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Microbes Uncovered in Amazon Peatlands Could Alter Global Carbon Dynamics
Microscopic organisms found in the tropical peatlands of Peru’s northwestern Amazon are helping regulate the carbon cycle, a key factor in Earth’s climate. These microbes, part of the Bathyarchaeia group, thrive in waterlogged, oxygen-deprived conditions and exhibit unique metabolic behaviours that either store or release carbon. Researchers wa...
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Two Private Lunar Landers Launch Aboard SpaceX Falcon 9 for Moon Missions
Marking a milestone in space exploration, two private lunar landers, Blue Ghost by Firefly Aerospace and Resilience by ispace, were launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center on January 15. Blue Ghost, under NASA's CLPS program, will study lunar regolith and environmental elements, landing in Mare Crisium. Resilienc...
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PFAS Chemicals Harm Freshwater Turtles in Australia, New Research Finds
Recent studies have highlighted the alarming effects of PFAS (forever chemicals) on freshwater turtles in Australia. The research, led by environmental biochemist David Beale and his team, discovered that PFAS exposure is causing serious health issues in both adult turtles and their hatchlings. The chemicals accumulate in key organs like the liver,...
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Scientists Uncover Remains of Larger Mesosaurs in Uruguay’s Ancient Seas
Paleontologists in Uruguay have uncovered fossils of mesosaurs that exceed previous size records, revealing that these ancient reptiles may have grown to lengths of up to 2.5 metres. The specimens, found in the Mangrullo Formation, include fragmentary skulls and other bones, offering a glimpse into the gigantism that occurred in mature mesosaurs. R...
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Crystal-Based Cooling Technology Could Offer Sustainable Solution for Fridges and Air Conditioners
A new crystal-based cooling technology could significantly reduce the environmental impact of refrigerators and air conditioners. The unique plastic crystals absorb heat under pressure, providing a climate-friendly alternative to traditional refrigerants. However, challenges remain, such as the extreme pressures required for operation. Experts expr...
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Lake Mendota's Bacteria Are Stuck in an Evolutionary Loop, Finds Study
Research in Lake Mendota reveals seasonal bacterial evolution, with microbes adapting to environmental shifts over 20 years. Despite rapid changes, many species return to prior genetic states, highlighting cyclical evolution patterns. Extreme weather events, like those seen in 2012, led to lasting genetic adaptations, offering insights into how mic...
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Common Noctule Bats Use Warm Winds to Migrate More Than 1000 km Across Europe, Claims Study
Researchers have tracked the migration of common noctule bats using lightweight transmitters, uncovering their remarkable ability to travel over 1000 kilometers in just a few days. These bats adapt their routes and timing based on environmental factors, such as tailwinds and warming weather conditions, to maximise efficiency. The study provides cri...
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New Species Discovered in Peru’s Alto Mayo Region, Including Blob-Headed Catfish
A recent biodiversity survey in Peru’s Alto Mayo region led to the discovery of 27 new species, including a unique blob-headed bristlemouth armored catfish. The survey, conducted by Conservation International, uncovered new mammals, amphibians, fish, butterflies, and plants, emphasizing the area’s ecological importance. Researchers used innovat...
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UNSW Develops Miniature Sensor to Detect Nitrogen Dioxide with High Sensitivity
A team from UNSW Sydney has created a miniature, highly sensitive gas sensor that can detect nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) in real-time without needing external power. This sensor, using innovative 2D-printing technology, addresses common issues in gas detection, such as size and energy consumption. Its sensitivity to NO₂, combined with its ability to...
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NASA’s InSight Mars Lander Captured with Dust Layers by Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter
NASA’s retired InSight Mars lander has been spotted by the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter (MRO) in a recent image taken on October 23, 2024. The image, captured using the HiRISE camera, shows dust accumulation on InSight’s solar panels, now matching the reddish-brown Martian surface. This observation provides insights into wind patterns and dust m...
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Permafrost Thawing Could Accelerate Climate Change, Here’s What It Means
Permafrost, a frozen layer rich in organic matter, is degrading due to rising temperatures. By the end of the century, researchers predict significant thawing, releasing carbon into the atmosphere. In a study by Zhengzhou University and Purdue University, thawing scenarios under two climate pathways (SSP126 and SSP585) project the release of up to ...
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Humpback Whale’s Unprecedented 8,000-Mile Migration Shatters Records
A humpback whale has been tracked on an unprecedented 8,000-mile migration, breaking records for the longest documented journey between breeding grounds. Scientists suggest the movement might be due to climate change affecting food and mating behaviours. AI-driven photo tracking through HappyWhale.com played a key role in identifying the whale’s ...
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KAIST Researchers Increase Lithium Metal Battery Lifespan by 750 Percent with Water-Based Solution
KAIST researchers have developed a groundbreaking method to extend the lifespan of lithium metal batteries by 750%. By using an eco-friendly protective layer made of hollow nanofibres, the team was able to significantly enhance the performance of lithium anodes. This process, which uses guar gum and water, not only improves battery life but also re...
-
Kennedy Space Center's Rocket Engine Test Simulation Launches in 2025
The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is set to debut The Gantry at LC-39 in early 2025. The attraction includes a simulated rocket engine test with visual effects, sound, and interactive exhibits. Visitors can explore launch sites, design and virtually launch rockets, and engage with environmental research at the new Earth Information Center.
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Pregnant Great White Shark Killed in Queensland to Aid in Scientific Research
An 18-foot pregnant great white shark was killed on a Queensland drumline in August. This marks the largest white shark caught by the state’s Shark Control Program since its inception in 1962. While her death is a conservation setback, researchers are using samples from her body to study the species’ biology, reproductive patterns, and environm...
