, California, contributing about 15% to the global market. In the past, the US was a significant rare earth producer, but its production declined over the years compared to China.
Where do rare earths come from?
Rare earths are mined from rock deposits, with China dominating nearly 70% of the market. China’s control over rare earths’ production and export has geopolitical implications, impacting various industries worldwide.
What will the impact of China’s restrictions on rare earths?
If China restricts rare earth exports, American sectors like automotive may face production halts. The US military could also be impacted, leading to shortages of essential equipment like drones and missiles. Tech giants like Nvidia and Apple could also feel the effects.
Many rare earth mining businesses in China have been under private or foreign ownership, but the government’s efforts to consolidate the industry could lead to complete control over manufacturing and exports.
A new species of dinosaurs has been uncovered in the Gobi Desert, Mongolia. Known as Duonychus tsogtbaatari, this dinosaur possessed two feet long claw fingers on each hand, belonging to the Teresino Sauria.
Referred to as Duonychus, which is the Greek term for two claws, this dinosaur stood approximately 10 feet tall, weighed around 570 pounds, and was part of the Therizinosaurs group. It displayed a unique set of characteristics, including feathers.
These dinosaurs existed in Asia and North America during the Cretaceous period, spanning from 145 to 66 million years ago.
Despite having only two claws, researchers described Duonychus in a study published in the JournalIscience as an “effective climber” capable of reaching branches or vegetation masses up to five inches in diameter.
A claw belonging to Duonychus Tsogtbaatari, excavated in Mongolia.Kobayashi et al. / Science via Reuters
NBC News reached out to the research team for additional comments.
The fossil specimen was unearthed in 2012 by scientists at the Institute of Paleontology at the Mongolian Academy of Sciences, dating back 90 million years and showcasing exceptional diversity.
Although the fossil was a partial skeleton missing the skull and legs, the hands were remarkably well-preserved. The Duonychus individuals were not fully grown, and their claws measured approximately 1 foot in length.
Therodinosaurus belonged to a group of herbivorous dinosaurs such as tyrannosaurus and spinosaurus, but mainly consumed leaves from large shrubs and trees.
The discovery of Duonychus and its two claws was described as remarkable by Michael Benton, a vertebrate paleontology professor at the University of Bristol, UK, who was not involved in the study.
Initially, dinosaurs possessed five fingers like humans, eventually losing two over time, leading to the majority having three fingers, Benton explained in an email to NBC News on Wednesday.
Benton highlighted that the number of digits did not impact their capabilities, mentioning that the third finger was shorter in length, potentially serving a specific purpose.
He emphasized the vast diversity and varied shapes and functions of dinosaurs, stating that they are incredibly diverse.
According to the study, the fossil records of Terazinosauria are particularly abundant in Cretaceous sediments in East Asia, particularly in Mongolia and China.
Observe the night sky tonight to witness a rare event known as the “Planet Parade,” where the planets in our solar system align in a row. This phenomenon involves Mars, Jupiter, Mercury, Venus, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune appearing in a straight line for a unique celestial display. This rare occurrence will not happen again until 2040.
The best time to view this spectacular event is on the evening of Friday, February 28th, 2025, when all seven planets will be visible in the sky. Astrophysicists like David Armstrong emphasize the significance of this planetary alignment and the rarity of such an occurrence.
To best observe this phenomenon, head outdoors just after sunset to catch a glimpse of Mercury, Mars, Venus, Jupiter, and Saturn. For a more detailed view, consider using binoculars or a telescope to see the distinctive features of each planet. Find a dark, remote spot away from city lights for the optimal viewing experience.
Where should I look to see the planets?
Identifying the planets in the sky can be challenging, but each has its unique brightness and position. Look for Venus in the west, the brightest object after sunset, followed by Jupiter overhead. Keep an eye out for Mercury, the closest planet to the sun, as it remains low on the horizon. The planets’ loose alignment creates a visual path across the sky, making it easier to track their movements.
Why is this planetary parade happening?
The alignment of planets is a result of their orbits in the zodiac plane, creating the illusion of alignment from Earth’s perspective. While this alignment is purely visual and does not have a significant impact on Earth, it provides a fascinating celestial display for observers to enjoy.
Meet our experts
Dr. Sham Balaji: A researcher at King’s College London, specializing in cosmic particle physics and cosmology.
Matt Burley: An astronomer and reader at the University of Leicester’s Department of Physics and Astronomy.
David Armstrong: An associate professor at Warwick University focusing on planet detection and the Neptinia desert.
It's published today International Polar Bear Daynew research will answer questions by showing the first combination of satellite tracking colors and remote camera traps Polar bear (Ursus Maritimus)) Denning is notoriously difficult to study as polar bear moms create dens under the snow in remote areas.
Shooter et al. It reveals the first detailed view of polar bear cults coming out of their burrows. Image credits: Jon Aars/Norwegian Polar Institute.
Turnip survival supports species survival, and denning is the most vulnerable period of life. Less than 50% of Cubs can become adults.
As industry expands in the Arctic, this study highlights the importance of uninterrupted Denning regions to protect polar bear populations.
“Polar bear mothers have increased difficulty replicating due to climate-based changes and could face additional challenges associated with expanding human footprints in the Arctic,” said Dr. Louise Archer, a researcher at the University of Toronto Scarborough University.
“We are excited to introduce new tools to monitor bears during this vulnerable period and gain insight into action across the Arctic.
“Every den we monitor has its own story, and every data point adds to this critical understanding of time and supports a more effective conservation strategy.”
In their study, the authors monitored the behavior of the polar bears in Den Emans held in Svalbad, Norway.
Female polar bears were equipped with GPS satellite collars recording their location, temperature and activity.
