Astrophysicists Discover ‘Little Red Dot’ as Early Universe’s Young Supermassive Black Hole

Posted on January 15, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Astrophysicists from the University of Copenhagen have discovered that the enigmatic “little red dots” visible in images of the early universe are rapidly growing black holes shrouded in ionized gas. This groundbreaking finding offers significant insights into the formation of supermassive black holes after the Big Bang.

The small red dot is a young supermassive black hole encased in a dense ionized cocoon. Image credits: NASA / ESA / CSA / Webb / Rusakov et al., doi: 10.1038/s41586-025-09900-4.

Since the launch of the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope in 2021, astronomers globally have been studying the red spots that appear in regions of the sky corresponding to the universe just a few hundred million years after the Big Bang.

Initial interpretations ranged from unusually massive early galaxies to unique astrophysical phenomena that challenged existing formation models.

However, after two years of extensive analysis, Professor Darach Watson and his team from the University of Copenhagen have confirmed that these points represent young black holes surrounded by a thick cocoon of ionized gas.

As these black holes consume surrounding matter, the resulting heat emits powerful radiation that penetrates the gas, creating a striking red glow captured by Webb’s advanced infrared camera.

“The little red dot is a young black hole, approximately 100 times less massive than previously estimated, encased in a gas cocoon and actively consuming gas to expand,” stated Professor Watson.

“This process generates substantial heat, illuminating the cocoon.”

“The radiation that filters through the cocoon provides these tiny red dots with their distinctive color.”

“These black holes are significantly smaller than previously thought, so there’s no need to introduce entirely new phenomena to explain them.”

Despite being the smallest black holes ever detected, these objects still weigh up to 10 million times more than the Sun and measure millions of kilometers in diameter, shedding light on how black holes accelerated their growth during the early universe.

Black holes typically operate inefficiently, as only a small fraction of the gas they attract crosses the event horizon. Much is blown back into space as high-energy outflows.

However, during this early phase, the surrounding gas cocoon serves as both a fuel source and a spotlight, enabling astronomers to observe a black hole in intense growth like never before.

This discovery is crucial for understanding how supermassive black holes, such as the one at the center of the Milky Way, grew so quickly in the universe’s first billion years.

“We observed a young black hole in a growth spurt at a stage never documented before,” Professor Watson remarked.

“The gas-dense cocoon around them supplies the rapid growth fuel they require.”

For more details, see the findings featured in this week’s edition of Nature.

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V. Rusakov et al. 2026. A small red dot like a young supermassive black hole inside a dense ionized cocoon. Nature 649, 574-579; doi: 10.1038/s41586-025-09900-4

Source: www.sci.news

Exploring the Distant ‘Little Red Dot’ Galaxy: Possible Discovery of a Baby Black Hole

Posted on January 15, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Exploring ‘Small Red Dots’ Unveiled by the James Webb Space Telescope

Credit: NASA, ESA, CSA, STScI, and D. Kocevski (Colby U.)/Space Telescope Science Institute Public Extension Office

James Webb Space Telescope red galaxy discovery — Exploring ‘Small Red Dots’ Unveiled by the James Webb Space Telescope

Credit: NASA, ESA, CSA, STScI, and D. Kocevski (Colby U.)/Space Telescope Science Institute Public Extension Office

The remarkable bright galaxies uncovered by the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) may not be as brilliant as initially thought. These celestial bodies once posed a challenge to our cosmic understanding, implying they were home to supermassive black holes and an unexpected abundance of stars. However, new insights suggest these galaxies may harbor “baby” black holes.

During its initial years surveying the early Universe, JWST serendipitously discovered numerous bright and red galaxies, referred to as “little red dots” (LRDs).

The light emitted by these galaxies indicates the presence of far more mass than previously recognized in any other galaxy. They exhibit star densities that challenge existing models or host black holes larger than expected considering the size of their parent galaxies.

Both scenarios would necessitate a substantial overhaul of our galaxy formation and black hole growth theories in the early Universe.

Initial assumptions posited that the red hue of LRDs was due to copious dust surrounding the black holes or stars. This notion has come under scrutiny, as researchers find little evidence of dust in these extraordinary galaxies.

Jenny Green, a researcher at Princeton University, posits that this discovery warrants a reevaluation of LRD characteristics. “We were confident that if red coloration was due to dust, we’d detect dust emissions. However, we found none,” Green stated. “This suggests our initial assumption about their dust content was flawed.”

Previous analyses gauged the total brightness of the LRDs by assessing specific wavelengths of light linked to hydrogen, calibrated against a model of how dust impacts this light.

In their recent study, Green and her team measured the total light output from two LRD galaxies across various light frequencies, including X-rays and infrared. They discovered that, except for visible light, these galaxies emitted significantly less light than the typical galaxy—implying that LRDs are at least ten times dimmer than earlier estimates. This revelation holds critical implications for the nature of black holes within LRDs.

“If the emitted light is substantially less than we’ve believed, the mass of the black holes is likely much more modest,” Green remarked. “This reduces the tensions that have perplexed us since the black holes no longer need to be exceedingly massive or possess substantial mass initially.”

The new emission patterns imply the black holes may harbor less mass compared to standard black holes. Rohan Naidu from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology describes them as “baby black holes.” He further noted these findings align with the emerging perspective that LRD black holes could be categorized as black hole stars—a unique type of black hole encased in gas.

“In a typical black hole, what we observe is merely a fraction of the total energy emitted by the system. However, we should reconsider the little red dots as bulging black hole stars,” Naidu explained. “Most of their energy appears to be emitted at wavelengths we can detect, suggesting that what we see accurately reflects their output.”

Conversely, Roberto Maiorino from the University of Cambridge emphasizes that one cannot definitively ascertain the black hole’s mass within an LRD, as the emitted light reveals its growth rate rather than its total mass.

Green asserts that the notion of baby black holes holds merit. “If the photon count is significantly lower,” she noted, “this indicates a downward shift in the entire mass scale. On average, they possess lesser masses than previously assumed when we incorrectly categorized them as regular accreting black holes enshrouded in dust.”

Explore the Mysteries of the Universe in Cheshire, England

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Red Tattoo Ink Linked to Hair Loss and Sweating Issues: A Cautionary Tale

Posted on January 8, 2026 by Igor Mitreski

Inflamed Areas of a Man’s Tattoo

University Centre for General Dermatology and Oncodermatology, Wrocław Medical University

A Polish man experienced a severe allergic reaction to the red ink used in his tattoo, resulting in hair loss, cessation of sweat production, and the development of vitiligo. This alarming case highlights potential adverse effects of certain modern tattoo inks on the immune system.

Tattooing is a time-honored practice that traditionally utilized black soot-based inks and manual techniques. Today, electric tattoo machines are employed to rapidly apply colorful synthetic inks across larger skin areas.

Many dyes found in colored tattoo inks were originally formulated for use in printer inks and automotive paints, not for human application. Reports of allergic reactions to colorful tattoo inks have surged in recent years, particularly among individuals with existing immune issues, such as eczema, asthma, and celiac disease. According to research, around 6% of people report allergic reactions that persist for more than four months, particularly with red ink.

The Polish man’s symptoms began four months post-tattoo application on his forearm. Initially, itched intensely, followed by the emergence of a widespread red rash. Over time, he developed hair loss, yellowing nails, swollen lymph nodes, and an inability to sweat. After two years, he also noticed large patches of vitiligo.

Despite consultations with several specialists, including dermatologists and allergists, the underlying issue remained undiagnosed. It wasn’t until the red ink decorations of his tattoo became visibly inflamed that suspicion arose. A biopsy of a swollen lymph node revealed traces of red ink had migrated from the tattoo site.

Due to limited treatment options, the man underwent eight surgeries to eliminate the problematic red ink and apply skin grafts. Post-treatment, while his hair has regrown and vitiligo has stabilized, he still suffers from permanent dysfunction of his sweat glands, presenting a risk of heat exhaustion and necessitating his resignation from military service, as he must frequently spray himself with water.

Despite attempts, dermatologists at Wrocław Medical University could not obtain a sample of the red ink for analysis. However, past studies have identified synthetic organic dyes, particularly azo dyes, as agents responsible for allergic reactions in red tattoos.

The potential health risks associated with tattoo ink are linked to its chronic activation of the immune system. Most tattoo ink remains on the skin, but some can migrate to lymph nodes. Here, immune cells known as macrophages attempt to eliminate the ink but often fail due to its size. This failure leads to a cycle of immune activation, as macrophages transfer the ink to others, perpetuating the immune response. Dr. Sine Clemmensen of the University of Southern Denmark elaborates on this issue.

The Polish man also had Hashimoto’s disease, an autoimmune condition that may have heightened his sensitivity, resulting in the immune system mistakenly attacking his skin.

Emerging research suggests that even individuals without pre-existing immune conditions might face long-term risks related to tattoos. Clemmensen’s findings indicate that having any tattoo color could triple the risk of developing lymphoma, a cancer affecting the lymphatic system.

