Simulations 'sharpen' their tools
Physicists validate numerical simulation methods using 40 methods and 15 software packages, confirming high precision. The study's results aim to improve accuracy in theoretical speculation.
Planet Earth
Articles tagged with Planet Earth
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Proof that ancient supernovae zapped Earth sparks hunt for after effects
New research uses iron-60 isotopes to prove ancient supernovae buffeted Earth, dating events between 1.7 million and 8.7 million years ago. Scientists estimate potential effects on human evolution and search for signs of impact on the planet.
UEA research reveals 'topsy turvy' ocean circulation on distant planets
New research from UEA's Centre for Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences found that oceans on distant Earth-like planets with varying salinity levels can significantly impact their climates. The study discovered that extreme salinity levels could lead to dramatic warming in polar regions, potentially extending a planet's habitability.
ALMA's most detailed image of a protoplanetary disc
Astronomers have captured the most detailed image yet of a protoplanetary disc around the young star TW Hydrae, revealing concentric dusty bright rings and dark gaps. The new ALMA images show intriguing features that may indicate a planet with an Earth-like orbit is forming in the disc.
Planet formation in Earth-like orbit around a young star
Astronomers have captured unprecedented details of the TW Hydrae disk, which may host a super-Earth or an infant version of our home planet. The images show concentric dusty bright rings and dark gaps, including a tantalizing gap at Earth's distance from the star.
Map of rocky exoplanet reveals a lava world
A team of astronomers has mapped the conditions on 55 Cancri e, a rocky exoplanet about twice the size and eight times the mass of Earth. The planet's hot side is almost completely molten, while its cool side is almost solid, with temperatures varying wildly due to a lack of efficient heat transfer.
Earth-space telescope system produces hot surprise
The scientists combined the Russian RadioAstron satellite with ground-based telescopes to produce a virtual radio telescope over 100,000 miles across. They discovered temperatures hotter than 10 trillion degrees in a quasar, challenging current understanding of quasar jets.
Oddball planet raises questions about origins of 'hot Jupiters'
Scientists have observed an exoplanet named HD 80606 b that orbits its star at incredible distances, experiencing scorching temperatures and then plummeting to extremely cold temperatures as it moves away. This unique system challenges existing theories on the formation of hot Jupiters and may require alternative explanations.
Deadly stars
A team of scientists has found that a star similar to the Sun could potentially create a massive eruption known as a superflare, which could have devastating effects on Earth. The research used data from nearly 100,000 stars to show that superflares are likely formed through the same mechanism as solar flares.
NASA data leads to rare discovery: Earth's moon wandered off axis billions of years ago
A new study published in Nature reports that Earth's moon slowly moved from its original axis around 3 billion years ago. The discovery was made possible by analyzing NASA data indicating lunar polar hydrogen, which is presumed to be ancient ice hidden in craters surrounding the moon's poles.
Global warming pushes wines into uncharted terroir
A study finds that global warming has largely removed drought from the centuries-old early-harvest equation, pushing French grape growers to adapt to hotter climates. As a result, some regions may no longer be suitable for traditional wine varieties, forcing vineyards to change their methods or relocate.
Young sun-like star shows a magnetic field was critical for life on the early Earth
A new study of the young, Sun-like star Kappa Ceti found that a magnetic field played a key role in making a planet conducive to life. The presence of such a field helped shield the atmosphere from intense stellar winds and superflares.
Gravity glasses offer a view of the Earth's interior
Geophysicists use GOCE data to visualize the Earth's crust beneath, shedding new light on plate tectonics and geological characteristics. The technique, developed by TUM researchers, enables three-dimensional imaging of the Earth using two grids – similar to stereoscopic vision with two eyes.
NASA station leads way for improved measurements of Earth orientation, shape
The new system, VGOS, enables precise measurements of the Earth's shape with improved sensitivity and data rates. The system uses broadband antennas to conduct observations in four bands, reducing interference and increasing data rates.
Virtual time machine of Earth's geology now in the cloud
The cloud-based virtual globe portal offers unprecedented speed and ease of use for visualizing Earth's geological evolution. It features interactive reconstructions of supercontinents and 3D visualizations of seafloor geology, allowing users to explore how the planet has changed over time.