Researchers used these collar data to find burrows and traveled through the mountains of Svalbad to deploy time-lapse camera traps at 13 densites over six years.
They found that camera traps provide fine-scale insight into the behavior of the maternal Den, and that satellite collars are accurate and useful for monitoring bears in more remote locations for longer periods of time.
The family appeared in Svalbarbad around March 9th and appeared to abandon the burrow earlier than previously recorded in this group, and further monitoring was needed to establish whether this was a continuing trend.
Changing the timing of denning can put a risk to the cubs' survival as they will less time to develop before they can proceed further towards the sea ice.
In some cases, the bears appeared from the burrow in less than a minute before returning inside, while other appearances lasted for several hours.
In terms of departing den forever, camera footage showed that polar bears remained near the burrow to stay on average for 12 days.
However, this ranged between 2-31 days and was very different among polar bear families.
Some moms switched dens – they were observed leaving their original dens and moving their families to new dens.
Cubs are heavily dependent on their mothers and rarely venture out in their dens alone. The Cubs were only seen in 5% without mothers. In Svalbad, they rely on their mothers for up to 2.5 years.
“This study gives us a total glimpse into one of the most vulnerable and important periods of polar bear life and provides insights that will help guide our collective conservation efforts.”
“Combining innovative technology and long-term research gives us a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by polar bear moms and cubs in the rapidly changing Arctic.”
“Conserving Denning's habitat is essential for population health, and this study provides invaluable insights that can help guide conservation management.”
“There were few studies that included observational data at polar bear burrow sites, and therefore this study contributes significantly to our knowledge of denning ecology,” said Dr. John Arles, a senior researcher at the Norwegian Polar Institute.
Furthermore, data from the satellite radio collar was available to all mothers, and observational data allowed us to communicate how recorded activity and temperature changes corresponded to behavior. ”
study It will be displayed in Journal of Wildlife Management.
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Louise C. Archer et al. Monitoring the phenology and behavior of polar bears during the emergence of den using cameras and satellite telemetry. Journal of Wildlife ManagementPublished online on February 26th, 2025. doi: 10.1002/jwmg.22725
Paleontologists from Western University of Health Sciences, Brigham Young University, Arizona Museum of Natural History, and Auburn University reported on the new specimen. haplocanthosaurus Based on bones excavated from the Dry Mesa Dinosaur Quarry near Delta, Colorado, USA.
Artist's impression Haplocanthosaurus delphis. Image credit: Michael BH / CC BY-SA 3.0.
haplocanthosaurus is a small genus of middle sauropod dinosaur that lived during the Late Jurassic Period, 155 to 152 million years ago.
Currently, only members of this genus are known. Haplocanthosaurus delphis and Haplocanthosaurus Priscus.
“haplocanthosaurus is a mysterious sauropod excavated from the Upper Jurassic Morrison Formation of the western United States,” said a paleontologist at Western Health University. Matthew Wedel And my colleagues.
“haplocanthosaurus Far fewer individuals (approximately 11 specimens) are known compared to many of the famous Morrison Formation sauropods, such as Apatosaurus, diplodocusand camarasaurusall of which are known from some of over 100 individuals. ”
“Furthermore, important parts of the skeleton, such as the skull, forelimbs, and manus and pes, have not been recovered or described to date.”
“As a genus, haplocanthosaurus “It occurs in many positions on the phylogeny,” they added.
“Studies have found it just outside of basal diplodocoids, basal megafauna, or possibly neosauropods, indicating a precarious position in the sauropod phylogeny.”
“However, most recent studies have converged towards recovery. haplocanthosaurus as a basal diplodocoid. ”
Block of the three anterior dorsal vertebrae haplocanthosaurus Stored in articulations. Scale bar – 10 cm. Image credit: Boisvert others., doi: 10.1002/ar.25520.
new specimen of haplocanthosaurus It was discovered at the Dry Mesa Dinosaur Quarry near Delta, Colorado.
It consists of three anterior dorsal vertebrae, four separate posterior dorsal vertebrae, and the right tibia.
“The new individual is haplocanthosaurus “Identified based on the presence of dorsally angled transverse processes, high neural arch crus, and wide distal tibia,” the researchers said.
geologically youngest haplocanthosaurus Specimens from the Colorado Plateau.
“This individual extends the range of this genus into the true Brushy Basin member of the Morrison Formation,” the authors said.
Colin Boisvert others. 2024. New specimen description haplocanthosaurus From Dry Mesa Dinosaur Quarry. anatomical records 307 (12): 3782-3800;doi: 10.1002/ar.25520
Paleontologists have identified a new genus and species of whitefly from fossils found in Miocene crater lake deposits at Hindon Mar, near Dunedin, Otago, South Island, New Zealand.
Close-up of two small pupae Miotetraleurodes novaezelandiae It is attached to the leaves of angiosperms. Image credit: Drohojowska others., doi: 10.1007/s12549-024-00628-z.
Adult whiteflies are small insects about 3 mm in size, and immatures are even smaller.
The fossil discovered at Hindon Maar is approximately 1.5mm x 1.25mm and was preserved by pasting it on the back of a fossilized leaf.
It has a black, oval body and has some similarities with modern whiteflies, such as shape and color, but differs in that all parts of the body are clearly defined by deep sutures.
“Fossils of adult whiteflies are not uncommon, but unusual circumstances are required for the pupa (the protective shell in which the insect emerges) to become fossilized,” says palaeontologist at the University of Göttingen and former postdoctoral researcher at the University of Göttingen. says Dr. Uwe Kaulfus. University of Otago.
“About 15 million years ago, the pupal leaves must have been torn off the tree, blown into a small lake, sunk to the deep lake bed, become covered in sediment, and become fossils.”
“It must have happened in quick succession because the fossils of the small insects are so well preserved.”