In January 2022, following another case similar to that of the Polish man, the European Union initiated measures to enhance tattoo safety by restricting chemicals commonly found in tattoo inks with azo dyes. However, legislation in other regions is still pending.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Dan Houser Discusses Victorian Novels, Red Dead Redemption, and the Evolution of Open-World Gaming

Posted on December 3, 2025 by

I It’s challenging to find a more contemporary form of entertainment than open-world video games. Merging storytelling, social interaction, and the freedom to roam, these expansive technological projects offer a uniquely immersive experience with infinite possibilities. But do they truly embody novel concepts in storytelling?

This week, I had a conversation with Dan Hauser, co-founder of Rockstar and the lead writer for Grand Theft Auto and Red Dead Redemption. He was in London discussing his new venture, Absurd Ventures. He’s working on a range of exciting projects, including a novel and a podcast series titled better paradise (which delves into a vast online game that ends in tragedy), as well as a comedic quest set in an online universe known as absurd verse. He mentioned that he had an epiphany regarding the series 15 years ago while giving press interviews for the Grand Theft Auto IV expansion pack.

“I was conversing with a journalist from Paris Match, a very learned French individual, who stated, ‘The game Grand Theft Auto is akin to Dickens.’ I thought, bless you for saying that! However, in retrospect, they may not reach Dickensian heights, but they’re comparable in that they create worlds. When you examine Dickens, Zola, Tolstoy—any of those authors—you sense that the entire world they describe is magnificent. This is an open world. That’s the experience you seek from the game. It’s a bizarre prism through which to view a society that somehow becomes fascinating.”

A whole new world…an absurd world. Photo: Absurd Ventures/X

I found it incredibly engaging to discuss this concept with Hauser, as I concur that there are notable parallels between Victorian literature and contemporary narrative-driven video games. The extensive descriptive passages in these works served as a form of virtual reality, evoking vivid imagery in readers’ minds well before the advent of cinema. It’s wholly immersive. When I first read Jane Eyre a decade ago, I was struck by the richness of the inner thoughts presented, inviting readers to explore the main character’s psyche.

Hauser also noted structural resemblances to Grand Theft Auto. “There’s a sense of an expanded storytelling akin to the remarkable 19th-century novels from Thackeray onward,” he explained. “These stories can be viewed as shaggy dog tales that culminate at a single moment. They are deeply realistic; they contain a grounded progression rather than jumping around in time. The games are similarly grounded in that sense.”

For Hauser, this synthesis of Victorian literature and game design came to fruition with the creation of Red Dead Redemption 2, Rockstar’s magnum opus and a poignant narrative of vengeance set in late 19th century America. “I consumed Victorian novels,” he shared. “I listened to the Middlemarch audiobook daily during my commute, and I loved every moment.” He faced challenges in striking the right tone for the dialogue, ultimately finding inspiration in blending Middlemarch, Sherlock Holmes, and Cowboy Pulp Fiction.

“I listened to the Middlemarch audiobook every day on my way to and from the office,” Dan Hauser said. Photo: Chelsea Guglielmino/Getty Images

“From a writing perspective, I wanted it to feel more like a novel,” he remarked. “We believed this approach could yield something innovative story-wise. Given how visually stunning the game is and its strong art design, we aimed to anchor the narrative in a solid context. Our goal was to encapsulate the three-dimensionality of the characters’ lives while also portraying a sense of life and death in the 19th century, which is fundamentally different from our own experience.”

It’s fascinating to see how Victorian literature significantly influenced Rockstar’s acclaimed adventures. The gaming industry often feels inward-looking, with new titles being slightly modified iterations of successful older games, recycling the same fantasy and science fiction narratives. Drawing on Tolkien, Akira, or Blade Runner isn’t inherently problematic, but broadening one’s literary horizons is always beneficial. I eagerly anticipate how Hauser’s new endeavor will transform the notion of open-world gaming in the 21st century, yet part of me wishes he would fully embrace the adventure of a grand Victorian novel.

Forget Pride and Prejudice and Zombies; perhaps it’s time for Middlemarch and Machine Guns.

what to play

Gorgeous atmosphere… “Metroid Prime 4 Beyond”. Photo: Nintendo

Eighteen years have elapsed since the last installment of “Metroid Prime.” In that time, people have been born, attended school, completed exams, and faced their first hangovers since I last explored a mysterious planet through Samus Aran’s visor. I’ve played quite a bit of Metroid Prime 4: Beyond for fans of Nintendo’s fierce (but often overlooked) heroes. I reviewed it this week and I’m pleased to report it wasn’t a disaster. While it’s somewhat uneven and carries an old-fashioned feel, it boasts a stunning atmosphere that is visually and audibly captivating and is genuinely fun. The gameplay resonates with me because it adheres to unconventional modern game design principles. keza mcdonald

Available: Nintendo Switch/Switch 2

Estimated play time: 15-20 hours

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what to read

Could Shadow be highlighted in Paramount’s upcoming Sonic the Hedgehog spin-off? Photo: Paramount Pictures and Sega of America, Inc.

Sega enthusiasts rejoice: Paramount Pictures has announced a Sonic the Hedgehog movie spin-off (or should it be a spin-off Dash?) As reported by Variety, this project, currently dubbed “Sonic Universe Event Film,” is set to release on December 22, 2028, shortly after Sonic the Hedgehog 4, slated for March 2027. Perhaps there will be a new journey for Sonic’s rival, Shadow the Hedgehog? I might be alone in this, but I’m excited about Big the Cat’s fishing adventure.
The Information Commissioner’s Office, the UK’s independent data protection and information rights regulator, is currently investigating 10 Most Popular Mobile Games to focus on children’s privacy. According to the organization’s blog, “84% of parents are worried about their children being exposed to strangers and harmful content via mobile games.” This scrutiny follows recent controversies surrounding Roblox.
As someone inundated with around 200 press releases weekly about this genre, I found this piece relatable. Rock, Paper, Shotgun elaborates on the seemingly unstoppable emergence of roguelike games. Edwin Evans-Thirlwell interviews developers to uncover the reasons behind the popularity of games featuring the three Ps: procedural generation, (character) progression, and permadeath.

What to click

question block

Using power…Dishonored 2. Photo: Steam Powered

Keza answers this week’s reader inquiries from Tom:

“I was reflecting on a recent question block about non-violent games and thought, are there games that maintain violent elements but still provide alternative paths to completion? I adored Red Dead Redemption 2, yet was frustrated that firearms were often the only means to resolve conflicts. I’ve seen countless amusing videos of players attempting to finish inherently violent games without bloodshed, highlighting a desire for pacifism.”

I distinctly remember playing the original Splinter Cell on Xbox, where the protagonist opts for a non-lethal approach by incapacitating foes rather than killing them. While it took me a long time to navigate, it was indeed a viable path offered by the game. The steampunk classic Dishonored and its sequel are known for allowing players to wrap up their quests without resorting to lethal force, utilizing supernatural abilities to manipulate their surroundings. However, if memory serves, choosing the pacifist route does make the game considerably harder.

In fact, most stealth games permit a non-violent approach, though few specifically reward players for sparing lives. One notable exception is the beloved comic-inspired adventure Undertale, where players can ultimately engage monsters in dialogue instead of combat. I also believe it’s feasible to play through both original Fallout titles (possibly even Fallout: New Vegas) without killing anyone, should players possess enough charisma to navigate tough scenarios through dialogue.

We’re still accepting nominations for Game of the Year for our year-end special – let us know by. Email us at pushbuttons@theguardian.com.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Sam Altman Declares ‘Code Red’ for OpenAI Amidst ChatGPT’s Growing Competition

Posted on December 3, 2025 by

Sam Altman has issued a “code red” for OpenAI to enhance ChatGPT amid strong competition from other chatbots.

In a recent report from the technology news site Information, the CEO of the San Francisco-based startup informed staff in an internal memo: “We are at a critical time for ChatGPT.”

OpenAI is feeling the pressure from the success of Gemini 3, Google’s latest AI model, and is allocating additional resources to improve ChatGPT.

Last month, Altman informed employees that the launch of Gemini 3 had outperformed competitors. According to various benchmarks, this could result in “temporary economic headwinds” for companies. He added, “I expect the global atmosphere to remain stormy for some time.”

While OpenAI’s flagship product boasts 800 million weekly users, Google benefits from a profitable search business along with vast data and financial resources for its AI initiatives.

Sam Altman. Photo: Jose Luis Magaña/AP

Marc Benioff, CEO of the $220bn (£166bn) software company Salesforce, stated last month that he plans to switch to Gemini 3 and “never look back” after testing Google’s newest AI release.

“I’ve been using ChatGPT every day for three years. I just spent two hours on Gemini 3. I’m not going back. The leap is insane. Reasoning, speed, images, video… everything is clearer and faster. I feel like the world has changed again,” he remarked on X.