NASA's OSIRIS-REx spacecraft in thermal vacuum testing
The OSIRIS-REx spacecraft is being tested in a thermal vacuum chamber to evaluate its performance under extreme conditions. The 22-day test will assess the spacecraft's instruments and systems, ensuring they can withstand the harsh environment of space.
UTSA professor receives grant to study climate change in Earth's distant past
Marina Suarez aims to understand how the Earth functions with high levels of carbon dioxide and how it recovers from extreme conditions. Her research in paleoclimatology will inform current studies on climate change, a pressing global concern.
New study pinpoints stress factor of mega-earthquake off Japan
Researchers pinpoint stress factor behind 2011 Tohoku-oki earthquake by analyzing geological rock formations offshore of Japan. The study provides new insights into the hazard potential of large earthquakes at subduction zones.
NASA Goddard network maintains communications from space to ground
Goddard's Network Integration Center coordinates communications for Near Earth and Space Networks, ensuring reliable data transmission from space to ground. The center has been operational since Project Mercury and supports human spaceflight missions, including those in low-Earth orbit and beyond.
What if extraterrestrial observers called, but nobody heard?
Scientists René Heller and Ralph Pudritz suggest focusing on Earth's transit zone, where our planet passes in front of the sun, to maximize the chances of detecting signals from extraterrestrial observers. The proposed method involves studying the dimming of starlight as a planet crosses its host star's face.
New coronal mass ejection simulations hold promise for future of space weather forecasting
A new simulation code was developed to accurately predict coronal mass ejections (CMEs) and their impact on space weather. The model successfully validated using observational data from the 2003 Halloween CME events, enabling accurate predictions of magnetic fields and arrival times.
Life or illusion? Avoiding 'false positives' in the search for living worlds
Researchers from the Virtual Planetary Laboratory have identified biosignature impostors, which can masquerade as signs of life on exoplanets. By detecting these 'false positive' cases, scientists can avoid misinterpreting oxygen signatures in planetary atmospheres.
The first European earthworm map is drawn
Researchers from eight European countries have mapped the abundance and diversity of earthworms across the continent, highlighting their crucial role in soil health. The study's findings emphasize the need for further data collection to validate the results and improve monitoring.
Climate of Jupiter and Saturn may yield clues to Earth's weather
A team of scientists led by UH professor Liming Li analyze Cassini spacecraft data to understand the seasonal changes on Saturn. They also examine the energy budget for Jupiter and Saturn to better comprehend planetary climate evolution.
Imaging technique may help discover Earth-like planets
A new space imaging technique, using charge injection devices, may help scientists directly image exoplanets next to bright stars. This technology has been successfully tested, enabling the detection of objects 70 million times fainter than the host star's light.
NASA invites public to send artwork to an asteroid
NASA is inviting the public to participate in the #WeTheExplorers campaign by submitting artworks that reflect their spirit of exploration. The artworks will be saved on a chip on the OSIRIS-REx spacecraft, which is scheduled to launch in September and travel to asteroid Bennu.
Sea level rise in 20th century was fastest in 3,000 years, Rutgers-led study finds
A Rutgers University-led study published today reveals that the Earth's sea level rose by about 14 centimeters between 1900 and 2000, a substantial increase for vulnerable coastal areas. Without global warming, sea levels might have declined or risen less than half of this amount.
Remote predictions of fluid flow in fractures possible with new finding
Researchers at Purdue University have discovered a nearly universal scaling relationship between fracture stiffness and fluid flow, allowing for rapid and remote evaluation of fractures. This breakthrough can predict flow paths, evaluate hydraulic integrity, and monitor changes in fluid flow over time.
Oxygen was present in the atmosphere much earlier than previously assumed
Researchers have found evidence of small oxygen concentrations in the Earth's atmosphere 3.8 billion years ago, contrary to previous thought that oxygenation occurred later. This discovery sheds light on the evolution of life on our planet and has significant implications for understanding the pace of life's emergence.
NASA helps power grids weather geomagnetic storms
Scientists from NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center are developing a model called Solar Shield to simulate how space weather affects the US power grid. By analyzing coronal mass ejections and solar wind streams, researchers can predict when and where geomagnetic storms will occur, allowing for proactive measures to protect the grid.