“The new genera and species described in our study are Miotetraleurodes novaezelandiaerevealed for the first time that whitefly insects were an ecological component of ancient forests in the South Island. ”
“It was difficult to see much with the naked eye, but when we looked at the fossils under a microscope we could see amazing details,” said Emeritus Professor Daphne Lee from the University of Otago.
“The fact that they are still alive on leaves is incredible and extremely rare.”
“These small fossils are the first of their kind to be found in New Zealand, and only the third pupa fossil of this type known worldwide.”
“These new discoveries from the Otago fossil site are an important contribution to our understanding of New Zealand's past biodiversity and forest ecosystem history. It means we have a new appreciation for the importance of it.”
“Most people are interested in big fossils, big charismatic fossils, but most of the animals in the forest are insects.”
“New Zealand is home to 14,000 insect species, 90% of which are found nowhere else in the world.”
“The discovery of these tiny fossils shows that this insect group has been present in Aotearoa New Zealand for at least 15 million years.”
“This provides a well-dated calibration point for molecular phylogenetic studies.”
of study Published in a magazine Paleobiodiversity and paleoenvironment.
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J. Drohojovska others. The first Miocene whiteflies and parrots (Hemiptera: Sternorrhyncha: Aleyrodoidea and Psylloidea) from Aotearoa, New Zealand. Paleobio Paleoembupublished online on October 1, 2024. doi: 10.1007/s12549-024-00628-z
Archaeologist removing excess mud from a Bronze Age plow
wessex archeology
A Bronze Age wooden spade has been unearthed by British archaeologists. It is extremely rare that wooden artifacts from such an ancient period have been preserved.
This spade offers a glimpse into life at a time when people grew crops and increasingly lived in settled communities.
“It’s very specific,” he says ed treasure At Wessex Archaeology, Salisbury, UK. “It’s a very direct connection to the past.”
The spade was discovered in a bog near Poole Harbor on England’s south coast, where Wessex Archeology has been excavating for several years. of The Moors of the Arne Coastal Change Project is working to restore the region’s coastal wetlands, and archaeologists are carrying out excavations to ensure that no useful artifacts are accidentally lost.
The researchers were digging a ring gully, a circular trench that is thought to have originally surrounded the shelter. In one of the ring gullies they found the handle of a spade. “It was an almost unbelievable moment,” says Treasure, who was not personally present. “I could tell right away that it was a carved piece of wood.” The spade was carved from a single piece of oak.
Moist conditions did not expose the shovel to oxygen, slowing down rot.
Using debris found with the spade, the team radiocarbon-dates the spade to 3,400 to 3,500 years ago. “A small part of the spade broke off during the burial, but we used it as a date,” Treasure said. Nearby pottery also showed a similar age. This dates the origins of the spade back to the Middle Bronze Age.
“We’re in the midst of some pretty big changes in prehistoric Britain,” Treasure says. People stopped living as nomads and began spending more time in settled communities, growing a variety of grains and other foods.
However, there are no signs of permanent settlement at this location throughout the year. Of course, it was and still is a wetland. “We strongly believe this is a seasonal use of this landscape,” Treasure says. People may have brought in animals for summer grazing, cut peat for fuel, or collected reeds for thatching.
Future research will try to understand how plows were made and what they were used for. “It may have been used to cut peat on site,” Treasure said. “It may also have been used to dig the ring ditch where it was discovered.”
It is rare that a spade from this era has been preserved. One of the only other examples is the Brynlow shovel. Discovered in Cheshire in 1875rediscovered in the 1950s It was discovered by fantasy author Alan Garner in a school assembly hall and was eventually radiocarbon dated to almost 4,000 years ago.
A rare and lively encounter between a young wombat and an echidna has been caught on camera, delighting conservationists in Australia.
This active behaviour, captured on camera traps, is the work of the endangered northern hairy-nosed wombat (Laciorhinus kleftii) is proving successful.
At their lowest point in the late 1990s, with just 35 remaining in a small reserve in central Queensland, wombats were one of the rarest large mammals on the planet. Today, thanks to hard work, wombats' numbers have grown to around 400. In 2009, relocations began to the fenced Richard Underwood Sanctuary in southern Queensland, where around 15 wombats now live.
Andy Howe Howe of the Australian Wildlife Conservation Society in Newcastle, Australia, was sorting through 100 hours of footage recorded at the sanctuary when two clips caught his eye. The first, from early June, shows a northern hairy-nosed wombat baby, proving that the sanctuary's population has successfully raised young and that the pups are now foraging on their own. The wombats are well-groomed and at a healthy weight, Howe says.
Then, in footage taken a month later, he was seen with a young wombat and a short-beaked echidna (Tachyglossus aculeatusThe echidna waddles around the frame, seemingly unfazed, while the wombat becomes increasingly agitated and throws himself into the dirt.
Tim Flannery A researcher at the Australian Museum in Sydney says he has never seen an interaction like this in his decades of experience studying mammals: “This is a nervous wombat and a happy echidna,” he says.
Northern hairy-nosed wombat, Richard Underwood Nature Reserve, Queensland, Australia
Brad Ruhe/Australian Wildlife Conservation Council
He says this is typical echidna behaviour, and that the animal's spine makes it difficult and dangerous to attack. For much of the video, the wombat points its tail at the echidna, a defensive posture in the tunnel where it presses the intruder against the roof of its burrow.
Flannery says it's “amazing” to see such natural, wild behaviour from a species so close to extinction. “It's very encouraging to see wombats thriving,” he says. Now that the transplant has proven successful, he suggests new populations be established elsewhere as soon as possible.
Before Europeans arrived, the species was found from northern Victoria through arid New South Wales and into central Queensland, and reestablishment of the species throughout its range would have major environmental benefits, Dr Flannery said.
