Science news - NewsLocker

Lasers help archaeologists study ancient tattoos on Peruvian mummies

14-01-2025 04:00 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Researchers used lasers to uncover intricate tattoo designs on mummies from Peru's ancient Chancay culture. The tattoos, dating around 1250 A.D., reveal geometric shapes visible through non-destructive technology. This study provides insights into artistic representations that are typically preserved on pottery and textiles.

After delay, Blue Origin eyes Tuesday for second attempt at New Glenn launch

14-01-2025 01:41 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Blue Origin’s debut launch of its massive New Glenn rocket, initially scheduled for Monday, was postponed due to ice buildup in critical systems. The company, founded by Jeff Bezos, is eyeing Tuesday for a second attempt, though poor weather may cause further delays. Named after astronaut John Glenn, this ambitious rocket aims to set new milestones in space exploration.

Jeff Bezos' Blue Origin delays New Glenn rocket debut due to technical issues

13-01-2025 09:43 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Blue Origin's first launch of the New Glenn rocket was delayed due to technical issues. The mission, crucial for competing against SpaceX, was halted just minutes before liftoff from Cape Canaveral. The partially reusable rocket aims to carry heavier payloads and has strategic significance for Nasa missions and Amazon’s satellite ventures. No new launch date has been announced yet.

Can we retrieve memories from a dead person’s brain? Discover the science and challenges of memory recovery

13-01-2025 08:11 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Neuroscientists are exploring the possibility of retrieving memories from a dead person's brain, but face significant challenges due to the complex nature of memory storage. Key difficulties include identifying specific neurons tied to memories and the dynamic, reconstructive nature of memory. However, current technology is not advanced enough for precise mapping and retrieval, making this concept currently unfeasible.

Blue Origin set for first launch of giant New Glenn rocket

13-01-2025 04:03 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Jeff Bezos's Blue Origin is set for its first orbital launch with the New Glenn rocket, aiming to challenge Elon Musk's SpaceX. The 320-feet tall rocket will attempt its maiden voyage from Cape Canaveral, with a Defense Department-funded prototype aboard for a six-hour test flight. Success would provide a significant alternative in the competitive space industry.

ICMR study reveals 15 lakh annual surgical site infections in India

12-01-2025 16:32 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

An ICMR report highlights that India sees roughly 15 lakh surgical site infection cases annually, with a higher incidence in orthopaedic procedures at 54.2%. A multicentric study found prolonged surgeries and combination procedures increase SSI risk. Post-discharge surveillance identified 66% of SSI cases.

Study finds petrochemical industries behind winter ozone pollution

12-01-2025 15:19 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Wintertime ozone pollution in Lanzhou, China, is driven by alkene emissions from local petrochemical industries, with levels exceeding 100 ppbv. This occurs without sunlight and accelerates O3 production. Reducing alkene levels by 28.6% or nitrogen oxides by 27.7% could significantly curb O3 levels, highlighting the need for targeted actions in industrial regions.

Fibre in diet may boost the body against infections: Study

12-01-2025 15:14 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

A new study indicates that the gut microbiome composition can predict susceptibility to infections like Klebsiella pneumoniae and E.coli, and altering the diet can impact this. Researchers found that a diet rich in fiber boosts beneficial bacteria, which protect against these infections. This research suggests dietary changes may be an effective strategy to enhance gut health and prevent disease.

SpaDeX satellites at 230m distance, health normal

11-01-2025 14:00 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

By Saturday evening, ISRO's SpaDeX satellites achieved a 230m distance from 1.5km. The space agency stated spacecraft health is normal and all sensors are being evaluated. The docking attempt has been postponed twice due to required validations and unexpected drifts. ISRO continues preparations for this complex process, aiming to achieve docking in space soon.

In a first, Indian university grows spinach tissue in space

11-01-2025 12:36 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

India's first non-Isro biological space experiment, conducted by Amity University Mumbai, successfully demonstrates spinach tissue growth in zero gravity. The experiment, part of the PSLV-C60 mission, shows promising initial results, with implications for future space missions like the Bharatiya Antariksh Station.

