A challenge to the Big Bang model A bold new theory suggests that gravitational waves — ripples in spacetime first predicted by Albert Einstein in 1915 — may have created the very matter that shaped our universe. This idea could shift our understanding of cosmic origins and offer a simpler alternative to the long-standing Big Bang inflation model. Traditionally, the Big Bang theory relies on the “inflationary paradigm.” This model suggests that the universe underwent rapid expansion shortly after its birth. While it explains many features of the cosmos, it also depends on several flexible parameters. Scientists often adjust these…
Author: Arushi Pandey
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Interstellar Comet 3I/ATLAS Offers Rare Space Mission Opportunity Scientists are preparing for a unique opportunity to study Comet 3I/ATLAS, an interstellar object racing through our solar system. This rare visitor may reveal secrets from the early days of our galaxy, offering a glimpse into material much older than the sun and planets. Ancient Comet From the Galaxy’s Thick Disk Discovered on 1 July by the ATLAS survey, 3I/ATLAS is only the third known object believed to have entered our solar system from another star. It is travelling at around 130,000 mph (219,000 km/h). Research suggests it may come from the…
Study Reveals Fractured Interior Using NASA’s InSight Data Scientists studying seismic activity on Mars have discovered that the planet’s mantle is not smooth and uniform, but instead made up of ancient fragments left over from its violent formation billions of years ago. The findings, published in Science, are based on seismic data collected by NASA’s InSight mission. They challenge traditional models of rocky planets, which assume neatly layered interiors. Instead, Mars’ mantle follows a fractal pattern, with large chunks up to 4 km wide surrounded by many smaller ones. “What we found was quite unexpected,” said Dr Constantinos Charalambous of…
Nigerian Egusi Seeds Make Symbolic Journey to Space When Nigerian researcher Temidayo Oniosun chose egusi melon seeds for a space mission, it was more than just science. It was a cultural statement. The humble seed, commonly used in many West African dishes, became a symbol of African heritage on board the International Space Station (ISS). Launched earlier this month from NASA’s Kennedy Space Center in Florida, the egusi seeds joined other heritage seeds from around the world in an extraordinary journey beyond Earth. A Seed That Tells a Story Egusi is a popular ingredient across Nigeria and West Africa. It…
Malaysia Eyes Growth in Rare Earths Sector China has expressed readiness to support Malaysia in developing its rare earths industry. However, it has set a clear condition: any cooperation must involve only Malaysian state-linked companies. Malaysia aims to build up its rare earths mining and processing capabilities. The country wants to take advantage of the growing global demand for critical minerals used in electric vehicles, semiconductor chips and military technologies. In a written reply to Malaysia’s Parliament, Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability Minister Johari Abdul Ghani confirmed that Chinese President Xi Jinping conveyed China’s offer during his visit to Kuala…
EU 2035 Vehicle Emission Targets Now Unachievable, Say Auto Industry Leaders The European Union’s ambitious targets to cut carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from vehicles, including a complete reduction for new cars by 2035, are no longer realistic, according to key leaders in the automotive industry. This view was shared on Wednesday by the heads of the European automobile manufacturers’ and automotive suppliers’ associations. Industry Pressures Prompt High-Level Talks European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is preparing to meet with top automotive executives on 12 September. The meeting comes at a critical time, with the European car sector under pressure…
Court Seeks Independent Investigation Into Animal Acquisitions India’s Supreme Court has ordered an independent investigation into Vantara, a wildlife rescue and rehabilitation centre run by the Reliance Foundation, the philanthropic arm of billionaire Mukesh Ambani’s group. The court acted on public interest petitions that raised concerns about possible mistreatment of animals and questioned how they were brought to the facility. The court noted that evidence did not support allegations of unlawful acquisitions or cruelty. However, it said a neutral review was necessary because the complaints suggested authorities had failed to discharge their duties. A panel led by a former Supreme…
World’s largest office complex sees little activity amid weak global demand The Surat Diamond Bourse, inaugurated less than a year ago as the world’s largest office complex, was meant to symbolise India’s growing global trade ambitions. Instead, its gleaming glass towers are eerily quiet. Of the 4,700 offices sold in the sprawling hub, fewer than 250 are in use. The reason is a sharp slowdown in India’s diamond trade. Exports have slumped to a two-decade low, hit by weak Chinese demand. Now, higher tariffs imposed by the United States — India’s biggest market — are threatening to push the industry…
Ancient Human Lineage Unearthed Near Bogotá Scientists in Colombia have identified a previously unknown human lineage through DNA sequencing of ancient remains found near Bogotá. The discovery adds a new chapter to the understanding of human migration in the Americas. Uncovering the Checua Lineage The newly identified group has been named the Checua, after the area in Nemocón municipality where their remains were first unearthed in 1992. The group lived around 6,000 years ago during the Pre-ceramic Period. Until now, their DNA had never been fully analysed. Dr Andrea Casas from the National University’s Genetics Institute said that comparisons with…
Nvidia Halts H20 Chip Production Amid China Security Concerns Nvidia has instructed some of its suppliers to pause production of the H20 AI chip, a model designed specifically for the Chinese market, according to a report from The Information. The decision reflects rising uncertainty over the chip’s future, as Chinese authorities voice concerns about potential information security risks. The report states that Nvidia told Arizona-based Amkor Technology to stop work on the H20 this week. South Korea’s Samsung Electronics, which provides high-bandwidth memory for the chip, was also notified. Amkor is responsible for advanced packaging of the model. Neither company…