A new COVID-19 variant, NB.1.8.1 or "Nimbus," is spreading globally, causing painful sore throats, dubbed "razor blade throat." Primarily affecting the eastern Mediterranean, Southeast Asia, and western Pacific regions, it's been detected in the US. While some Western Pacific countries report increased cases and hospitalizations, current vaccines remain effective, and the WHO considers the public health risk low.
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Nasa's Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter has captured images of the crash site of ispace's lunar lander, Resilience, which impacted Mare Frigoris on the moon's far north. The images reveal a dark smudge and a faint halo of lunar dirt, marking the second failed landing attempt for the Tokyo-based company in two years.
SpaceX successfully launched 26 more Starlink satellites into low Earth orbit from California, expanding its global broadband network. The Falcon 9 rocket, on its third flight, deployed the satellites as part of the Group 15-9 mission. The booster landed successfully on a droneship, ensuring its reuse for future launches, supporting SpaceX's goal of cost-effective space access.
Researchers discovered a hidden island near Rio Grande. The island has abundant rare earth elements. This finding could revolutionize green technology. Scientists believe the island was once part of a large tropical landmass. The site may hold evidence of past human habitation. Further research will explore the island's history and composition. This discovery could transform natural resource acquisition.
Birds undertake remarkable migrations, utilizing a complex navigation system that combines familiar senses with extraordinary abilities. They rely on landmarks, the sun, stars, and even the Earth's magnetic fields to find their way. Researchers are unraveling these mechanisms, potentially aiding conservation efforts by understanding the genetic basis of migratory routes.
A recent study of 514-million-year-old archaeocyathid reefs in Nevada reveals that early reefs didn't consistently boost biodiversity like modern coral reefs. Researchers found inconsistent patterns of marine life around these ancient reefs, largely dependent on localized conditions. This discovery challenges assumptions about reef ecosystems and offers insights into the evolution of marine systems.
Astronomers have observed thick, mineral-rich clouds, potentially containing iron, enveloping the young exoplanet YSES-1b, leading to the possibility of iron rain. The YSES-1 system, only a million years old, features two gas giants, offering a unique opportunity to study planet formation. Researchers are intrigued by the persistent dust disk around YSES-1b, challenging existing planet formation theories.
Group Captain Subhanshu Shukla will carry a mission badge designed by Manish Tripathi on the Axiom-4 mission, symbolizing India's space ambitions and cultural heritage. The emblem, a fusion of tradition and technology, features elements like the Gaganyaan icon, Aryabhata satellite, Jantar Mantar observatory, and India's map, representing the nation's journey in space exploration.
Global warming and climate change are environmental issues. Human activities cause these problems. Burning fossil fuels and deforestation are major factors. These activities increase greenhouse gases. This leads to rising temperatures and extreme weather. Melting glaciers and rising sea levels are also concerns. Renewable energy and afforestation can help. Reducing waste and conserving energy are important steps.
A groundbreaking study in Dublin reveals the presence of environmental DNA (eDNA) in the air, encompassing genetic material from various organisms and even illicit substances. This innovative approach, utilizing simple air filters, enables scientists to monitor biodiversity, detect pathogens, and track human activities without direct contact. Ethical considerations regarding data privacy are crucial as this technology advances.
SpaceX successfully launched 26 Starlink satellites from California's Vandenberg Space Force Base on Monday. The Falcon 9 rocket, making its third flight, deployed the satellites into low Earth orbit. The rocket's first stage landed on the drone ship in the Pacific Ocean. This launch follows a similar Starlink deployment from Florida, which completed the first-generation Starlink direct-to-cell satellite constellation.