OpenAI is also scaling back its advertising efforts on ChatGPT as it prioritizes improvements to the chatbot, which recently celebrated its third anniversary.

Nick Turley, the head of ChatGPT, marked the anniversary with a post on X, committing to further innovations for the product.

“Our focus now is to further enhance ChatGPT’s capabilities, making it more intuitive and personal while continuing to grow and expand access worldwide. Thank you for an incredible three years. We have much work ahead!”

Despite not having the same cash flow support as rivals like Google, Meta, and Amazon, who fund competitor Anthropic, OpenAI has garnered substantial investments from firms like SoftBank Investment Group and Microsoft. At its latest valuation, OpenAI reached $500 billion, a significant increase from $157 billion last October.

OpenAI is currently operating at a loss but anticipates annual revenue to surpass $20 billion by year’s end, with Altman projecting that it will “grow to hundreds of billions.” The startup plans to allocate $1.4 trillion in data center costs over the next eight years to develop and maintain AI systems, aiming for rapid revenue growth.

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“Considering the trends in AI usage and demand, we believe the risk of insufficient computing power at OpenAI is more significant and likely than the risk of excess computing power,” Altman stated last month.

Apple has also reacted to rising competitive pressure in the sector by appointing a new vice president of AI. John Gianandrea will be succeeded by Microsoft executive Amar Subramanya.

The company has been slow to integrate AI features into its products, while competitors like Samsung have been quicker to upgrade their devices with AI capabilities.

Subramanya comes to Apple from Microsoft, where he last served as vice president of AI. He previously spent 16 years at Google, including as head of engineering for the Gemini assistant.

Earlier this year, Apple announced that enhancements to its voice assistant Siri would be postponed until 2026.

Source: www.theguardian.com

People with Red Hair May Experience Slower Healing for Cuts and Scrapes.

Posted on November 14, 2025 by

Our hair color seems to influence wound healing in unexpected ways

Stock Enjoy/Shutterstock

Red-haired individuals might experience slower wound healing compared to those with blonde, brunette, or dark hair. Research conducted on mice indicated that genetic differences related to hair color may affect the speed at which wounds heal, insights that could lead to improved treatment strategies for various hair colors.

The genes responsible for our hair color play a significant role. The gene MC1R is critical as it produces a protein determining the balance of black-brown and red-yellow pigments within hair follicles.

Individuals with brown or black hair typically have an MC1R variant encoding the active version of this protein. In contrast, nearly all redheads possess a less active or entirely inactive variant due to MC1R mutations. The genetics of hair pigmentation is complex for blondes, too, as they can display either active or inactive protein forms.

This protein is also present in the skin and has an anti-inflammatory effect. This led Jenna Cash from the University of Edinburgh to explore its influence on wound healing. The healing process requires an initial inflammatory response to clear out pathogens and dead cells from the injury site; however, if this response is too intense or prolonged, it can hinder proper healing.

To examine this, she and her team surgically created 4-millimeter wounds on the backs of black and red-haired mice, the latter having completely inactive MC1R protein.

After a week, red-haired mice exhibited an average scar contraction of 73%, while dark-haired mice showed a 93% contraction.

With these results in mind, the researchers hypothesized that an experimental topical agent, which enhances the activity of the active protein form (without impacting the inactive form), could aid in healing chronic wounds. This is particularly relevant for diabetics, in whom persistent high blood sugar can lead to excessive inflammation and delayed healing.

To test this hypothesis, the researchers inflicted wounds on black-haired mice and treated them with medication and bandages, while other black-haired mice with similar wounds received saline and bandages instead.

After one week, wounds of the treated mice had closed by an average of 63%, significantly larger than those of control group mice. “Patients would likely be pleased if their scars were visibly smaller, especially in a short timeframe,” noted Cash. Further analyses revealed the drug’s mechanism: it reduces the number of inflammatory immune cells.

This approach offers potential for treating humans, including redheads, as healing processes show remarkable similarities between mice and humans, most of whom have the MC1R protein functioning to some extent, Cash notes. However, patients with completely inactive forms may not see benefits.

Drugs targeting this protein are currently used for conditions like erythropoietic protoporphyria, making the researchers optimistic about the safety profile of this approach, according to Cash. Nonetheless, further studies are necessary to confirm this, as highlighted by Cas Bogey from Case Western Reserve University. Plans for human trials will commence shortly.

Future studies should also investigate the drug’s safety and efficacy on infected wounds, as Bogey pointed out. “The medication might interfere with the infection response or cause unintended side effects,” she cautioned.

This news may not be received well by some redheads. Prior studies indicate that red-haired individuals might also experience heightened sensitivity to pain. However, Cash reassures, “There’s no cause for alarm. We currently lack human data. Even if individuals with red hair heal somewhat more slowly, the difference may be negligible and hardly noticeable.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Webb Takes Stunning Images of the Red Spider Nebula.

Posted on November 4, 2025 by

Utilizing the Near Infrared Camera (NIRCam) aboard the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope, astronomers have obtained fresh images of the Red Spider Nebula, a prominent planetary nebula located in the constellation Sagittarius.

This web image showcases the Red Spider Nebula. Image credit: NASA/ESA/CSA/Webb/JH Kastner, Rochester Institute of Technology.

The Red Spider Nebula was identified by American astronomer and physicist Edward Charles Pickering on July 15, 1882.

This astronomical object is located roughly 12,420 light-years away from Earth in the constellation Sagittarius.

Commonly referred to as NGC 6537, ESO 590-1, and IRAS 18021-1950, it has an approximate radius of 3.6 light-years.

“Planetary nebulae, like the Red Spider Nebula, form when average stars, such as our Sun, reach the conclusion of their life cycles,” Webb astronomers noted in a statement.

“As these stars expand into cool red giants, they shed their outer layers, propelling them into space and revealing their hot white cores.”

“Ultraviolet radiation from the central star ionizes the ejected material, causing it to emit light.”

“The planetary nebula stage of a star’s lifecycle is both spectacular and brief, lasting only tens of thousands of years.”

“This Webb image displays the central star of the Red Spider Nebula, which shines slightly brighter than the dusty gas web surrounding it.”

In optical images from telescopes such as Hubble, the stars appear faintly blue.

However, in the NIRCam image, it appears red. Webb’s sensitive near-infrared capabilities have unveiled the hot dust enveloping the central star.

“This hot dust likely orbits the central star in a disk-like formation,” the astronomers explained.

“Even though only one star is visible at the nebula’s center, a concealed companion star may exist there.”

“Such a stellar companion could account for the nebula’s shape, including its distinctive narrow waist and broad jets.”

“This hourglass configuration is also observed in other planetary nebulae, like the Butterfly Nebula, which Webb has also recently studied.”

“Webb’s fresh perspective on the Red Spider Nebula reveals, for the first time, the complete extent of the nebula’s extended lobes that resemble the spider’s ‘legs,'” researchers stated.

“These lobes, depicted in blue, are traced by light emitted from H.₂, a molecule consisting of two hydrogen atoms bonded together.”

“These lobes, which are visible across NIRCam’s field of view, are shown to be closed, bubble-like structures, each stretching about three light-years.”

“Gas streaming from the core of the nebula has inflated these massive bubbles over countless years.”

“New observations from Webb indicate that gas is also actively being ejected from the nebula’s center.”

“A protracted purple ‘S’ shape at the nebula’s center follows light from ionized iron atoms.”

“This feature illustrates where a fast-moving jet has emerged near the nebula’s central star, colliding with previously ejected material and shaping the nebula’s undulating structure that we observe today.”

Source: www.sci.news

Astronomers Capture Direct Images of Brown Dwarfs Orbiting Nearby Red Dwarfs

Posted on October 22, 2025 by

Astronomers utilized the Subaru Telescope, W.M. Keck Observatory, and ESA’s Gaia mission to capture images of the brown dwarf companion orbiting the M dwarf star LSPM J1446+4633.

NIRC2 image of J1446 taken in August 2023. The white arrow indicates the location of the new companion J1446B. Image provided by: Uyama et al., doi: 10.3847/1538-3881/ae08b6.

LSPM J1446+4633 (J1446) is a nearby mid-M dwarf, situated 17 parsecs (55 light-years) away.

The newly identified brown dwarf orbits its parent star at a distance approximately 4.3 times that of the Earth from the sun, completing an orbit every 20 years.

This object, designated J1446B, has a mass ranging from 20 to 60 times that of Jupiter.

“The success of this discovery was due to the combination of three complementary observational methods: (i) radial velocity (RV) measurements via long-term infrared spectroscopic monitoring by Subaru’s IRD instrument, (ii) high-resolution near-infrared imaging with advanced adaptive optics at the W.M. Keck Observatory, and (iii) precise astronomical acceleration measurements from ESA’s Gaia mission,” stated California State University astronomer Taichi Uyama and his team.

