Study: Dinosaur-Killing Mass Extinction Triggered Rapid Evolution of Bird Genomes

About 66 million years ago, at the end of the Cretaceous period, a 10-km-wide asteroid crashed into Earth near the site of the town of Chicxulub in what is now Mexico. The impact eradicated roughly 75% of the animal and plant species on Earth, including whole groups like non-avian dinosaurs and ammonites. New research has identified important changes in birds’ genomes sparked by this end-Cretaceous mass extinction, ultimately contributing to the incredible diversity of living birds.

This painting depicts an asteroid slamming into tropical, shallow seas of the sulfur-rich Yucatan Peninsula in what is today southeast Mexico. The aftermath of this immense asteroid collision, which occurred approximately 65 million years ago, is believed to have caused the extinction of the dinosaurs and many other species on Earth. Shown in this painting are pterodactyls, flying reptiles with wingspans of up to 50 feet, gliding above low tropical clouds.

Image credit: Donald E. Davis / NASA.

“By studying the DNA of living birds, we can try to detect patterns of genetic sequences that changed just after one of the most important events in Earth’s history,” said University of Michigan’s Dr. Jake Berv.

“The signature of those events seems to have imprinted into the genomes of the survivors in a way that we can detect tens of millions of years later.”

A living organism’s genome comprises four nucleotide molecules, referred to by the letters A, T, G and C. The order of these nucleotides in a genome defines the blueprint of life.

The DNA code can sometimes evolve in a way that shifts the overall composition of DNA nucleotides across the whole genome.

These compositional changes are crucial in determining what kind of genetic variation is possible, contributing to an organism’s evolutionary potential, or its ability to evolve.

Dr. Berv and colleagues found that the mass extinction event sparked shifts in nucleotide composition.

They also found that these shifts seem to be connected to the way birds develop as babies, their adult size and their metabolism.

For example, within approximately 3 million to 5 million years of the end-Cretaceous mass extinction, surviving bird lineages tended to develop smaller body sizes.

They also changed how they developed as hatchlings, with more species becoming ‘altricial.’

“This means they are still very embryonic when they hatch, need their parents to feed them, and can take weeks to fledge,” Dr. Berv said.

“Birds that hatch ready to fend for themselves, like chickens and turkeys, are called ‘precocial’.”

“We found that adult body size and patterns of pre-hatching development are two important features of bird biology we can link to the genetic changes we’re detecting.”

“One of the most significant challenges in evolutionary biology and ornithology is teasing out the relationships between major bird groups — it’s difficult to determine the structure of the tree of life for living birds.”

Over the past 15 years, researchers have been applying increasingly large genomic data sets to try to solve the problem.

Previously, they used genomic data to study the evolution of birds’ genomes using statistical models that make strong assumptions.

These traditional models allow researchers to reconstruct the history of genetic changes, but they typically assume that the composition of DNA, its proportion of A, T, G and C nucleotides, does not change across evolutionary history.

The study authors developed a software tool to more closely track DNA composition over time and across different branches of the tree of life.

With this tool, they were able to relax the assumption that the composition of DNA remains constant.

“This allowed the model of DNA evolution to vary across the evolutionary tree and identify places where there was likely a shift in DNA composition,” said University of Michigan’s Professor Stephen Smith.

“For this new research, these shifts were concentrated in time, within about 5 million years of the end-Cretaceous mass extinction,” Dr. Berv added.

This approach also allowed the team to estimate which bird traits were most closely associated with these shifts in DNA composition.

“This is an important type of genetic change that we think we can link to the mass extinction event,” Dr. Berv said.

“As far as we know, changes in DNA composition have not been previously associated with the end-Cretaceous mass extinction in such a clear way.”

“We know that mass extinction events can dramatically affect biodiversity, ecology and organismal form,” said University of Cambridge’s Professor Daniel Field.

“Our study emphasizes that these extinction events can actually influence organismal biology even more profoundly — by altering important aspects of how genomes evolve.”

“This work furthers our understanding of the dramatic biological impacts of mass extinction events and highlights that the mass extinction that wiped out the giant dinosaurs was one of the most biologically impactful events in the entire history of our planet.”