“They're ecosystem engineers because they dig and burrow into the soil,” he says, “and their burrows provide shelter for other creatures during heat waves, droughts and fires.”
The number of planets in our solar system used to be limited to only eight, excluding Pluto. These include Mercury, Venus, Earth, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune, often remembered by the phrase “My cultured mother served us nachos.” However, with the discovery of exoplanets since 1992, the list has expanded dramatically. These exoplanets, such as PSR B1257+12 b and 51 Pegasus b, have added to the existing planets, making it challenging for students to remember them all.
Scientists have observed a pattern among exoplanets concerning their masses, distances from their stars, compositions, and other factors. Interestingly, there are very few planets with masses similar to Earth and Jupiter orbiting very close to their stars, with less than 5% of Earth’s distance from the Sun.
Research indicates that the scarcity of what they call “Hot Neptunes” might be due to the evolution of large planets. As gas giants grow, they either become comparable in size to Jupiter or lose their outer gas layers, leaving behind a rocky core like Earth’s size. Furthermore, astronomers have recently discovered new exoplanets, TOI-2374 b and TOI-3071 b, in what they refer to as Neptune’s desert.
These exoplanets stand out due to their proximity to their stars, with TOI-2374 b having a mass 56 times that of Earth and TOI-3071 b being 68 times the Earth’s mass. Despite their extreme surface temperatures, the exoplanets have not evaporated, possibly due to their high metal contents.
The observations of these exoplanets provide valuable insights for future research and exploration, potentially shedding light on unexplored phenomena in Neptune’s desert.
Over the weekend, a storm hit the Northeast, causing an extraordinary amount of rainfall in two locations on the same night, a rare occurrence that is expected once in a thousand years. The storm resulted in at least three fatalities and widespread flooding. In areas like Oxford and Southbury, Connecticut, 10 inches of rain fell in a span of 12 hours on Sunday. Similarly, Stony Brook, New York, received about 6.7 inches of rain in just three hours Sunday night. The likelihood of both events taking place in any given year is approximately 0.1%. According to federal rainfall probability data, these incidents are significant and not a common occurrence.
Nick Basile, the director of the State Weather Risk Communication Center at the University at Albany in New York, mentioned that experiencing extreme rainfall levels in two different areas in such close succession is noteworthy. While it is challenging to determine the direct impact of climate change on specific events, experts suggest that the combination of extreme rainfall events supports a broader trend in the Northeast, where intense storms are becoming more frequent.
Mark Wysocki, a retired New York state meteorologist, explained that thunderstorms are now producing heavier amounts of rainfall compared to the past. The Northeast has witnessed a considerable rise in extreme precipitation, with the 2023 National Climate Assessment reporting a steep increase in the number of events with significant rainfall.
Members of the Beacon Horse Company rescued people from the Brookside Inn in Oxford, Connecticut on Sunday.Beacon Hose Co. via The Associated Press
The impact of climate change on the behavior of the jet stream may be contributing to the prolonged presence of storms in certain areas, bringing in more moisture and causing heavier rainfall. However, researchers are still in the early stages of studying this phenomenon, making it challenging to draw definitive conclusions.
With infrastructure not designed to handle such intense rainfall, cities in the Northeast face significant challenges during severe weather events. Flash flooding becomes a major concern, prompting calls for better urban planning and infrastructure upgrades.
In Connecticut, tragic deaths occurred as a result of the storm, with two individuals swept away by floodwaters and another person killed by a fallen tree. The storm led to evacuations, water rescues, and disruptions in transportation. Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont announced the prolonged closure of more than a dozen roads in the aftermath of the storm.
Skywatchers on a budget will be excited for a night of celestial luck on Monday, as they have the chance to witness a supermoon and a seasonal blue moon together.
NASA explains that a blue moon, by its technical definition (the third full moon in a season of four), occurs approximately once every 10 years.
A supermoon happens when the moon is full at its closest point to Earth in its orbit. These occurrences vary, with the most intense supermoons appearing around 14 percent larger than when the full moon is farthest from Earth. While this supermoon may not be among the most intense, it still qualifies as a supermoon according to NASA.
The moon’s colors will appear off-white and grey, with hints of brown and yellow.
As per NASA, a “super blue moon” can happen every 20 years. NASA’s FAQ confirms: It’s set to be a bright Monday night.
People watch as a super blue moon rises behind Nacka in Stockholm on Monday. Jonathan Nackstrand/AFP-Getty Images
With the new blue moon definition (the second full moon in a month with two full moons) and the traditional seasonal blue moon definition, a super blue moon can be expected once every five years.
The next occurrence of a moon similar to Monday’s, as a supermoon coinciding with a seasonal blue moon, is scheduled for August 21, 2032, according to NASA. The next supermoon aligned with a monthly blue moon will take place in January 2037.
Monday’s super blue moon also acts as an indicator for the remaining 30 days of summer, which ends on September 21st.
“Seasonal blue moons consistently occur roughly a month before the vernal equinox or summer solstice,” NASA highlights in an FAQ.
Many Americans anticipating this unique celestial event may face disappointment as the National Weather Service forecasts thunderstorms overnight from the northern Mid-Atlantic to New England, with a chance in the High Plains regions.
For those in the San Francisco Bay area, where the moon is expected to be visible, skies are predicted to be mostly clear, ensuring that “the supermoon will be visible tonight,” as stated by the National Weather Service.
During the Giants-Chicago White Sox game, scheduled to commence an hour before sunset, Denver’s Blue Moon Brewing is organizing a post-game drone spectacle for fans at Oracle Park.