“By integrating these datasets and applying Kepler’s laws, we were able to determine the dynamic mass and orbital parameters of J1446B with unprecedented precision.”

“Radial velocity data by itself cannot differentiate between mass and orbital inclination, but the addition of direct imaging and Gaia data resolves this ambiguity.”

“The Subaru IRD-SSP program provided crucial RV data, while Keck’s cutting-edge adaptive optics allowed for the direct detection of the companion star at very close distances from the host star.”

“Previous studies have shown that astronomical acceleration from Hipparcos and Gaia can be combined with direct imaging to detect and analyze companion objects.”

“However, Hipparcos was unable to measure faint red dwarf stars like J1446.”

“Our study is the first to apply Gaia-only acceleration data to such a system, successfully constraining the orbit and dynamical mass of a brown dwarf companion.”

Near-infrared observations of J1446B indicated a brightness variation of about 30%, hinting at dynamic atmospheric phenomena such as clouds or storms.

“This finding serves as a significant benchmark for testing brown dwarf formation theories and atmospheric models,” the astronomers noted.

“Future spectroscopic studies may enable researchers to map the weather patterns on this intriguing object.”

“This achievement highlights the efficacy of combining ground-based and space-based observatories in discovering hidden worlds beyond our solar system.”

The team’s paper was published in Astronomy Magazine.

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Taichi Uyama et al. 2025. Direct Image Exploration for Companions with Subaru/IRD Strategic Program II. A brown dwarf companion star was discovered around the nearby medium-M dwarf LSPM J1446+4633. A.J. 170, 272; doi: 10.3847/1538-3881/ae08b6

Source: www.sci.news

Blue Planet Red Review: Missteps on Mars Make for a Surprisingly Disturbing Documentary

Posted on October 13, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

This image seems to show a Martian wrench, but it’s just a stone

Brian Cory Dobbs Productions

Handout materials for the movie 'Blue Planet Red.' The Spirit rover captured two peculiar rocks resembling a wrench and a container. See more at https://blueplanetred.net/images — This image seems to show a Martian wrench, but it’s just a stone

Brian Cory Dobbs Productions

Blue Planet Red
Directed by Brian Corrie Dobbs, available on Amazon Prime Video

Blue Planet Red is a documentary focused on Mars. The world depicted by director Brian Corrie Dobbs diverges from our understanding but certainly possesses its allure. It showcases an advanced civilization of pyramid builders that either failed to avert their world’s demise or destroyed it through a catastrophic nuclear conflict.

Dobbs presents his assertions regarding advanced Martian life directly to the audience, complete with expressive gestures and confident poses. I found him quite engaging. Yet, after viewing his work, I wasn’t surprised to discover that a section of his portfolio includes questionable content (referring to dubious videos concerning cell phones, electromagnetic fields, and cancer).

Whether by design or not, Blue Planet Red serves as a historical record. It is a testament to a generation of researchers and enthusiasts raised under the imposing shadow of a two-kilometer geological mound in the Martian region of Sidonia. Back in 1976, NASA’s Viking spacecraft took a blurry photo of what seemed to be a giant human face, known as the “Face of Mars,” at the intersection of Mars’ southern highlands and northern plains.

There’s no need to delve into debunking topics that have already been convincingly dismantled many times before. If you enhance the resolution of the image, the so-called face vanishes. Features resembling tools or bones are simply rocks. Additionally, the presence of xenon-129 in Mars’ atmosphere suggests an ancient nuclear war only if we disregard the well-understood decay process of the now-extinct isotope iodine-129 into xenon-129 within Mars’ cooling lithosphere.

“
The ambiguous data from the Viking orbiters fostered the growth of fanciful ideas
“

Yet, capturing this narrative holds a certain poignancy. Transforming Ideas gives voice to this generation of researchers. Individuals featured in the film include Richard Bryce Hoover, who led NASA’s astrobiology research at the Marshall Space Flight Center in Alabama until 2011, where he helped prove the existence of extremophiles on Earth. He is convinced he discovered microfossils in Martian meteorites. However, despite his enthusiasm, director Hoover fails to clarify in the film why these fossils rest atop the rock samples rather than embedded within them.

Contributor John Brandenburg is regarded as a respectable plasma scientist, provided he avoids discussing nuclear war on Mars. Mark Carlot, on the other hand, has dedicated 40 years to chronicling remnants of civilization on Mars while others merely see rocks. Upon returning to Earth, he proves to be an adept archaeologist.

After Apollo made its final moon landing in 1972, the initial thrill of the space race began to diminish. The images transmitted back by the Viking spacecraft signaled the next significant discovery. This hazy mixture of revolutionary yet unclear data served as a fertile ground for the emergence of fanciful ideas, particularly in the United States, where the Vietnam War and Watergate bred skepticism and paranoia.

Dobbs’ dynamic recounting of the Martian narrative frames it as a tale of an event occurring 3.7 billion years ago when the wet, warm planet transitioned into a barren dust bowl. For me, it resonates more with what happened to the passionate groups glued to their screens and magazines in the 1970s. Let us momentarily set aside our disdain and engage with this generation. Strong hope should never again hinder a kind heart like this.

Simon also recommends…

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Oliver Morton

This exploration of Mars’ landscape elucidates how optical technology shaped human focus on its neighbors..

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Wernher von Braun

American and German (and Nazi) rocket scientists drew inspiration from Antarctic exploration to draft this foundational technical specification for a manned mission to Mars.

Simon Ings is a novelist and science writer. X Follow him at @simonings

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Can Exoplanets Orbiting TRAPPIST-1 and Other Red Dwarfs Support Life?

Posted on August 14, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

A protective atmosphere, a welcoming sun, and abundant liquid water make Earth a remarkable place. Leveraging the extraordinary capabilities of the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope, astronomers are on a mission to uncover just how unique and extraordinary our planet truly is. Is it possible for a temperate environment to exist elsewhere, perhaps around a different type of star? The TRAPPIST-1 system offers an intriguing opportunity to explore this question, as it contains seven Earth-sized planets orbiting red dwarf stars—the most common type in the Milky Way.

The artist’s concept depicts TRAPPIST-1d passing in front of a turbulent star, showing the other planets in the background. Image credits: NASA/ESA/CSA/Joseph Olmsted, STSCI.

TRAPPIST-1 is a super cool dwarf star situated 38.8 light-years away in the constellation Aquarius.

These stars are slightly larger than Jupiter, comprising only 8% of our Sun’s mass. They rotate quickly and emit UV energy flares.

TRAPPIST-1 is home to seven transiting planets designated TRAPPIST-1b, c, d, e, f, g, and h.

All these planets are similar in size to Earth and Venus, or marginally smaller, with very brief orbital periods of 1.51, 2.42, 4.04, 6.06, 9.21, 12.35, and 20 days, respectively.

They may all be tidally locked, meaning the same side always faces their star, akin to how the same side of the moon is always turned towards Earth. This results in a permanently night side and a permanently day side for each TRAPPIST-1 planet.

“Ultimately, we aim to discover whether similar environments to those we enjoy on Earth exist elsewhere, and under what conditions they might thrive,” stated Dr. Caroline Piaulett Graeb, an astronomer at the University of Chicago and the Trottia Institute for Planetary Research.

“At this stage, we can exclude TRAPPIST-1d as a potential twin or cousin of Earth, even as Webb enables us to investigate Earth-sized planets for the first time.”

Dr. Piaulet-Ghorayeb and her team utilized Webb’s NIRSpec (near-infrared spectroscopy) instrument to capture the transmission spectra of the TRAPPIST-1d planet.

They found no common molecules typically present in Earth’s atmosphere, such as water, methane, or carbon dioxide.

However, they have outlined several possibilities for the exoplanet that warrant further investigation.

“There are multiple reasons we might not detect an atmosphere around TRAPPIST-1d,” Dr. Piaulet-Ghorayeb mentioned.

“It may have a very thin atmosphere, similar to Mars, which is challenging to identify.”

“Alternatively, thick, high-altitude clouds may obscure certain atmospheric signatures.”

“Or it could be a barren rock with no atmosphere whatsoever.”

In any case, TRAPPIST-1d faces challenges as a planet orbiting a red dwarf star.

TRAPPIST-1, the host star of the system, is known for its volatility and often emits high-energy radiation flares that can strip away the atmosphere of nearby small planets.

Nevertheless, scientists remain eager to search for atmospheric signs on the TRAPPIST-1 planets, as red dwarfs are the most prevalent stars in our galaxy.

If these planets can retain an atmosphere here, it suggests they could potentially do so anywhere, even under the harsh conditions of stellar radiation.

“Webb’s sensitive infrared instruments allow us to probe into the atmospheres of these small, cold planets for the first time,” said Dr. Bjorn Beneke, an astronomer at the Institute for Planetary Research at Montreal University.

