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.
Eshan Chattopadhyay, an Indian-origin computer scientist at Cornell University, has been awarded the prestigious 2025 Godel Prize for his groundbreaking solution to a decades-old problem in randomness extraction. His work, which builds upon the mentorship of David Zuckerman, has significant implications for cryptography, secure communications, and data compression.
European Space Agency's Proba-3 mission has successfully created artificial solar eclipses using two satellites flying in precise formation. This innovative approach allows scientists to study the sun's corona for extended periods, achieving up to six hours of totality per eclipse. The mission promises a wealth of data, potentially revolutionizing our understanding of the sun's behavior and its impact on Earth.
A recent government report suggests that numerous UFO sightings in the US may be attributed to military disinformation campaigns and covert operations rather than extraterrestrial encounters. The All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office (AARO) uncovered strategies used since the Cold War, including staged evidence and misleading briefings, to obscure classified aircraft programs.
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.
Nasa and Axiom Space delayed the Axiom-4 mission due to leaks in the ISS's Russian module, now deemed "small." Roscosmos is working on repairs, with a possible launch date of June 19. SpaceX has resolved Falcon-9 rocket LOX leak issues. The mission, including India's Shubhanshu Shukla, will proceed once ISS repairs are confirmed.
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.