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Science News for October 19, 1999


A safer way of altering genes

Researchers at Chromos Molecular Systems have successfully passed an artificial chromosome to their offspring, paving the way for practical germline gene therapy. The technology could enable genetic changes to be inherited without disrupting other genes, offering a safer alternative to current methods.

SourceNew Scientist·JournalThe New Scientist·DateOct 19, 1999

A new type of explosive detector

A new laser-based explosive detector can detect minuscule explosives emissions from landmines, offering an alternative to sniffer dogs. The detector uses an ultra-smooth cube of silica crystal with a single curved face and measures the 'ring-down time' of a laser pulse as it passes through the crystal.

SourceNew Scientist·JournalThe New Scientist·DateOct 19, 1999

Moon mystery

Amateur astronomers reported brief changes on the Moon's surface, but their claims were never confirmed until now. A team of scientists has found evidence supporting these observations using satellite data from the Clementine mission.

SourceNew Scientist·JournalThe New Scientist·DateOct 19, 1999