“We are using Webb to identify atmospheres on Earth-sized planets and define the thresholds between those that can and cannot sustain an atmosphere.”

Results will be published in Astrophysical Journal.

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Caroline Piaulett Graeb et al. 2025. Restrictive conditions on the potential secondary atmosphere of the temperate rocky exoplanet TRAPPIST-1d. APJ 989, 181; doi:10.3847/1538-4357/ADF207

Source: www.sci.news

Women’s Mission to Mars: An Opera on Acquiring the Red Planet’s Toxic Technical Resources

Posted on August 6, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Writing an opera centered around Mars? Mars represents more than just a celestial body; it embodies philosophy and ideology. Humanity’s perception of it evolves over time, mirroring the complex blend of beliefs, aspirations, dreams, and fears that characterize each era.

In 1965, NASA’s Mariner 4 flew by Mars, delivering the first detailed images of the red planet back to Earth. Before this mission, our knowledge of Mars was limited to telescope observations, where the planet was imagined as a lush environment that might harbor life. Mariner 4 unveiled a starkly different reality: a barren, cratered landscape devoid of life. President Lyndon B. Johnson declared, “It may just be that, as we know, it’s more unique than many people think, along with its humanity. We need to remember this.” The New York Times went even further.

Imagine life in the summer of 1965 if you hadn’t yet been born. In June, Ed White became the first American astronaut to walk in space. His experience was so profound that Soviet astronaut Alexei Leonov referred to it as “the saddest moment of my life” upon re-entering the capsule. Life Magazine celebrated White with a dedicated issue titled “A Glorious Walk in the Universe.” Shortly thereafter, images from Mariner 4 were broadcast, revealing Mars’s desolation. We had just entered a summer filled with dreams of the cosmos, a time of belief that we might not be alone; those dreams, however, were soon overshadowed.

Historic… The first female spaceflight crew including Lauren Sanchez, third from the left. Photo: Blue Origin Handout/EPA

Fast forward 60 years later, space and technology continue to captivate our attention. Spring was bustling with events. In April, the first all-female spaceflight led by then-fiance billionaire Jeff Bezos, Lauren Sanchez, launched using a rocket developed by Bezos’ Blue Origin. In May, another billionaire, Elon Musk, resigned amidst controversies surrounding Doge, all while sporting a “Occupied Mars” T-shirt.

In June, billionaire venture capitalist Peter Thiel shared in an interview with the New York Times, “Mars appears to be more than a science project. It’s a political undertaking.” By July, scientists presented findings at the National Astronomical Conference showing ancient riverbeds on Mars, challenging earlier beliefs regarding water on the planet. Sotheby’s auctioned a large piece of Martian meteorite for around $5.3 million (£4 million). Meanwhile, President Trump signed an executive order aimed at “preventing the federal government from overstepping.”

So, why create an opera about Mars? Because discussing Mars means exploring our own identities, aspirations for the future, and the mechanisms of current power dynamics.

https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/2qRYC5C4lI8?wmode=opaque&feature=oembed" title="MARS | Trailer" height="480" width="854" allowfullscreen="

Watch the trailer for Mars

To write the opera about Mars, how do we proceed? First, we select a script. The choice of author Mark O’Connell was natural; we are both intrigued by AI, Silicon Valley, and the ideological currents that permeate everyday life, from transhumanism and futurism to rising concerns around fertility rates in Western nations.

Our research dives deep, adopting a Hard Science Fiction perspective. We begin with everyday logistics. How do astronauts exercise, eat, shower, and use the restroom? Can a pregnancy be carried to term in zero gravity or under Mars’ weaker gravitational pull, which is 38% of Earth’s? The answers vary, ranging from the benign (using advanced resistance exercise equipment) to the concerning (one option involves tying a woman to an underground centrifuge during pregnancy).

“I turned to AI,” remarked Walche and her co-director Tom Creed during rehearsals. Photo: Ste Murray

The vast distance from Earth to Mars (about 140 million miles) complicates real-time communication. I pondered the dynamics of relationships in a scenario where conversations could only happen through audio notes. Each line of inquiry led to more questions: If we find life on another planet, how will it alter our understanding of ourselves and the cosmos? Is there a legal framework in place? Does the 1967 Outer Space Treaty hold? Are we humans destined to repeat the harrowing patterns of colonization, or can we carve a different path?

Our opera centers around an all-female mission. Four astronauts—Svetlana, Sally, Judith, and Valentina—named after the first four women in space, board the spacecraft Buckminster en route to Mars. Their quest is to find water to support existing colonies.

Their journey is arduous, further complicated by the scant entertainment options and reruns of *The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills*. Upon nearing Mars, they learn that their mission has become the target of a hostile takeover by Shadowfax Ventures, helmed by libertarian billionaire Axel Parchment. They now face isolation, the looming specter of corporate authoritarianism, and the existential question of alien life.

As we dived into the plot, the next challenge was to creatively encompass this expansive narrative acoustically. I envisioned the actual sounds astronauts would experience in different space environments: the roar of rocket propulsion, the hum of life support systems, and mechanical sounds. We meticulously analyzed audio recordings from the International Space Station, crafting ways to replicate these auditory experiences.

The Irish National Opera’s production premiered
At the Galway Arts Festival in July. Photo: Pat Redmond

I immersed myself in hours of space audio—whistles, auroras, interstellar recordings from Voyager 1, and even humorous moments like Chris Hadfield’s lighthearted accounts of using the ISS restroom, alongside studies of various exoplanets. The community at Space Exploration Stack Exchange assisted with inquiries about musical instruments functioning in 38% gravity and the sound quality of trumpets and violins on Mars.

Interestingly, astronauts seem drawn to synth music. A playlist shared by Dutch astronaut Andre Kuipers revealed a taste for Vangelis, Mike Oldfield, and Brian Eno, leading me to incorporate synthesizers into both the orchestra and the spacecraft. For our antagonists, I leaned into AI to define their musical character, which was humorously labeled as “bad EDM.” They demonstrated a propensity for chaotic sounds, driving me to explore genres like “Bro Step” and “Fashwave.”

In our opera, the astronauts confront the challenges of a troubling future, resilient against the odds. Our vision, shaped by Mark’s and my imagination, captures not only resistance and hope but also moments of rebellion and joy. Throughout the summer, our team remained aware of the stark human challenges and anxieties outside the rehearsal space. This awareness drove us to explore the significance of our own world, amidst a perceived power dynamic favoring a select few wealthy individuals imposing their will on the greater populace.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Astronomers Uncover a Rare Red Supergiant Star

Posted on August 5, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

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.

The team’s paper is set to be published in the journal Astronomy and Astrophysics.

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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

Source: www.sci.news

Newly Discovered Small Red Dot Galaxy Found in Our Local Universe

Posted on July 18, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

J1025+1402, one of three small red dot galaxies up to 2.5 billion light years apart

Digital Legacy Survey/d. Lang (Permieter Institute)

SEI 259288289 — J1025+1402, one of three small red dot galaxies up to 2.5 billion light years apart

Digital Legacy Survey/d. Lang (Permieter Institute)

A new analysis shows that peculiar galaxies, once only identified in early cosmic formations, have surfaced more recently, raising intriguing questions about their origins.

Recent observations made by astronomers utilizing the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) have revealed compact red entities from the universe’s first billion years, dubbed Little Red Dots (LRD). These were initially believed to be associated with phenomena in the early universe, like the formation of supermassive black holes at the cores of galaxies, including our own.

Xiaojing Lin from China’s Tsinghua University, along with her research team, has discovered LRD in a much younger universe, about 12 billion years post-Big Bang. “This finding demonstrates that the conditions fostering small red dots are not solely confined to the early universe,” states Lin.

The researchers employed a telescope based in New Mexico to analyze images captured during the Sloan Digital Sky Survey. They pinpointed three objects that appeared as LRD, but significantly, they were merely 2.5 billion light years apart.

“They meet all criteria for classification as small red dots,” remarks Xiaohui Fan from the University of Arizona. “I believe there’s no doubt regarding their similarity.”

Each LRD is estimated to be approximately one million times the mass of the Sun, with dimensions comparable to the solar system. One of these LRDs is nicknamed the “egg” due to its elongated structure. The team also identified a few other potential LRD candidates awaiting confirmation.

These findings are exhilarating, says Anthony Taylor from the University of Texas at Austin, as they provide unique insights into the characteristics of LRDs. These objects are faint enough that telescopes like the JWST and Hubble can analyze them significantly easier than their early universe counterparts, potentially unveiling their true nature.

“They’re much closer to us, making them appear much brighter,” adds Taylor.

A schematic diagram showing what the local small red dots might be, depicting a black hole at the center, encircled by a significant gas envelope (yellow), streams of gas, clouds, and dust.

Xiaojing Lin with Cass Fan

A potential explanation for LRDs is that they signify the nascent phases of extraordinarily massive black holes maturing within the galaxy, possibly marking their initiation as they begin consuming matter voraciously.