'We want to go home…': Nasa astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore emotional plead after being stranded in space

10-01-2025 18:09 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore have extended their stay on the ISS due to spacecraft issues. Initially set to return in February 2025, they will now come back in late March, pending Crew-10's successful mission. Despite challenges, their ongoing work includes scientific experiments and spacewalks while maintaining a positive outlook and dedication.

“We want to go home…”: NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore emotional plead after being stranded in space

10-01-2025 18:09 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore have extended their stay on the ISS due to spacecraft issues. Initially set to return in February 2025, they will now come back in late March, pending Crew-10's successful mission. Despite challenges, their ongoing work includes scientific experiments and spacewalks while maintaining a positive outlook and dedication.

Comet G3 ATLAS to be visible from Earth in January 2025; a 160,000-year journey offering once-in-a-lifetime event to view

10-01-2025 12:50 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Comet G3 ATLAS (C/2024) will reach its brightest on January 13, 2025, potentially outshining Venus and Jupiter. Detected in April 2024, its perihelion approach offers a rare viewing opportunity as it may reach -3.2 magnitudes. Observers in the Northern Hemisphere face challenging conditions but could see it on January 12-14, marking a significant astronomical event.

300 million-year-old hotspot linked to the formation of the Great Lakes discovered by scientists; where is it now?

10-01-2025 10:13 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Recent research suggests that the Great Lakes originated from the Cape Verde hotspot under the ancient supercontinent Pangaea. This geological feature significantly influenced the region's formation millions of years ago, alongside glacial activity during the last ice age. Seismic anomalies in the area further support this connection, revealing a complex interplay of volcanic and glacial processes.

Historic: Scientists extract 1.2-million-year-old ice core in Antarctic

10-01-2025 04:13 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

An international team of scientists has drilled nearly two miles into Antarctic bedrock, extracting a 1.2 million-year-old ice core. This breakthrough, achieved by Beyond EPICA at Little Dome C, promises unprecedented insights into Earth's climate history, revealing changes in greenhouse gases and atmospheric conditions over millennia.

Spacecraft buzzes Mercury's north pole and beams back stunning photos

10-01-2025 03:44 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

A spacecraft from the European and Japanese space agencies captured high-resolution images of Mercury's north pole, including permanently shadowed craters and volcanic plains. The BepiColombo mission, which launched in 2018, completed its final flyby, setting it on course to enter Mercury's orbit next year. The spacecraft, carrying two orbiters, aims to study Mercury's poles.

Sunita Williams set to perform her first spacewalk in 12 years to last over 6 hours, marking a new milestone in her space career

10-01-2025 00:30 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Indian-origin astronaut Sunita Williams is preparing for her first spacewalk in 12 years as part of SpaceX Crew-6 mission to the ISS, aiming to repair the NICER X-ray telescope and upgrade the Alpha Magnetic Spectrometer. Williams' return is rescheduled for March 2025 due to technical issues with the Boeing Starliner.

US astronauts upbeat seven months into eight-day mission

09-01-2025 18:01 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Two US astronauts who have been stuck for months on the International Space Station (ISS) said Wednesday they have plenty of food, are not facing a laundry crisis, and don't yet feel like castaways. According to those timelines, Wilmore and Williams are scheduled to spend more than nine months in space.

Drift arrested, SpaDeX satellites under control; minister reviews Isro progress

09-01-2025 15:56 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

ISRO successfully slows down the drift of its spacecraft to move closer for the Space Docking Experiment, assessing its attempt by January 10. Union minister Jitendra Singh discusses ISRO's 2025 goals, including GSLV missions, Gaganyaan human spaceflight test, and an ISRO-NASA collaboration for Earth observation data.

Scientists find simple ways to make piezoelectric materials more effective

09-01-2025 12:30 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Scientists at IISc have found that by reducing the thickness of the piezoelectric ceramic PZT from 0.7mm to 0.2mm, its ability to deform significantly increases. They also discovered manufacturing defects, specifically oxygen vacancies, affecting performance. This breakthrough paves the way for better lead-free piezoelectric materials, enhancing various devices dependent on them.