“Once the Giants-White Sox game concludes, the stadium lights will dim, and the sky above Oracle Park will illuminate with a drone show titled ‘Once in a Blue Moon,’ as confirmed by the brewery in a statement.
Researchers from the Scottish Institute for Marine Science have discovered that the deep ocean floor of the Pacific Ocean, covered with polymetallic nodules, produces so-called “dark oxygen.”
Polymetallic nodules recovered from the ocean floor in a Northwestern University lab. Image courtesy of Camille Bridgewater/Northwestern University.
Polymetallic nodules – naturally occurring mineral deposits that form on the seafloor – are commonly found in the sediment-covered abyssal plains of oceans around the world.
These consist primarily of iron and manganese oxides, but also contain metals such as cobalt and rare earth elements, which are essential components of many advanced, low-carbon energy technologies.
For the new study, Dr Andrew Sweetman from the Scottish Institute for Marine Science and his colleagues carried out experiments using chambers placed on the seafloor at a depth of around 4,200 metres to measure oxygen levels at multiple sites more than 4,000 kilometres apart in the Clarion-Clipperton Zone in the central Pacific Ocean, where polymetallic nodules are found.
Nearly every experiment showed a steady increase in oxygen levels over the two days.
The researchers conducted additional laboratory analysis and claim that the source of the detected oxygen release is polymetallic nodules.
Based on numerical simulations, they hypothesize that the electrical properties of the nodes are responsible for oxygen production.
While the researchers note that it is difficult to estimate how much oxygen polymetallic nodules produce over a wide area, they suggest that this source of oxygen may support ecosystems on the deep seafloor, which could be affected if these nodules are mined.
“We understand that oxygen was needed for aerobic life to begin on Earth, and Earth's oxygen supply began with photosynthetic organisms,” Dr Sweetman said.
“But we now know that oxygen is produced even in the deep ocean, where there is no light.”
“So I think we need to rethink questions like where did aerobic life begin.”
of result Published in a journal Nature Chemistry.
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A.K. Sweetman othersEvidence for dark oxygen production on the deep seafloor. National GeographyPublished online July 22, 2024, doi: 10.1038/s41561-024-01480-8
This article is based on a press release provided by Springer Nature and Northwestern University.
Bolivian coffee growers Amazon Weasel (Neogare Africana) Surveys were conducted near shade-grown plots as part of a citizen science monitoring program.
Amazon Weasel (Neogare Africana): They have a distinctive, sharp, dark brown stripe running down the midline from their throat to their belly. Image credit: Bernal-Hoverud others., doi:10.15560/20.3.828.
The Amazonian weasel, also known as the tropical weasel, is a lesser known species of weasel native to South America.
It was first identified as a museum specimen that was mistakenly described as native to Africa, hence the specific name africana.
This species inhabits the tropical environment of the Amazon, where temperatures and rainfall are high throughout the year.
It is found in the Amazon River basin from north-central Brazil through Ecuador, south-central Peru and central Brazil, although its full range is unknown.
“I didn't know what it was, but I knew it was a rare animal,” said coffee grower Einar Quispe, who photographed the weasel near a natural spring on his farm.
“Biodiversity is an important part of our coffee history, so I did everything I could to film it. It's a wonderful surprise to see how important this observation is for Bolivia.”
The new observation in Bolivia represents the southernmost and highest elevation (1,400 metres above sea level) location of this species on record, and the 24th time the species has been recorded anywhere.
This video footage also marks the first time an Amazon weasel has been photographed.
Capturing this weasel for the first time is significant because it provides scientists and the public with their first live footage of this poorly understood carnivore.
“This is an invaluable audiovisual record of a virtually mythical carnivore that lives in the Amazon basin and a fantastic example of the value of citizen science,” said Dr Nuria Bernal, researcher at Texas Tech University.
“As more and more people use their smartphones and cameras to record their observations, we are sure that this is not the only noteworthy scientific contribution by Bolivian citizen scientists.”
“As soon as I saw the video I knew this was a creature we could only dream of observing,” Robert Wallace said. Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS).
“WCS celebrates the importance of citizen science to our knowledge of biodiversity – Bolivia is now recognized as a global leader in the field – and we applaud the continued conservation work and innovation of APCERL's local partners.”
“Eco de las Aves from Bolivia has been our favorite coffee for a while now. How wonderful to know that as a consumer we are contributing to the preservation of Amazon forests and biodiversity while enjoying our morning cup of coffee.”
The magnificent tree frog (Litoria splendida) is normally green, but this mutant is blue
J Barker/AWC
A rare blue frog found in the Kimberley region of Western Australia has stunned researchers who say the unusual colouring is probably due to a genetic mutation causing it to lose certain skin pigments.
As its name suggests, the magnificent tree frog (Litoria splendida) is already a spectacular animal, so when Jake Barker When he saw a bright blue specimen on a bench in a workshop at the Australian Wildlife Conservancy’s Charnley River-Artesian Range Wildlife Sanctuary in April, he was shocked.
The amphibians are normally a vibrant green, which is a common colour for tree frogs and is thought to camouflage them.
“I knew as soon as I saw it that it was rare,” says Barker. “It’s not often that you get to see a blue frog.” It has been seen a number of times since, but won’t be captured for research, he says.
“It’s far too pretty and far too unique and it would be a pity to take it away from its natural habitat,” says Barker. “We’ll leave it to live out its days and hopefully get to see it many more times in the future.”
Jodi Rowley At the Australian Museum in Sydney, the animal may be the “most beautiful, aberrant-coloured frog” that she has ever seen. “And I have seen tens of thousands of frogs.”
From the photos she has seen, Rowley says the frog is at least 2 to 3 years old. The species may live to be 20 years old, so the blue individual is likely to be around for a while unless caught by a predator.
