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.
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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.
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.
A new study reveals that ancient Homo sapiens possessed a unique adaptability, thriving in diverse and challenging environments across Africa before their major dispersal around 50,000 years ago. This "ecological flexibility," as termed by researcher Emily Hallett, enabled them to inhabit rainforests, deserts, and more.
Researchers in Japan have developed a novel plastic that dissolves in seawater within hours, potentially mitigating microplastic pollution. Created from sodium hexametaphosphate and guanidinium ions, this durable, non-flammable plastic can be customized for various applications. Its rapid disintegration in saltwater and the recyclability of its components offer a promising solution to the global plastic crisis.
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.
Asteroid 2024 YR4, though not an Earth threat, now poses a collision risk to the Moon. Scientists estimate a 4.3% chance of impact, potentially ejecting 100 million kilograms of lunar debris into space. This debris could endanger satellites in low Earth orbit, crucial for communication, GPS, and climate monitoring, necessitating international attention and preparedness.
Scientists have achieved a groundbreaking feat by detecting a 13-billion-year-old microwave signal from the Cosmic Dawn using Earth-based telescopes in Chile. This discovery, made by the CLASS project, provides unprecedented insights into the early universe and the formation of the first stars and galaxies.
NASA's James Webb Space Telescope has captured an awe-inspiring image showcasing thousands of galaxies, forming part of the COSMOS-Webb survey. This profound window into the universe reveals star systems both near and far, including galaxies from the early universe. Webb's infrared capabilities enable scientists to study galaxy evolution and interactions across cosmic history, uncovering previously unseen structures.
NASA's GOLD mission made a surprising discovery. It observed X-shaped patterns in the ionosphere. These patterns occurred even during calm space weather. Previously, scientists thought they only happened during solar storms. The finding changes our understanding of the upper atmosphere. It also affects satellite communications and GPS signals. Scientists are now investigating the causes of these unexpected X-shapes.
International Space Station astronauts celebrated with 'space sushi'. Jonny Kim shared the crew's creative meal on social media. They used rice, spam, fish, gochujang, and wasabi. Limited supplies didn't stop them. Astronauts taped surfaces to keep food from floating. The meal boosted morale and fostered connection. Social media users admired their resourcefulness and ingenuity.