SpaDeX satellites drift apart, docking pushed for 2nd time

08-01-2025 16:54 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Isro postponed the docking of two SpaDeX satellites set for January 9. The satellites drifted too far apart during a maneuver on January 8. After the launch on December 30, Isro had been preparing for the docking. Docking in space is complex and only the US, Russia, and China have mastered it.

ISRO new chairman Dr . Narayanan: Early life, educational qualifications...

08-01-2025 12:33 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Dr. V. Narayanan is appointed as the new ISRO Chairman, effective January 14, 2025, succeeding S. Somanath. With a strong background in mechanical and cryogenic engineering, Narayanan has played significant roles in various space missions, including Chandrayaan-2 and GSLV Mk III. His leadership is expected to drive ISRO's future advancements in space exploration and satellite technology.

IISc scientists discover brain mechanism behind chemotherapy pain

08-01-2025 09:44 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Indian Institute of Science scientists have discovered how specific brain regions collaborate to manage chronic pain in mice, particularly from chemotherapy. Key findings show the lateral parabrachial nucleus significantly influences pain processing and response while signals from the lateral hypothalamus can reduce pain responses. These insights could improve chronic pain management for cancer patients.

In freezing temperatures, swimmers in China plunge into a river for health and joy

07-01-2025 15:27 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Hardy swimmers in northeast China's Harbin braved freezing temperatures for winter swimming, carving out pools in ice-covered rivers. Chen Xia travelled from Zhejiang province, despite having a cold, to join. Harbin's winter swimming culture dates back to the 1970s, with locals attributing their good health to this icy tradition.

Tibet Earthquake: How Lhasa Block's Tectonic Churn Triggered 7.1 Magnitude Tremors

07-01-2025 13:20 via zeenews.india.com

A powerful earthquake near Mount Everest has shaken Tibet, leaving destruction in its wake and highlighting the region’s complex tectonic dynamics.

NASA warns: China’s Three Gorges Dam could slow Earth’s rotation by 0.06 seconds; here’s how

07-01-2025 08:15 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

NASA reports that the construction and operation of China's Three Gorges Dam have slowed Earth's rotation by 0.06 microseconds due to the redistribution of mass caused by the dam's massive water reservoir. The dam's environmental impact serves as an example of how human activities can alter natural systems on a global scale.

32-year-old woman declared cancer free after UK’s first liver transplant for advanced bowel cancer

06-01-2025 12:27 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Bianca Perea, a 32-year-old woman from Manchester, overcame stage-four bowel cancer after a groundbreaking liver transplant and extensive treatment, including chemotherapy and targeted drug therapy. Diagnosed in 2021, she was declared cancer-free following the surgery, making her the UK's first recipient of such a transplant for advanced bowel cancer.

Diet, lifestyle influences chances of age-related brain disorders: Study

06-01-2025 06:02 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

The scientists at the Allen Institute for Brain Science have identified the molecular changes that occur in the brains of ageing mice and located a hot spot where most damage is centralized. The cells in the area are also connected with metabolism, thus suggesting a connection between diet and brain health.

Rajagopala Chidambaram, India’s atomic weapons man, passes away at 88

04-01-2025 19:23 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Rajagopala Chidambaram, India's leading nuclear weapons designer and key figure in the Pokhran nuclear tests, passed away at 88. He contributed significantly to India's nuclear programme and scientific advancements. Tributes poured in from top scientists and political leaders, acknowledging his groundbreaking work and immense impact on India's strategic capabilities and scientific community.

Life sprouts in space: Isro successfully germinates cowpea seeds in just four days under microgravity conditions

04-01-2025 12:13 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Isro successfully germinates cowpea seeds in microgravity during the PSLV-C60 POEM-4 mission, marking significant progress in space agriculture. Utilizing the Compact Research Module for Orbital Plant Studies (CROPS), the experiment highlights India's advances in space research and the potential for sustainable agricultural methods in space.