For a special Valentine? Beyond diamonds and gems: The world's rarest minerals
Scientists have inventoried and categorized all of Earth's rare mineral species, revealing clues about the planet's sub-surface conditions and past biological upheavals. The rarest minerals are found at five or fewer locations worldwide and offer insights into what an inter-planetary probe might find.
Studying the solar system with NASA's Webb Telescope
The James Webb Space Telescope will study planets, moons, comets and asteroids in our solar system to understand its formation and potential habitability. Scientists envision monitoring the water cycle on Mars, studying weather patterns on Saturn's moon Titan, and tracking comets to better comprehend our solar system's evolution.
New study challenges Jupiter's role as planetary shield, protecting Earth from comet impacts
A new simulation study suggests that Jupiter's most important role in fostering life on Earth was delivering volatile materials from the outer Solar System. The study also proposes that a Solar System with one or more planets similar to Jupiter located beyond the region of potential terrestrial planets is beneficial for life development.
Examining how terrestrial life's building blocks may have first formed
Scientists propose a new set of cosmic chemical reactions that could have contributed to the formation of life on Earth. Methanol is shown to be more reactive than methane and can give rise to varied hydrocarbons, their derivatives and products.
Consistency of Earth's magnetic field history surprises scientists
Researchers have identified 10 additional superchrons in the Proterozoic Eon, revealing a similar rate of geodynamo-driven reversals for most of the past two billion years. This discovery challenges existing models of core evolution and the geodynamo process.
Heliophysics CubeSat to launch on NASA's SLS
The Heliophysics CubeSat will measure incoming radiation that can affect Earth's radio communications, satellite electronics, and power grids. The satellite will provide unprecedented insight into the sun's impact on our planet.
Moon was produced by a head-on collision between Earth and a forming planet
Researchers use oxygen isotope analysis to confirm Earth and moon had similar chemical composition after collision, suggesting a head-on impact. The study also suggests the early Earth may have lost water due to subsequent asteroid collisions.
Kasting receives NAS Early Earth & Life Sciences Award
James F. Kasting receives the award for his work on planetary atmospheres and habitability, providing insights into the origin of life on early Earth and the search for life on other planets
Human impact has created a 'plastic planet,' research shows
The study suggests that humans have entered an 'Age of Plastic,' where plastics are forming fossils and persisting in the Earth's geology. Plastics can travel thousands of miles, get caught up in oceanic garbage patches, and be buried by increasing layers of plastic waste by mid-century.
The Anthropocene: Hard evidence for a human-driven Earth
A recent paper confirms the existence of the Anthropocene, a new geological epoch driven by human activities such as material dispersal and greenhouse gas emissions. The study, co-authored by 24 geoscientists, identifies distinct signals in sediments and ice that justify recognition of this new time unit.
Globular clusters could host interstellar civilizations
Researchers argue that globular clusters can host planets with conditions suitable for life, despite initial concerns. The environment of these dense star clusters may allow for stable planetary systems to form and survive for billions of years.
UTSA-led team finds black hole affecting galactic climate
A UTSA-led team detected a powerful galactic blast from a nearby supermassive black hole using NASA's Chandra X-ray Observatory. The research found that the black hole's outbursts have impacted the surrounding galaxy, triggering the formation of new stars and affecting the climate.
Astronomers find new way to measure the pull of gravity at the surface of distant stars
Researchers have developed a new technique to accurately measure the surface gravity of distant stars, allowing for more precise analysis of exoplanet sizes and habitability. This breakthrough will play a crucial role in the study of planets beyond our Solar System.
Roger D. Borcherdt wins the 2016 Bruce A. Bolt Medal
Roger D. Borcherdt receives the 2016 Bruce A. Bolt Medal for his exceptional contributions to seismology and engineering seismology, including pioneering site-response studies and theoretical solutions for wave propagation problems.
'Forbidden' substances on super-Earths
Researchers have discovered 'forbidden' compounds in super-Earths that could increase heat transfer rates and strengthen magnetic fields. These compounds, formed by silicon, oxygen, and magnesium at high pressures, have different properties than normal compounds, making them important for generating powerful magnetic fields.