She says the frogs’ skin colour is determined by the combination of three chemicals – melanophores, which provide blacks and browns; xanthophores, which provide yellow pigments; and iridophores, which reflect blue colours. Normally, the yellows and blues combine to make green, but it is thought the new blue frog has a mutation that means it is missing the yellow pigments and the blue dominates.
“Blue is probably a bit more obvious to predators,” says Rowley, “which is why we don’t see many blue frogs.”
A hyperon is a particle that contains three quarks, like a proton or a neutron, and one or more strange quarks. Physicists from the LHCb collaboration at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) at CERN say they have observed a hyperon decay Σ+→pμ+μ- in proton-proton collisions.
A view of the LHCb detector. Image courtesy of CERN.
“Rare decays of known particles are a promising tool for exploring physics beyond the Standard Model of particle physics,” said the LHCb physicist.
“In the Standard Model, the Σ+ → pμ+μ- process is only possible through a loop diagram, meaning that the decay does not occur directly, but intermediate states have to be exchanged within the loop.”
“In quantum field theory, the probability of such a process occurring is the sum of the probabilities of all particles, both known and unknown, that can possibly be exchanged in this loop.”
“This is what makes such processes sensitive to new phenomena.”
“If a discrepancy is observed between experimental measurements and theoretical calculations, it may be caused by the contribution of some unknown particle.”
“These particles can either be exchanged within the loop or directly mediate this decay, interacting with the quarks and decaying into pairs of muons.”
“In the latter case, the new particle would leave a signature on the properties of the two muons.”
The study of the Σ+ → pμ+μ- decay has been particularly exciting thanks to hints of structure observed in the properties of muon pairs by the HyperCP collaboration in 2005.
With only three occurrences the structure was far from conclusive, and it was hoped that new research would shed light on the situation.
Finally, the LHCb data did not show any significant peak structure in the two-muon mass region highlighted by HyperCP, thus refuting the hint.
However, the new study observes the decay with a high degree of significance, followed by precise measurements of the decay probability and other parameters, which will allow further investigation of the discrepancy with the Standard Model predictions.
“In data collected in Run 2 of pp collisions at the LHCb experiment, the Σ+ → pμ+μ− decay is observed with very high significance, with a yield of NΣ+→pμ+μ− = 279 ± 19,” the authors write in their paper. paper.
“We do not see any structure in the two-muon invariant mass distribution that is consistent with the Standard Model predictions.”
“The collected signal yield allows for measurements of integral and differential branching rates, as well as other measurements such as charge-parity symmetry breaking and front-to-back asymmetry.”
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LHCb Collaboration. 2024. Observation of rare Σ+→pμ+μ− decays at LHCb. CERN-LHCb-CONF-2024-002
Stonehenge, an ancient prehistoric temple in southern England, remains a fascinating mystery. Construction began around 5,000 years ago, but the purpose of this enigmatic site remains unknown as its builders left no written records.
Analysis has shown that the massive stones of Stonehenge were transported from distant quarries, some weighing over 20 tonnes.
The alignment of Stonehenge with the sun during the solstices is well-documented, but its potential connection with the moon has intrigued experts. Scholars are exploring whether Stonehenge was not only designed to align with the sun but also with the moon, a remarkable achievement for a society predating the invention of the wheel.
On June 21, 2024, experts are investigating the relationship between Stonehenge and the lunar cycles as a rare lunar standstill event unfolds.
Professor Michael Parker Pearson, a renowned expert in British prehistory, speculates that Stonehenge’s builders may have aimed to unify people, ancestors, land, and the cosmos by linking the movements of the sun and moon.
The lunar standstill, occurring once every 18.6 years, results in the moon reaching its most extreme northern and southern positions in the night sky. This phenomenon, unlike the annual solstices tied to the sun, creates a unique celestial display.
While Stonehenge’s alignment with the solstices is well-known, its relationship with the lunar cycles remains less understood. Research indicates that burials at Stonehenge predate the arrival of the large stones, and possible alignments suggest a connection with the lunar standstill phenomenon.
An ongoing study by experts from Oxford, Leicester, and Bournemouth universities aims to delve into the significance of the moon in Stonehenge’s construction, potentially reshaping our understanding of this ancient monument.
Experts like Professor Parker Pearson, Professor Ruggles, and Dr. Chadburn are at the forefront of unraveling the mysteries of Stonehenge and its celestial connections.
Stonehenge, an ancient temple in southern England built around 5,000 years ago, remains a mysterious site with no written explanation of its purpose. Modern analysis has shown that the massive stones were transported from distant quarries to the site.
The structure is aligned with the sun during the summer and winter solstices, but the significance of this alignment remains unclear. There is speculation about whether it was also aligned with the moon, a remarkable achievement for a society that did not have advanced technology.
On June 21, 2024, a team of experts aims to investigate if the moon was an integral part of Stonehenge’s design during a rare lunar event.
Professor Michael Parker Pearson, an expert in British prehistory, believes that if Stonehenge is connected to this event, it would show a profound understanding of celestial movements by its builders.
The lunar major standstill, occurring every 18.6 years, involves the moon reaching extreme positions in the night sky, similar to the sun’s solstices. Stonehenge’s alignment with these lunar cycles is a topic of ongoing research by experts.
The study of Stonehenge’s connection to the lunar standstill involves academics from multiple universities and aims to shed light on the role of the moon in the construction of this ancient site.
About our experts
Mike Parker Pearson: A Professor of British Late Prehistory at UCL with extensive experience in archaeology and heritage preservation.
Clive Ruggles: An Emeritus Professor of Archaeoastronomy known for his work on astronomy and World Heritage sites.
Amanda Chadburn: An archaeologist and historic environment advisor contributing to research on Stonehenge and its lunar connections.
