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HKU astrophysicists contribute to interpreting a possible first-ever Einstein probe observation of a black hole tearing apart a white dwarf

A high-energy cosmic event detected by the China-led Einstein Probe space telescope may mark the moment when an intermediate-mass black hole tears apart and consumes a white dwarf star, according to astrophysicists from The University of Hong Kong. The team provided crucial theoretical judgement that led to the focus on this model.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalScience Bulletin·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 13, 2026

Evidence of a subsurface lava tube on Venus

A team from the University of Trento has identified an empty subsurface lava tube beneath Venus' surface, estimated to be approximately one kilometer in diameter and 375 meters deep. The discovery was made possible by analyzing Magellan's radar images and provides new insights into Venus' volcanic processes and geology.

SourceUniversità di Trento·JournalNature Communications·TypeImaging analysis·DateFeb 9, 2026

HKU and UCLA scientists uncover the mechanism powering “space battery” above auroral regions

A new study by HKU and UCLA scientists reveals that Alfvén waves act as an invisible power source, driving charged particles into the atmosphere and producing glowing auroral lights. The research provides a definitive answer to the physics of Earth's aurora and offers a universal model applicable to other planets in our solar system.

SourceThe University of Hong Kong·JournalNature Communications·TypeObservational study·DateFeb 5, 2026

New parameterization method for cislunar space cataloging enhances orbital awareness in Earth-Moon system

A novel parameterization method for orbits near collinear libration points has been developed, allowing for systematic cataloging and robust identification of cislunar objects. The method enables the characterization of motion along two directions, providing critical insight into spacecraft maneuvers and transfer events.

SourceTsinghua University Press·JournalChinese Journal of Aeronautics·DateJan 13, 2026

KAIST-UEL team develops “origami” airless wheel to explore lunar caves

The KAIST-UEL team has developed a transformative wheel capable of traversing the Moon's extreme terrains, including steep lunar pits and lava tubes. The 'origami' airless wheel expands from a compact size to overcome obstacles, while utilizing flexible materials and specialized design elements to withstand harsh lunar conditions.

SourceThe Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST)·JournalScience Robotics·TypeMeta-analysis·DateDec 17, 2025

Dynamic duo of bacteria could change Mars dust into versatile building material for first human colonists

A collaboration of bacteria, including Sporosarcina pasteurii and Chroococcidiopsis, produces natural cement-like materials that can turn Martian regolith into solid concrete. This discovery has the potential to revolutionize construction on Mars and provide benefits for habitat integrity and life-support systems.

SourceFrontiers·JournalFrontiers in Microbiology·TypeExperimental study·DateDec 2, 2025

Scientists get a first look at the innermost region of a white dwarf system

Researchers used NASA's IXPE telescope to study the innermost region of an intermediate polar, revealing a surprisingly high degree of X-ray polarization and an unexpected direction of polarization. The team found that X-rays were emitted from a column of white-hot material pulled in by the white dwarf's strong magnetic field.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·DateNov 20, 2025

New study shows critical role of satellites in climate adaptation

A new study by University of Galway researchers highlights satellites' unique role in climate adaptation, providing objective and repeatable measurements spanning up to 60 years. The research demonstrates how satellite data can inform adaptation tracking across multiple sectors, supporting the Paris Agreement's Global Goal on Adaptation.

SourceUniversity of Galway·Journalnpj Climate and Atmospheric Science·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateNov 14, 2025

Back to the future: Is light-speed analog computing on the horizon?

Scientists have developed a programmable electronic circuit that harnesses high-frequency electromagnetic waves to perform complex parallel processing at light-speed. This breakthrough has the potential to power next-generation wireless networks, real-time radar, and advanced monitoring in various industries.

SourceUniversity of Technology Sydney·JournalNature Communications·TypeComputational simulation/modeling·DateOct 6, 2025

UC3M participates in research to protect astronaut' cardiovascular and ocular health

Researchers from UC3M and the Spanish Space Agency conducted a parabolic flight campaign to study microgravity's effects on human body, testing an innovative technique to protect cardiovascular and ocular health. The results will be crucial for future space exploration and could have applications on Earth for treating vascular diseases.

SourceUniversidad Carlos III de Madrid·TypeExperimental study·DateSep 15, 2025

Researchers uncover potential biosignatures on Mars

A new study has revealed chemical signatures of ancient Martian microbial life in the Bright Angel formation, a region of Jezero Crater known for its fine-grained mudstones rich in oxidized iron and organic carbon. The findings suggest that early microorganisms may have played a role in shaping these rocks through redox reactions.

SourceTexas A&M University·JournalNature·DateSep 10, 2025

UMD-led study discovers warm space dust in distant place

Researchers have discovered warm space dust in a reservoir of hot gas surrounding the Makani galaxy, located 100 million years away. The study, led by University of Maryland astronomer Sylvain Veilleux, provides evidence that ejected dust particles can survive long journeys and may be an important ingredient in planet and star formation.

SourceUniversity of Maryland·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal·TypeObservational study·DateSep 3, 2025

If aliens explore space like us, we should look for their calls to other planets

Researchers at Penn State and NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory analyzed human deep space communications to determine the most likely places to detect signals from an extraterrestrial intelligence. They found that transmissions to deep space, including spacecraft near Mars, are more detectable than those intended for low-Earth orbit.

SourcePenn State·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·TypeData/statistical analysis·DateAug 21, 2025

Astronomers discover star-shredding black holes hiding in dusty galaxies

Researchers have discovered star-shredding black holes in dusty galaxies, confirming that these events are powered by dormant black hole accretion. The study uses the James Webb Space Telescope to detect clear fingerprints of black hole activity in four galaxies, revealing key differences between active and dormant black holes.

SourceMassachusetts Institute of Technology·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateJul 24, 2025

Next-gen GNSS delivers real-time positioning with centimeter accuracy

A new approach to Precise Point Positioning with Real-Time Kinematic (PPP-RTK) achieves centimeter-level accuracy using next-generation Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS) constellations and signals. The method dramatically shortens convergence time, sometimes achieving near-instant fixes in various environments.