NASA's MMS delivers promising initial results
The Magnetospheric Multiscale (MMS) mission is providing unprecedented insights into magnetic reconnection, a process that drives giant magnetic bursts and oscillations in Earth's magnetic fields. Scientists are using MMS' high-resolution measurements to better understand the role of magnetic reconnection in shaping the space environme...
International instrument delivered for NASA's 2016 asteroid sample return mission
The OSIRIS-REx Laser Altimeter (OLA), contributed by the Canadian Space Agency, will create 3-D maps of asteroid Bennu to select a sample collection site. The OLA is an advanced LIDAR system scanning the entire surface of the asteroid for fundamental data on its shape and topography.
USF geologists focus on mineral for clues to beginning of biological life on earth
Researchers found schreibersite, an iron-nickel phosphide mineral, could provide phosphate essential for prebiotic molecules. The mineral's phosphorylation reaction with early Earth water likely played a role in the emergence of metabolic molecules.
Nearby star hosts closest alien planet in the 'habitable zone'
Astronomers at the University of New South Wales have discovered three potentially habitable planets around a nearby red dwarf star called Wolf 1061. The middle planet, Wolf 1061c, is located within the Goldilocks zone and may be able to support liquid water and life.
The carbon mineral challenge: A worldwide hunt for new carbon minerals
A global challenge is launched to discover new carbon-bearing minerals, with an estimated 145 yet-to-be-described minerals waiting discovery. Researchers believe most of these minerals will be hydrous carbonates, potentially making them challenging for collectors to find.
NASA studies high clouds, Saharan dust from EPIC view
EPIC captures daily views of Earth's clouds, land surfaces, and aerosols, yielding insights into climate change. The satellite's data also reveals the progression of Sahara dust across the Atlantic Ocean in real-time.
The days are getting longer
Researchers at the University of Alberta investigated past changes in Earth's core rotation to understand global sea-level rise. They found a correlation between the slowing down of Earth's rotation and the increase in sea levels over the past century.
NASA Goddard lab chief wins Maryland Chemist Award
Jason Dworkin, chief of NASA's Astrochemistry Laboratory, has made significant contributions to our understanding of the early solar system through his research on organic compounds in meteorites, comets, and asteroids. His work has identified amino acids and nucleobases that are precursors to essential biological molecules, shedding l...
Scientists explain origin of heavy elements in the Universe
A team from The Hebrew University of Jerusalem suggests that rare mergers of binary neutron stars are the origin of naturally occurring radioactive plutonium-244. This theory resolves the Galactic radioactive plutonium puzzle by explaining why only a small amount of plutonium has reached Earth in recent 100 million years.
The geography of Antarctica's underside
Researchers deployed seismometers to create maps of seismic velocities beneath the West Antarctic Rift System, revealing a hot zone beneath the Bentley Subglacial Trench. This discovery suggests that the rift system was active recently and may have implications for the future of the giant ice sheet in Antarctica.
Laser scanning shows rates, patterns of surface deformation from the South Napa earthquake and other recently released Geosphere articles
Researchers used 3D laser scanning to measure surface deformation after the 2014 South Napa earthquake, revealing complex deformation patterns that challenge traditional notions of topography formation. The study also found evidence of 'afterslip' effects that can occur hours to years after an earthquake.
Astronomers closer to explaining mysterious radio pulses from outer space
Researchers identified a highly magnetized, gas-filled region of space as the source of a Fast Radio Burst (FRB), significantly narrowing down its environment and type of event. The discovery provides crucial constraints on understanding these mysterious events.
Factoring for cosmic radiation could help set a more accurate 'molecular clock'
Researchers propose astrophysical explanation for discrepancies between molecular clock and fossil record, suggesting increased cosmic radiation accelerated mutation rates. The hypothesis predicts that organisms in deeper ocean layers will show less disparity between the two methods.
NASA's Webb Space Telescope receives first mirror installation
The James Webb Space Telescope has received its first mirror installation, with 18 primary mirror segments scheduled to be installed by early next year. The mirrors are made of ultra-lightweight beryllium and must remain precisely aligned in space for successful science investigations.
Volcanic rocks hold clues to Earth's interior
Researchers at Arizona State University propose a model of mantle dynamics involving plumes that transport chemically distinct material to the surface, explaining variability in ocean island basalts. This study provides insights into Earth's interior composition and evolution, as well as potential links to habitable planet formation.