-
Microbes Uncovered in Amazon Peatlands Could Alter Global Carbon Dynamics
Microscopic organisms found in the tropical peatlands of Peru’s northwestern Amazon are helping regulate the carbon cycle, a key factor in Earth’s climate. These microbes, part of the Bathyarchaeia group, thrive in waterlogged, oxygen-deprived conditions and exhibit unique metabolic behaviours that either store or release carbon. Researchers wa...
-
Two Private Lunar Landers Launch Aboard SpaceX Falcon 9 for Moon Missions
Marking a milestone in space exploration, two private lunar landers, Blue Ghost by Firefly Aerospace and Resilience by ispace, were launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center on January 15. Blue Ghost, under NASA's CLPS program, will study lunar regolith and environmental elements, landing in Mare Crisium. Resilienc...
-
PFAS Chemicals Harm Freshwater Turtles in Australia, New Research Finds
Recent studies have highlighted the alarming effects of PFAS (forever chemicals) on freshwater turtles in Australia. The research, led by environmental biochemist David Beale and his team, discovered that PFAS exposure is causing serious health issues in both adult turtles and their hatchlings. The chemicals accumulate in key organs like the liver,...
-
Scientists Uncover Remains of Larger Mesosaurs in Uruguay’s Ancient Seas
Paleontologists in Uruguay have uncovered fossils of mesosaurs that exceed previous size records, revealing that these ancient reptiles may have grown to lengths of up to 2.5 metres. The specimens, found in the Mangrullo Formation, include fragmentary skulls and other bones, offering a glimpse into the gigantism that occurred in mature mesosaurs. R...
-
Crystal-Based Cooling Technology Could Offer Sustainable Solution for Fridges and Air Conditioners
A new crystal-based cooling technology could significantly reduce the environmental impact of refrigerators and air conditioners. The unique plastic crystals absorb heat under pressure, providing a climate-friendly alternative to traditional refrigerants. However, challenges remain, such as the extreme pressures required for operation. Experts expr...
-
Lake Mendota's Bacteria Are Stuck in an Evolutionary Loop, Finds Study
Research in Lake Mendota reveals seasonal bacterial evolution, with microbes adapting to environmental shifts over 20 years. Despite rapid changes, many species return to prior genetic states, highlighting cyclical evolution patterns. Extreme weather events, like those seen in 2012, led to lasting genetic adaptations, offering insights into how mic...
-
Common Noctule Bats Use Warm Winds to Migrate More Than 1000 km Across Europe, Claims Study
Researchers have tracked the migration of common noctule bats using lightweight transmitters, uncovering their remarkable ability to travel over 1000 kilometers in just a few days. These bats adapt their routes and timing based on environmental factors, such as tailwinds and warming weather conditions, to maximise efficiency. The study provides cri...
-
New Species Discovered in Peru’s Alto Mayo Region, Including Blob-Headed Catfish
A recent biodiversity survey in Peru’s Alto Mayo region led to the discovery of 27 new species, including a unique blob-headed bristlemouth armored catfish. The survey, conducted by Conservation International, uncovered new mammals, amphibians, fish, butterflies, and plants, emphasizing the area’s ecological importance. Researchers used innovat...
-
UNSW Develops Miniature Sensor to Detect Nitrogen Dioxide with High Sensitivity
A team from UNSW Sydney has created a miniature, highly sensitive gas sensor that can detect nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) in real-time without needing external power. This sensor, using innovative 2D-printing technology, addresses common issues in gas detection, such as size and energy consumption. Its sensitivity to NO₂, combined with its ability to...
-
NASA’s InSight Mars Lander Captured with Dust Layers by Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter
NASA’s retired InSight Mars lander has been spotted by the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter (MRO) in a recent image taken on October 23, 2024. The image, captured using the HiRISE camera, shows dust accumulation on InSight’s solar panels, now matching the reddish-brown Martian surface. This observation provides insights into wind patterns and dust m...
-
Permafrost Thawing Could Accelerate Climate Change, Here’s What It Means
Permafrost, a frozen layer rich in organic matter, is degrading due to rising temperatures. By the end of the century, researchers predict significant thawing, releasing carbon into the atmosphere. In a study by Zhengzhou University and Purdue University, thawing scenarios under two climate pathways (SSP126 and SSP585) project the release of up to ...
-
Humpback Whale’s Unprecedented 8,000-Mile Migration Shatters Records
A humpback whale has been tracked on an unprecedented 8,000-mile migration, breaking records for the longest documented journey between breeding grounds. Scientists suggest the movement might be due to climate change affecting food and mating behaviours. AI-driven photo tracking through HappyWhale.com played a key role in identifying the whale’s ...
-
KAIST Researchers Increase Lithium Metal Battery Lifespan by 750 Percent with Water-Based Solution
KAIST researchers have developed a groundbreaking method to extend the lifespan of lithium metal batteries by 750%. By using an eco-friendly protective layer made of hollow nanofibres, the team was able to significantly enhance the performance of lithium anodes. This process, which uses guar gum and water, not only improves battery life but also re...
-
Kennedy Space Center's Rocket Engine Test Simulation Launches in 2025
The Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex is set to debut The Gantry at LC-39 in early 2025. The attraction includes a simulated rocket engine test with visual effects, sound, and interactive exhibits. Visitors can explore launch sites, design and virtually launch rockets, and engage with environmental research at the new Earth Information Center.
-
Pregnant Great White Shark Killed in Queensland to Aid in Scientific Research
An 18-foot pregnant great white shark was killed on a Queensland drumline in August. This marks the largest white shark caught by the state’s Shark Control Program since its inception in 1962. While her death is a conservation setback, researchers are using samples from her body to study the species’ biology, reproductive patterns, and environm...