It’s currently unclear whether local LRDs are dormant galaxies that have recently awakened or if they have just formed and are starting to consume significant amounts of material. “At this point, it is premature to discuss that aspect,” Taylor points out.

The team is eager to utilize Hubble and JWST to delve deeper into these local LRDs. “I have a proposal for Hubble pending approval,” Fan comments.

LRDs have the potential to exist not just in contemporary and ancient universes but throughout cosmic history. “They may have been lurking, camouflaged, amidst the cosmos,” Fan remarks. “People haven’t known what to look for.”

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Iron-rich minerals containing water may be the primary reason for the red hue of Mars.

Posted on February 26, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

This iron mineral, called ferihydrite, formed under oxidative conditions during cold, humid periods on early Mars, continuing its transition to the current overheating environment.

This image of Mars Express's high-resolution stereo camera shows Mars glove set on a dark background. The planet's disc has patches of yellow, orange, blue and green, all with a muted gray hue throughout, representing the various compositions of the surface. Image credits: ESA/DLR/FU BERLIN/G. MICHAEL/CC BY-SA 3.0 IGO.

Mars is easily identified in the night sky due to its prominent red tint.

Thanks to a fleet of spacecrafts that have been studying planets over the past decades, this red colour is known to be due to rusty iron minerals in the dust.

In other words, iron bound to the rocks of Mars reacted at one point with water and oxygen in the air, just as how rust on Earth formed.

For more than billions of years, this rusty material, iron oxide — has been broken down into dust around the planet by the wind, a process that continues today.

However, iron oxide has a lot of flavour and the precise chemistry of Mars' rust is heavily debated as it is a window into the environmental conditions of Earth at the time.

And what's closely linked to it is the question of whether Mars has been habitable to date.

Previous studies of the iron oxide components of Martian dust based solely on spacecraft observations found no evidence of water contained within it.

Therefore, planetary researchers say that this particular type of iron oxide is formed under hematite, which is formed under dry surface conditions through reaction with the Martian atmosphere for billions of years after an early wet period on Mars. I had concluded that it had to be.

However, new analysis of spacecraft observations combined with new laboratory techniques shows that Mars' red colour is better matched by iron oxides containing water known as ferihydrite.

Felihydrite usually forms quickly in the presence of cold water, so it must have been formed when Mars was still water on the surface.

The minerals hold a watery signature to this day, despite their spreading down to the ground.

Dr. Adomas Valantinas, a researcher at Brown University, said:

“Ferihydrite, mixed with volcanic rock basalt, has proven to be the most suitable for the minerals found in Martian spacecraft.”

“Mars is still a red planet. It's not only about understanding why Mars is red, but it also means that our understanding has changed.”

“The main meaning is that Mars was rusting faster than before, as ferrihydrite could only form when water was still on the surface.”

“In addition, under current conditions on Mars, ferrihydrite remains stable.”

Mars has acquired its iconic color from the combination of rust and erosion over its 4.6 billion years of history. Image credits: ESA/ATG Europe/Valantinas et al. , doi: 10.1038/s41467-025-56970-z.

Other studies have also suggested that ferrihydrite may be present in Mars' dust, but the current study has been the first comprehensive study through a unique combination of space mission data and new laboratory experiments. Provide evidence.

The authors used an advanced grinder machine to create replica Mars dust, achieving realistic dust grain sizes equivalent to 1/100th of human hair.

To make a direct comparison, the samples were then analyzed using the same technology as the spacecraft orbiting the spacecraft, and ultimately identified ferrihydrite as the best match.

“This study is the result of a complementary dataset from a fleet of international missions exploring Mars at orbital and ground levels,” says Dr. Colin Wilson, PhD, Trace Gas Orbiter (TGO) from ESA and Mars Express Project Scientist. said.

Mars Express's dust mineralogy analysis helped to show that even the highly dusty regions of the planet contain water-rich minerals.

Also, thanks to TGO's unique trajectory, you can see the same area at different lighting conditions and angles. Researchers can unravel the particle size and composition essential to replicate the correct dust size in the lab.

Data from NASA's Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter and ground-based measurements from NASA's Mars Rovers Curiosity, Pathfinder and opportunity also helped to assert ferrihydrite.

“We are eagerly awaiting the results of our upcoming missions, including ESA's Rosalind Franklin Rover and sample returns from NASA/ESA Mars.

“Some of the samples that have already been collected by NASA's Perseverance Rover and are waiting for their return to Earth contain dust. Putting these precious samples into the lab will result in dust. You can accurately measure the amount of ferihydrite contained and what this means to understand the history of water and the potential for life on Mars.”

“This research is an opening opportunity for the door,” said Dr. Jack Mustard, a planetary scientist at Brown University.

“It gives us a better opportunity to apply the principles of mineral formation and conditions and tap time.”

“More importantly, the return of samples from Mars, which are currently being collected through patience.”

Survey results It will be displayed in the journal Natural Communication.

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A. Valantinas et al. 2025. Detection of ferrihydrite in the red dust of Mars records ancient cold and wet conditions on Mars. Nut commune 16, 1712; doi:10.1038/s41467-025-56970-z

Source: www.sci.news

New research suggests that the powerful Marzcake shock can travel to even more distant red planets than believed.

Posted on February 5, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

In new research, researchers on the planetary Used Global and high -resolution orbital images to discover fresh 21.5 m (71 feet) impact craters that appeared at the same time as one of the Marsquakes detected by NASA's Insight Lander. This means that the seismometer detected a meteor strike, not a geological activity in the planet. In the related research, they scan Through a large number of orbital image data, the 123 shock crater was formed from December 2018 to December 2022.

Calambus et al。 Textonically Active Cerberus Fossae A new 21.5-m MARS Impact Crater is associated with the Insight earthquake event S0794A. Image credit: NASA / JPL-CALTECH / Arizona University.

NASA's Insight Lander set the first seismometer on Mars and detected more than 1,300 Marsquakes. This is generated by the shaking deep of the planet (caused by a rock broken under heat and pressure) and a cosmic rock that collides with the surface.

Scientists not only glimpse the inside of Mars, as science glimpses how the waves of the earthquake change from these earthquakes when passing through the earth's crust, mantle, and core. I understand how all the rocky world, including the month, is formed.

In the past, researchers shot new shock craters images and found seismic data that matched the date and location of the crater layer.

However, two new studies indicate that the shaking and the new effects detected in Cerberus Fossae, which are particularly prone to earthquakes of 1,640 km (1,019 miles) of 1,640 km (1,019 miles) from insights, are the first correlation. Masu.

The diameter of the shock crater is 21.5 m, which is far from the insight than the scientist expected, based on earthquake energy.

Mars crusts have unique characteristics that are considered to suppress seismic waves generated by impact. The new analysis of Cerberusfossae concluded that the generated waves take more direct routes than the planet mantle.

The Insight team needs to re -evaluate the internal configuration and structural models of Mars, and explain how to make the impact -generated earthquake signals so deep.

“We thought that the energy detected from most of the earthquake events was moving through the crust of Mars,” said Dr. Constantinoscharamanbus, a researcher of Imperial College London. Masu.

“This discovery shows a deeper and faster path -it is called an earthquake highway, so that the earthquake can reach the farthest of the earth through the mantle.”

Researchers also wanted to find a crater within the location of about 3,000 km (1,864 miles) and find something that was formed while the Lander seismometer was recorded.

By comparing images before and after the context camera mounted on NASA's Mars Reconnasance Orbiter (MRO), I found 123 fresh craters to interact with INSIGHT data. Of these, 49 was a potential agreement with the earthquake detected by the Lander seismometer.

“I thought that CERBERUS FOSSAE has generated many high -frequency earthquake signals related to internal generated earthquakes, which suggests that some activities are not born there, and actually from the impact. Dr. Charalambous said.

The results of the survey also emphasize how researchers use AI to improve planetary science by using all data collected by NASA and ESA missions.

“Now, we have a lot of images from the moon and Mars, so the struggle is to process and analyze data,” said Dr. Dr., a member of the Bern University researcher. I mentioned it.

“We have finally arrived in the big data era of planetary science.”

Two new papers are posted journal Global physics research book。

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VT BICKEL et al。 2025. New impact on Mars: Related to systematic identification and insight earthquake events. Global physics research book 52 (3): E2024GL109133; DOI: 10.1029/2024GL109133

Constantinos Chara Ranboo et al。 2025. New impact on Mars: Unleash CERBERUS FOSSAE's shock detection. Global physics research book 52 (3): E2024GL110159; DOI: 10.1029/2024GL110159

Source: www.sci.news

Over 500,000 “TikTok refugees” flock to China’s Red Note as ban on app approaches | Technology

Posted on January 15, 2025 by Igor Mitreski

Days before popular US social media app TikTok is proposed to be banned, Chinese social media app Red Note is seeing a flood of new users as the little-known company eases English language restrictions while strategically taking advantage of the sudden influx.