Meet the fungi that live in the sea

04-01-2025 10:51 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Marine fungi, thriving in ocean environments, account for 5% of total ocean biomass but most are microscopic. Researchers have limited understanding of their diversity and importance. There are species unique to marine environments and others that could be from land. Evolving adaptations, they cope with varying resources in challenging marine habitats, sometimes developing new forms.

Man behind Pokhran nuclear tests, physicist Rajagopala Chidambaram, passes away

04-01-2025 08:22 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Eminent physicist Rajagopala Chidambaram, pivotal in India’s 1974 and 1998 nuclear tests, passed away at 88. He held significant roles, including principal scientific adviser and director of Bhabha Atomic Research Centre. Chidambaram's leadership established India as a nuclear power, earning him the Padma Shri and Padma Vibhushan.

Alcohol should have cancer warning label: Top US Surgeon

03-01-2025 16:32 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

The US Surgeon General warned about the cancer risks associated with alcohol consumption and the need for updated health warning labels. Alcohol is linked to seven types of cancer, including breast and liver cancer. Even minimal consumption can pose risks. Current guidelines suggesting moderate drinking are being questioned due to cancer links.

China achieves breakthrough in medicine with world’s first surgery via satellite

03-01-2025 16:21 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

China has successfully performed the world’s first satellite-based, ultra-remote surgeries using the Apstar-6D communications satellite. Doctors from multiple locations conducted complex operations on patients in Beijing with the aid of a robotic surgical system, demonstrating the feasibility and safety of such procedures even at vast distances.

Poor sleep related with inability to keep unwanted memories at bay, study finds

03-01-2025 12:08 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Poor sleep can affect mental health by impairing the brain's ability to suppress unwanted memories. A study showed that sleep-deprived individuals struggle to engage brain regions for memory control. REM sleep was found to help restore these functions, highlighting sleep's role in memory and emotional regulation.

Astronomical events in 2025 you shouldn't miss: Dates, details, and where they will be visible

03-01-2025 02:30 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

2025 promises remarkable celestial events for stargazers, including the Quadrantid meteor shower, lunar and solar eclipses, Saturn's rings edge-on, and three supermoons. Spectacular aurora borealis displays are expected in high-latitude regions while worldwide viewings of the Pleiades and Moon crossing offer stunning sights. Mark your calendars for an unforgettable astronomical year.

Top secret lab developing UK's first quantum clock, to enhance military intelligence

02-01-2025 17:44 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

The UK defence ministry has announced the development of the nation's first quantum clock to enhance military intelligence by reducing reliance on GPS. Set for deployment within five years, this breakthrough in quantum technology promises precise navigation, strategic advantages in cyber warfare, and significant progress in industry, science, and high-skilled jobs.

Jurassic journey unearthed: 150-metre dinosaur super highway discovered in Oxfordshire

02-01-2025 17:23 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Scientists from Oxford and Birmingham Universities uncovered extensive dinosaur footprints from the Middle Jurassic Period in Oxfordshire. The discovery includes trackways from Megalosaurus and herbivorous sauropods, offering insights into dinosaur behavior and interactions. The excavation will be showcased on BBC Two's Digging for Britain and featured in Oxford University Museum's new exhibition. Over 200 footprints were documented for future research.

Nasa warning: Two aeroplane-sized asteroids approaching earth today – key details, timing, and impact

02-01-2025 06:51 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Two asteroids, 2024 YF7 and 2024 YR9, are set to pass near Earth in early January. NASA confirms no immediate threat but emphasizes the importance of tracking such objects for solar system insights and planetary defense. These events help scientists understand early solar system conditions and prepare for potential future risks.

2025’s first meteor shower 'Quadrantid' to light up the skies: When to watch in India

02-01-2025 05:28 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

The first weekend of 2025 brings the Quadrantid meteor shower, peaking on January 3rd-4th with 80 meteors per hour. Viewing is best from the Northern Hemisphere, despite cold and brief peak window. The Quadrantids, from asteroid 2003 EH1, offer bright fireballs and are named after the historical constellation Quadrans Muralis.