This gorgeous, but smelly, corpse flower bloomed on June 18th. Royal Botanic Gardens, KewIn London however it tends to be only for a short period, lasting only 24 to 36 hours.
Corpse Flower (Amorphophallus titanium) also known as Titan Aramgets its name from the foul smell it gives off, resembling rotting meat, which is so strong it can be heard for hundreds of metres. The smell is produced to attract rare pollinating insects, such as flesh flies and carrion beetles, to the short-lived flowers, and must be strong enough to do its job during the short period the plant is in flower, because the plant may not flower again for many years.
Strictly speaking, this up to 3 metre tall plant isn’t one flower, but many. The inner inflorescence, or spadix, emerges from a purple, pleated collar called a bract and looks like a yellow obelisk. The inflorescence, or cluster of flowers, lies in the protected area between the bract and the spadix.
If you happen to see and smell it, the smell may not be what you expect: it can change during the flower’s short lifespan and can smell like rotting flesh, as well as pleasant excrement or warm garbage.
This rare plant is endemic to the rainforests of the Indonesian island of Sumatra, but is cultivated in many botanical gardens around the world for its beauty and the crowds it attracts when it blooms. The first time it is known to flower outside of Sumatra was in 1889 at Kew Botanical Gardens.
The 246-million-year-old specimen is the geologically oldest marine reptile to inhabit the Southern Hemisphere.
This image shows a nothosaurus swimming along the ancient Antarctic coast of what is now New Zealand about 246 million years ago (during the Triassic Period). Image courtesy of Stavros Kundromichalis.
“Reptiles dominated the seas millions of years before dinosaurs dominated the land,” said Dr Benjamin Kear from the Museum of Evolution at Uppsala University and his colleagues.
“The most diverse and geologically longest-surviving group are the sauropods, with an evolutionary history spanning more than 180 million years.”
“This group included the long-necked plesiosaurs. Nothosaurus was their distant ancestor.”
“Nothosaurus could grow up to 7 metres (23 feet) in length and swam using four paddle-like limbs. It had a flattened skull with a web of narrow, conical teeth that it used to catch fish and squid.”
The 246-million-year-old Nothosaurus fossil was discovered in 1978 in rocks found along a major tributary of the Balmacaan River at the foot of Mount Harper in the Harper Ranges of New Zealand's central South Island.
“The New Zealand nothosaurus is more than 40 million years older than the oldest sauropod fossil yet found in the Southern Hemisphere,” said Dr Keir, lead author of the paper. paper Published in the journal Current Biology.
“We show that these ancient marine reptiles lived in shallow coastal environments rich in marine life within the Antarctic Circle at that time.”
“The oldest nothosaurus fossils date back to about 248 million years ago and were found along an ancient low-northern latitude belt that stretched from the remote northeastern to northwestern edges of the Panthalassa superocean.”
“The origin, distribution and timing of the arrival of nothosaurs in these remote areas remain a matter of debate.”
“Some theories suggest that they migrated along Arctic coastlines, swam through inland seas, or used ocean currents to cross the Panthalassa superocean.”
Morphology and biogeographical context of the earliest sauropod-finned fish in the Southern Hemisphere. Image courtesy of Kear others., doi: 10.1016/j.cub.2024.03.035.
New fossils discovered in New Zealand overturn these long-held assumptions.
“Using a time-calibrated evolutionary model of the global distribution of sauropods, we show that nothosaurs originated near the equator and then rapidly spread north and south at the same time that complex marine ecosystems were being re-established after the great extinction that marked the beginning of the Age of Dinosaurs,” Dr Kear said.
“The beginning of the age of the dinosaurs was marked by extreme global warming, which allowed these marine reptiles to thrive in Antarctica.”
“This also suggests that the ancient polar regions were likely routes for their earliest global migration, similar to the epic transoceanic journeys undertaken by modern whales.”
“There are surely fossils of long-extinct sea monsters still waiting to be discovered in New Zealand and other parts of the Southern Hemisphere.”
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Benjamin P. Kear others2024. Earliest southern sauropods reveal early globalization of marine reptiles. Current Biology 34(12):562-563; doi: 10.1016/j.cub.2024.03.035
Rare Earths Norway, a mining company, has made a groundbreaking announcement of discovering Europe’s largest proven deposit. This discovery of rare earth elements is highly regarded and could potentially be a game-changer for the Nordic countries and the broader region.
This continental Europe’s largest rare earth deposit, not controlled by China, presents a significant opportunity for Europe amid its oil crisis. The demand for rare earths and critical minerals is expected to grow exponentially as the transition to clean energy accelerates.
Rare Earths Norway revealed in a statement on June 6 that the Fen carbonatite deposit in southeastern India has an estimated 8.8 million tonnes of total rare earth oxides (TREO) with economically mineable prospects. The company also estimates 1.5 million tonnes of magnet-related rare earth elements that can be used in electric vehicles and wind turbines.
This discovery surpasses a significant rare earth deposit discovered last year in Sweden. Rare Earths Norway CEO Alf Rystad emphasized the importance of this discovery, stating that there is currently no mining of rare earth elements in Europe.
Going forward, Rare Earths Norway aims to contribute to mining at least 10% of the EU’s annual demand for rare earth elements by 2030. The company also plans to develop the Telemark rare earth deposit southwest of Oslo to strengthen Norway’s position in the European rare earths value chain.
The International Energy Agency highlighted the shortage of current supplies needed to transform the energy sector due to the geographic concentration of many energy transition elements. China, the world’s largest rare earth ore processor, plays a significant role in supplying rare earth elements worldwide.
Rare Earths Norway intends to continue exploration work at the site with further drilling planned for the coming month. The company aims to begin production by 2030 to contribute to Europe’s rare earth supply and reduce dependence on Chinese sources.