More than 50,000 users from the United States and China participated in a live chat dubbed “TikTok Refugees” on RedNote on Monday. Veteran Chinese users welcomed the American users, with some trepidation, and exchanged notes on topics such as food and youth unemployment, although at times the conversation delved into more sensitive subjects.

Such impromptu cultural exchanges were happening across Red Note, also known as “Xiaohongshu” in China, as it rose to the top of the US download rankings this week. Its popularity was boosted by social media users in the U.S. who had been searching for alternatives to ByteDance Inc.’s TikTok in the days before its impending ban.

RedNote, a venture capital-backed startup valued at $17 billion, allows users to curate photos, videos, and text to document their lives. With more than 300 million users relying on it for travel tips, anti-aging creams, and restaurant recommendations, the company is considered an IPO candidate in China.

In just two days, over 700,000 new users have joined Xiaohonshu, and Red Note downloads in the U.S. have increased significantly, according to estimates from app data research firm Sensor Tower.

The surge in U.S. users comes ahead of a Jan. 19 deadline for ByteDance to sell TikTok or face a U.S. ban on national security grounds. TikTok is currently used by about 170 million Americans, about half of the U.S. population, and is overwhelmingly popular with young people and advertisers.

Stella Kittrell, a 29-year-old content creator based in Baltimore, Maryland, expressed her support for Americans using Red Note as a response to concerns over business and privacy issues with the U.S. government. She joined RedNote in hopes of collaborating with Chinese companies and finding an alternative to other social media platforms.

Brian Atavansi, a 29-year-old business analyst and content creator from San Diego, California, noted that apps like Instagram and Facebook are not able to recreate the sense of community found on TikTok due to its organic nature.

Source: www.theguardian.com

VLTI captures high-resolution images of red supergiant star in Large Magellanic Cloud

Posted on November 22, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

used by astronomers ESO’s Very Large Telescope Interferometer (VLTI) has taken an enlarged image of the dusty red supergiant star WOH G64.

This image, taken by ESO’s Very Large Telescope Interferometer’s GRAVITY instrument, shows the red supergiant star WOH G64. Image credit: ESO / Onaka others., doi: 10.1051/0004-6361/202451820.

WOH G64 is located in the constellation Shira, about 160,000 light years away.

The star, also known as IRAS 04553-6825, 2MASS J04551048-6820298, or TIC 30186593, is part of the Large Magellanic Cloud, one of the smaller galaxies orbiting the Milky Way.

WOH G64 is approximately 2,000 times larger than the Sun and is classified as a red supergiant star.

“We discovered an egg-shaped cocoon that tightly surrounds this star,” said Dr. Keiichi Onaka, an astrophysicist at Andres Bello University.

“We’re excited because this could be related to the rapid ejection of material from a dying star before it explodes into a supernova.”

“Astronomers have taken zoomed-in images of and characterized about two dozen stars in our Milky Way galaxy, but countless other stars exist in other galaxies. and were so far away that it was very difficult to observe one of them in detail.

Artist’s reconstruction of the red supergiant star WOH G64. Image credit: ESO/L. Calçada.

Dr. Onaka and his colleagues have been interested in WOH G64 for a long time.

In 2005 and 2007, they used VLTI to learn more about the star’s properties and continued their research in the years since. However, the actual appearance of this star remained elusive.

To achieve the desired photos, it was necessary to wait for the development of VLTI’s second generation equipment. gravity.

After comparing the new results with other previous observations of WOH G64, they were surprised to find that the star had become fainter over the past decade.

Professor Gerd Weigert, an astronomer at the Max Planck Institute for Radio Astronomy, said: “We found that this star has undergone significant changes over the past 10 years, and this is a rare opportunity to witness the life of a star in real time.” he said. .

During the final stages of their lives, red supergiant stars like WOH G64 shed their outer layers of gas and dust in a process that lasts thousands of years.

Dr Jacco van Loon, director of the Kiel Observatory at Kiel University, said: “This star is one of the most extreme of its kind and any dramatic changes could bring it closer to an explosive demise. ” he said.

“These ejected materials may also be responsible for the dimming and the unexpected shape of the dust cocoon around the star,” the astronomers said.

The new image shows the cocoon elongating, surprising researchers who had expected a different shape based on previous observations and computer models.

They believe that the cocoon’s egg-like shape could be explained by the star’s molting or the influence of an as-yet-undiscovered companion star.

As the star dims, it becomes increasingly difficult to take other close-up photos, even VLTI.

Nevertheless, in the future, an update of the telescope’s instruments is planned. Gravity+I promise to change this soon.

“Similar follow-up observations using ESO’s instruments will be important for understanding what is happening inside this star,” said Dr. Onaka.

of the team paper Published in a magazine astronomy and astrophysics.

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Kento Ohnaka others. 2024. Image of the innermost circumstellar environment of the red supergiant star WOH G64 in the Large Magellanic Cloud. A&A 691, L15; doi: 10.1051/0004-6361/202451820

Source: www.sci.news

Hubble observations reveal Jupiter’s Great Red Spot is wobbling and changing in size

Posted on October 14, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Astronomers using the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope detected Jupiter’s most distinctive feature, the Great Red Spot, on eight dates over a single 90-day oscillation period from December 2023 to March 2024. I observed it.

simon others. measured the size, shape, brightness, color, and vorticity of the Great Red Spot over one complete oscillation cycle. Image credit: NASA/ESA/Amy Simon, NASA Goddard Space Flight Center/Joseph DePasquale, STScI.

“We knew its motion varied slightly with longitude, but we didn’t expect it to oscillate in magnitude,” said Dr. Amy Simon, an astronomer at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center.

“As far as we know, it has never been identified before.”

“This is really the first time we’ve had a proper imaging rhythm for the Great Red Spot.”

“Using Hubble’s high resolution, we can say that the Great Red Spot is steadily moving in and out at the same time as it moves faster and slower.”

“This was very unexpected. There is no hydrodynamic explanation at this time.”

Dr. Simon and colleagues used Hubble to zoom in on the Great Red Spot and closely observe its size, shape, and subtle color changes.

“If you look closely, you can see that many things are changing every day,” Dr. Simon said.

“This includes ultraviolet observations showing that the clear center of the storm is brightest when the Great Red Spot is at its maximum magnitude during its oscillation period.”

“This indicates less absorption of haze in the upper atmosphere.”

“As the Great Red Spot accelerates and decelerates, it’s working against the jet stream, which has strong north and south winds,” said Dr. Mike Wong, an astronomer at the University of California, Berkeley.

“It’s similar to how having too many ingredients in the middle of a sandwich forces a slice of bread to expand.”

The authors contrasted this with Neptune. On Neptune, dark spots can drift violently within their latitudes without a strong jet stream to hold them in place.

The Great Red Spot is held at southern latitudes trapped between the jet stream, with limited telescopic observations of Earth.

Astronomers predict that the star will continue to shrink and then assume a stable, less elongated shape.

“Currently, we’re overfilling that latitudinal band compared to wind fields,” Dr. Simon said.

“Once it contracts within that band, the wind actually holds it in place.”

“We predict that the size of the Great Red Spot will probably stabilize, but so far Hubble has only observed it for one oscillation period.”

team’s result Published in Planetary Science Journal.

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Amy A. Simon others. 2024. A detailed study of Jupiter’s Great Red Spot over a 90-day oscillation period. planet. Science. J 5,223;doi: 10.3847/PSJ/ad71d1

Source: www.sci.news

Heatwave has led to critical blood shortage for Red Cross

Posted on August 7, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

The American Red Cross is currently dealing with a critical shortage of blood as the nation’s blood supply has decreased by more than 25% since July 1.

Extreme heat and temperatures adversely affected almost 100 blood drives last month in almost every state where the Red Cross collects blood. This weather either decreased attendance at events or led to cancellations.

Blood donations usually decrease during the summer due to travel and seasonal activities, but the Red Cross stated that the extreme heat worsened the situation, resulting in a shortfall of over 19,000 donations in July.

As a consequence, blood is being sent to hospitals faster than donations can be collected.

Donated blood is crucial for various life-saving medical procedures such as surgery, childbirth, and treatment for patients with pregnancy complications, trauma, cancer, and blood disorders, according to the Red Cross.

Nurse Melissa Destros, who works at a Detroit hospital, emphasized the importance of blood for patients in need, particularly new moms and babies. The Red Cross said in a statement that she has witnessed moms requiring massive blood transfusions after childbirth.

The Red Cross urgently requires donors of all blood types, especially type O blood, as it is always in short supply. O-positive is the most common blood type, and O-negative is crucial for emergency transfusions.

Dr. Barry Siegfried, the medical director for the Michigan Red Cross, highlighted the importance of type O blood for emergency care. He stated that donors of all blood types are essential to ensure hospitals have sufficient blood for patient care.