India reports decline in greenhouse gas emissions and GDP emission intensity

01-01-2025 18:17 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

India's greenhouse gas emissions fell by 7.93% in 2020 compared to 2019. Emission intensity dropped 36% from 2005 to 2020, highlighting India's progress in decoupling economic growth from emissions. In 2020, the energy sector was the largest emissions contributor, while the LULUCF sector reduced net emissions significantly. India is committed to reducing GDP emission intensity by 45% by 2030.

Isro lining up half-a-dozen big launches in first half of 2025: Space minister

31-12-2024 23:14 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

In 2025, Isro will have a significant year with several key missions, including the launch of NVS-02 navigation satellite, the unmanned Gaganyaan mission featuring Vyommitra, and the Indo-US NISAR satellite, among others. The space agency looks to bolster its commercial satellite launch revenue, enhancing its global space economy stature.

Start 2025 with Quadrantid Meteor Shower: Here's what to expect

31-12-2024 17:03 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

New Yorkers can witness the Quadrantid meteor shower in the first week of January 2025 with up to 40 meteors per hour. Mars will also be visible at its brightest. Additionally, Venus, Saturn, Jupiter, and Mars will be prominently visible, along with an astronomical event where the Moon will pass in front of Mars.

16 celebrations, 90 minutes apart: Sunita Williams' unique New Year aboard the ISS

31-12-2024 15:06 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

Indian-American astronaut Sunita Williams and her team on the ISS will welcome 2025 with 16 sunrises and sunsets, extending their mission due to technical issues. They will celebrate with special meals, video calls with loved ones, and continue vital scientific research while in space.

Space time of 2024: Top exploration milestones of the year

31-12-2024 13:42 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

2024 was a year of tremendous breakthroughs in space exploration. From Isro's low-cost small satellite launch vehicle to Nasa's Perseverance rover discovering signs of ancient microbial life on Mars, the year was full of historic scientific achievements. China and other space agencies also made great strides in space missions this year.

Northern lights may arrive just in time for New Year's Eve: When, where and how to watch in the US

31-12-2024 11:38 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

A geomagnetic storm is expected to bring the northern lights into view across the northern US on New Year's Eve and New Year's Day. The phenomenon, caused by solar particles hitting Earth's atmosphere, will be visible in parts of northern states from Alaska to Maine.

India's Space Odyssey: ISRO's PSLV-C60 SpaDeX Mission Signals the Dawn of a New Era in Space Docking

31-12-2024 08:30 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

ISRO's PSLV-C60 mission, launched on December 30, 2024, aims to achieve India’s first in-space docking through the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX). Two satellites, SDX01 and SDX02, will attempt the maneuver on January 7, 2025. Success will position India among space pioneers and boost future missions like Chandrayaan-4 and the Bhartiya Antrish Station.

ISRO Prepares To Launch NVS-02 Satellite In January 2025: ISRO Chief

31-12-2024 02:17 via zeenews.india.com

ISRO's PSLV-C60 launch marked its 99th mission from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, with upcoming NVS-02, Chandrayaan-4 docking, and the 100th launch in 2025.

ISRO Space Docking Experiment: Primary SpaDeX Spacecraft A And B Onboard PSLV-C60 Successfully Separated

30-12-2024 17:57 via zeenews.india.com

Billed as a prelude to ISRO's setting up its own Space Station by 2035, the 44.5 metre tall Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) carried Spacecraft A and B, each weighing 220kg that would help in space docking, satellite servicing and interplanetary missions.

Isro launches space docking satellites, India on path to elite club; PSLV last stage has 24 payloads

30-12-2024 17:47 via timesofindia.indiatimes.com

India neared joining nations with space-docking technology as Isro launched the SpaDeX mission, putting two satellites in space for docking attempts. The mission, crucial for Chandrayaan-4 and Bhartiya Antriksh Station, also included astrobiology experiments and payloads from private sector startups and educational institutions onboard POEM.