In a recent interview, Alf Rystad remarked that while the discovered resources are valuable, they won’t increase in value compared to oil and gas. He mentioned European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s belief that lithium and rare earth elements will become more important than traditional fossil fuels in the future.
Skywatchers around the world should gear up for an incredible celestial event, as the binary star system T Corona (T CrB) is expected to experience a magnificent nova explosion sometime between now and September. This explosion could occur at any moment.
This remarkable outburst will change T CrB from an unseen star to one as bright as Polaris.
Novae like the one predicted for T CrB happen in binary star systems where a white dwarf orbits closely with a companion star.
“A nova is a binary system in which two stars orbit close to each other.”Dr. Darren Baskill, an Astronomy lecturer at the University of Sussex, tells BBC Science Focus, “About half of the stars in the night sky are double star systems.”
These should not be confused with supernovae, the dramatic explosions that occur when a massive star dies and can illuminate an entire galaxy momentarily.
White dwarfs accumulate material from their companion stars through a process called accretion. When this material reaches a critical temperature, it triggers powerful hydrogen fusion reactions.
The outcome? A nuclear explosion that ejects gas from the white dwarf, significantly increasing the system’s brightness.
“This sudden onset of nuclear fusion causes the surface gas layer to become even hotter, triggering more nuclear reactions and leading to a brightening of the star – a nova explosion,” Baskill explained.
This is a “fireworks nova,” captured by NASA’s Chandra X-ray Observatory in 2015. Like T CrB, it caused a stir in the astronomy community when it suddenly appeared as one of the brightest stars in the sky for a few days in 1901. – Image credit: NASA
While most novae are unpredictable and observed only once, T CrB is a recurrent nova that erupts roughly every 80 years. If you miss it this time, you’ll have to wait until around the year 2100!
T CrB is the closest star system to Earth, about 3,000 light years away, and is bright enough to be seen with the naked eye even in areas with moderate light pollution.
The nova explosion of T CrB is so distant from Earth that it has just reached us. Since then, there have been over 35-40 similar explosions, and the light signals from each one are yet to reach us.
Previous eruptions of T CrB were recorded in 1866 and 1946, with a noticeable brightness decrease before the latter eruption. A similar decline was noted earlier this year, hinting at a potential new explosion.
“Amateur astronomers around the world have observed slight brightness changes in this star every three to four months,” Baskill noted. “In 1945, when this happened, the gas on the white dwarf’s surface exploded dramatically within a year, causing a nova. Is it possible that the same scenario could repeat soon?”
How to witness a nova explosion
Although T CrB is currently too dim to be seen without help, a nova eruption would be visible without any special equipment. Amateur telescopes can observe T CrB before the eruption.
To prepare, stargazers should study Corona Borealis using a star chart or a smartphone app.
This preparation will enhance the spectacle when a nova suddenly emerges and brightens a familiar constellation.
Dr. Mark HollandsResearchers from the University of Warwick advise: “The nova will be visible to the naked eye for a few nights, reaching a brightness similar to other stars in Corona Borealis. If you miss that window, it should be visible for several weeks with binoculars.”
Though our Sun will become a white dwarf in billions of years, it will not undergo a nova explosion due to the lack of a companion star.
Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime astronomical event and seize the rare chance to witness a nova explosion bright enough to see without a telescope.
About the experts
Darren Baskill is an Outreach Officer and Lecturer at the University of Sussex. She previously taught at the Royal Observatory, Greenwich, where she founded the observatory’s annual ‘Astronomy Photographer of the Year’ competition.
Mark Hollands is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the University of Warwick, focusing on white dwarfs. His work appears in journals like Natural Astronomy, Monthly Bulletin of the Royal Astronomical Society, and he has spoken at conferences worldwide.
This giant pangolin was caught on camera on March 8, 2023 in Niokolo-Koba National Park, Senegal.
Panthera/DPN
A giant pangolin has been spotted in Senegal's Niokolo-Koba National Park for the first time in 24 years, reviving hopes that the endangered animal still survives in the country.
“No one thought pangolins were still alive. [this park]” Muhammadu Modi Ndiaye At wildlife monitoring group Panthera.
Giant pangolin (Smutcha GiganteaThe pangolin, the only one of four African pangolin species found in Senegal, previously inhabited a wide area of forests and savannas from Senegal to western Kenya. But in recent decades, the scaly mammal's population has declined due to poaching for its meat and scales, as well as extensive deforestation. The report says: Over 8 million pangolins They were poached in West and Central Africa between 2014 and 2021, making them one of the most commonly trafficked animals in the world.
Giant pangolins are shy, solitary and nocturnal, so you probably won't see them outside their burrows. The last time a giant pangolin was captured and officially identified was in Senegal in April 1967. Thirty years later, two were found during an ecological survey. Since then, conservationists have not seen a single giant pangolin.
That was until he was photographed walking slowly across a dry riverbed at 1:37 a.m. on March 8, 2023. Snapshot was captured The image was captured by one of 217 research camera traps scattered across more than 4,000 square kilometres of Niokolo Koba National Park.
“I was so excited when I saw the baby pangolin,” Ndiaye said.
The sighting suggests that Niokolo-Koba National Park could become the last bastion for pangolin monitoring and conservation in Senegal, according to the report. Alan D.T. Muafo Researchers from the International Union for Conservation of Nature's Pangolin Specialist Group have produced a report on surveying pangolin habitat and identifying its habitat, which he says is particularly important as there are many areas where “local extinction” is suspected, where pangolins are no longer active.
“This sighting is a ray of hope for pangolins' survival in West Africa and could help raise public awareness of their plight,” Muafo said, adding that he hopes it marks a “turning point for new conservation efforts.”
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