Similarly, Connecticut declared a statewide blood emergency last week due to supplies dropping to less than half of what is typically needed for hospital demand. The Connecticut Blood Center specifically needs emergency donations of type O negative and type O positive blood. NBC Connecticut reported.

Both the Red Cross and the Connecticut Blood Center can help individuals locate local blood drives and donation centers. Red Cross Blood Or call 1-800-RED-CROSS.

If you donate by Aug. 31, the Red Cross will give you a $20 Amazon gift card.

Source: www.nbcnews.com

New study suggests Jupiter’s Great Red Spot may not be the permanent feature reported by Cassini

Posted on June 19, 2024 by Igor Mitreski

Jupiter’s Great Red Spot is perhaps the best-known atmospheric feature and a popular icon among the solar system’s objects. Its large oval shape, contrasting red color, and long lifespan make it easily visible with a small telescope. A new study led by scientists from the University of the Basque Country, based on historical measurements of its size and motion, shows that the present-day Great Red Spot was probably first reported in 1831 and is not a permanent spot observed by Giovanni Domenico Cassini and others between 1665 and 1713.

The Permanent Spot (PS) and the early Great Red Spot (GRS): (a) drawing of the PS by GD Cassini on 19 January 1672, (b) drawing by S. Swave on 10 May 1851, showing the GRS area as a clear ellipse bounded by a depression (depicted by a dashed red line). (c) photograph taken by AA Common on 3 September 1879 using a 91 cm reflecting telescope at Ealing (London). The GRS appears as a clear "dark" ellipse because it is red and the photographic plate is sensitive to violet-blue wavelengths. (d) photograph taken at Lick Observatory on 14 October 1890 using a yellow filter. All figures show astronomical images of Jupiter (south at top, east at left) to preserve the notes on the drawings. Image courtesy of Sánchez-Lavega others., doi: 10.1029/2024GL108993.

Jupiter’s Great Red Spot is the largest and longest-lasting known vortex of any planet in the solar system.

The formation mechanism that produced this feature is unknown, and its longevity is controversial.

It was also unclear whether the Great Red Spot was the dark oval nicknamed the “Eternal Spot” that astronomer Giovanni Domenico Cassini and others reported between 1665 and 1713.

“Speculation about the origin of the Great Red Spot dates back to the first telescopic observations by Giovanni Domenico Cassini, who in 1665 discovered a dark oval at the same latitude as the Great Red Spot, which he named a permanent spot, because it was observed by Cassini and other astronomers until 1713,” said Professor Agustin Sánchez Lavega from the University of the Basque Country.

“For the next 118 years, traces of it were lost, and it was only after 1831 that S. Schwabe again observed a clear, almost elliptical structure at the same latitude as the GRS. This can be considered the first observation of the present-day GRS, possibly of the infant GRS.”

“Since then, the Great Red Spot has been regularly observed by telescopes and by various space probes that have visited the planet up to the present day.”

In their study, the authors analysed the change in the size of the Great Red Spot over time, its structure, and the behaviour of two meteorological structures, the former permanent spot and the Great Red Spot.

To do so, they used historical sources dating back to the mid-17th century, shortly after the telescope was invented.

“Based on our measurements of its size and motion, we infer that it is highly unlikely that the current Great Red Spot is the permanent spot observed by Cassini,” Professor Sanchez LaVega said.

“The permanent spot probably disappeared sometime between the mid-18th and 19th centuries, which would put the lifespan of the red spot at least 190 years.”

“The Red Spot, which in 1879 measured 39,000 kilometres along its longest axis, has now shrunk to about 14,000 kilometres and is becoming rounder at the same time.”

“Furthermore, since the 1970s, several space missions have studied this weather phenomenon in detail.”

“Recently, various instruments on the Juno spacecraft in orbit around Jupiter have shown that the Great Red Spot is shallow and thin compared to its horizontal length. Its vertical length is about 500 km.”

To understand how this giant whirlpool formed, the astronomers ran numerical simulations using two complementary models of the behavior of thin vortices in Jupiter’s atmosphere.

Powerful winds prevail on this giant planet, flowing along parallels that alternate in direction and latitude.

To the north of the Great Red Spot, winds blow westward at 180 km/h, while to the south, winds blow in the opposite direction, eastward at 150 km/h.

This creates huge north-south shear in the wind speed, which is the fundamental element that allows vortices to grow internally.

The study explored a variety of mechanisms to explain the formation of the Great Red Spot, including the eruption of a giant superstorm like those rarely observed around its twin planet Saturn, or the merging of several smaller vortices caused by sheared winds.

The results show that although anticyclones form in both cases, their shapes and dynamic characteristics are different from those of the present-day Great Red Spot.

“We believe that if one of these anomalies had occurred, it, or its effects in the atmosphere, would have been observed and reported by astronomers at the time,” Prof Sanchez Lavega said.

In a third set of numerical experiments, the researchers investigated how the GRS may arise from known instabilities in the winds that they believe could produce elongated cells that surround and trap the GRS.

Such cells were early red spots, the proto-Great Red Spot, whose subsequent shrinkage would give rise to the compact, rapidly rotating Great Red Spot observed in the late 19th century.

The formation of large elongated cells has already been observed during the emergence of other major vortices on Jupiter.

“In our simulations, thanks to supercomputers, we were able to find that elongated cells are stable when they rotate around the Great Red Spot at the speed of Jupiter’s winds, which is what you would expect to form due to this instability,” said Dr Enrique García Melendo, an astronomer at the Polytechnic University of Catalonia.

Using two different numerical models, the scientists concluded that if the GRS rotated slower than the surrounding winds, it would break up and the formation of a stable vortex would be impossible.

And if it were very high, the properties of the primordial Great Red Spot would be different from those of the current Great Red Spot.

“Future studies will aim to reconstruct the Great Red Spot’s shrinkage over time and elucidate in more detail the physical mechanisms underlying its persistence,” the authors wrote.

“At the same time, we try to predict whether the Great Red Spot will collapse and disappear when it reaches its size limit, as happened with Cassini’s permanent spot, or whether it will remain stable at its size limit and persist for many years.”

of result Published in a journal Geophysical Research Letters.

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Agustin Sanchez Lavega others2024. Origin of Jupiter’s Great Red Spot. Geophysical Research Letters 51(12):e2024GL108993; doi:10.1029/2024GL108993

Source: www.sci.news

Understanding the Red River Hog: A Overview

Posted on December 30, 2023 by Igor Mitreski

Pigs are charismatic and intelligent animals, but this piglet prefers ginger biscuits. The red river hog, also known as the “dwarf pig”, is a wild swine native to western and central Africa.

Featuring a striking red coat, they are the most colorful of the pigs. Its bright fur is covered by a thin white mane that runs the length of its back, on stubby black legs and sturdy treadles.

Its face is part ALF (an alien life form from the 80's American sitcom) and part Dobby the house elf (from the movie). Harry potter story).

Whiskers protrude from the base of its long black nose, and its jet-black eyes are framed by bold white markings. Contrasting markings are a form of camouflage called disruptive coloration, which breaks up the animal's outline so that it blends into the background.

But those ears are the main event. The tapered triangle gives way to spectacular long tufts of hair that frame the face and add a touch of wizardly chic to this animal's unconventional beauty.

Red River Hog lives small group Approximately 4 to 20 animals called sounders. It is found in rainforests and adjacent savannahs, often near rivers and swamps. Each sounder is led by a boar and oversees a harem of females and their young.

Weighing between 50 and 100 kg (110 and 220 lb), they may be among the smaller pigs, but they are energetic. Males fend off rivals by head-butting, snouting, and whipping each other with their tails, and easily protect their families from leopards, spotted hyenas, and pythons.

Within groups, individuals communicate with an inventive repertoire of moans and shrieks. They take a nap and forage for food at night. Like all pigs, red river hogs are omnivorous and will eat anything they can find. Fruits, seeds, nuts, eggs, snails, carrion, and lizards are all prey, as are livestock and crops such as goats and cassava.

They use their teeth to dig for roots, bulbs, and insects, and swim to forage for aquatic plants. They also have a fondness for Boko tree seeds (Balanite Wilsoana), they find undigested material in elephant feces or by following chimpanzees in the hopes of finding fallen fruit.

Females give birth to up to six piglets between February at the end of the dry season and July in the middle of the rainy season. Mothers build temporary nests out of dead leaves and grass and take care of their children while being protected by wild boars.

Piglets initially develop dark brown fur with yellow stripes and spots, are weaned at four months of age, and grow ginger-like fur after two months. The black spots on the face fully mature after about two years.

Although the species is not currently endangered, there are concerns that local populations could decline as pigs continue to encroach on farmland and the bushmeat trade intensifies. It's time for people to come together and save this piggy bacon before things get worse.

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To submit a question, please email questions@sciencefocus.com (remember to include your name and location)

Source: www.sciencefocus.com

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