By relaxing the typical assumptions used in evolutionary biology, the researchers are building more nuanced insight into the sequence of events that occurred in the early history of birds.

“We have typically not looked at the change in DNA composition and model across the tree of life as a change that something interesting has happened at a particular point of time and place,” Professor Smith said.

“This study illustrates that we have probably been missing something.”

• The study was published in the journal Science Advances.
• Jacob S. Berv et al. 2024. Genome and life-history evolution link bird diversification to the end-Cretaceous mass extinction. Science Advances 10 (31); doi: 10.1126/sciadv.adp0114
• This article is a version of a press-release provided by the University of Michigan.

LINK VIDEOS

• https://youtu.be/sBCwKeXnA0A

• https://youtu.be/yqINf3buJNo

• https://youtu.be/7TQqLUUmt7A

{ https://www.sci.news/ }

03-08-2024 om 22:46 geschreven door peter  

VIDEO! AI Focuses 8 Foot Alien In Taitung, Taiwan Seen By Police Officer! UFO UAP Sighting News.

In a recent intriguing incident, a police officer in Taitung, Taiwan, reported capturing a photo of what he claimed was an alien. The photo was taken in the mountainous region of Taitung, a location requiring a government permit to access due to its remote and protected status. The officer was convinced that the blurry figure in the image was evidence of extraterrestrial life.

To verify this claim, I employed advanced AI technology designed for image enhancement and clarification. The AI tool focused on the blurry section of the photo, analyzing the shapes and patterns to bring out finer details. After the AI processing, the result was surprising: the supposed alien figure was revealed to be a tilted tree in the distance. The AI had clarified the image to show the distinctive bark texture and foliage, debunking the initial claim of an extraterrestrial encounter.

This incident highlights the power of AI in distinguishing between genuine anomalies and misinterpreted natural occurrences, providing a more rational explanation to sightings that often fuel public fascination with aliens.

Five Other Notable Alien Sightings

1. Roswell Incident (1947): Perhaps the most famous UFO incident, where an alleged flying saucer crashed in Roswell, New Mexico, sparking widespread conspiracy theories and interest in alien life.

2. Rendlesham Forest Incident (1980): A series of reported sightings of unexplained lights near RAF bases in Suffolk, England, often referred to as "Britain's Roswell."

3. Phoenix Lights (1997): Thousands of people reported seeing a V-shaped formation of lights over Phoenix, Arizona, which remains unexplained despite official explanations attributing it to military flares.

4. Belgian UFO Wave (1989-1990): Numerous sightings of large, silent, low-flying black triangles over Belgium, witnessed by civilians and tracked by radar.

5. Stephenville Lights (2008): Residents of Stephenville, Texas, observed a series of bright lights moving erratically in the sky, with some witnesses claiming to see a massive craft.

These incidents continue to capture public imagination, driving ongoing debates and investigations into the possibility of extraterrestrial life.

{ https://www.ufosightingsdaily.com/ }

03-08-2024 om 21:32 geschreven door peter  

De eerste complexe levensvorm op aarde verscheen mogelijk veel eerder dan verwacht: de studie

door Janine

Abderrazzak El Albani/ Université de Poitiers

Een nieuwe studie heeft de opvattingen over de ontwikkeling van de eerste vormen van complex leven omvergeworpen: dit was veel eerder dan werd gedacht.

Het verschijnen van de eerste vormen van leven op aarde

Wat wordt bedoeld met complexe levensvormen? Onder deze wezens zijn er ook wezens die we tot nu toe als de eenvoudigste beschouwen. Deze laatste zijn in feite heel ingewikkeld en ondanks enorme ontwikkelingen op wetenschappelijk gebied is het nog steeds onmogelijk om ze helemaal opnieuw in het laboratorium te creëren. We hebben het over de allereerste levensvormen waarvan tot nu toe werd aangenomen dat ze lang na de vorming van de planeet zelf op aarde verschenen.

In werkelijkheid lijkt dit helemaal niet het geval te zijn: de eerste levende wezens zagen het licht toen onze aardbol zich nog in een vroeg stadium bevond, 300 miljoen jaar na zijn ontstaan 4,5 miljard jaar geleden. Dit betekent dat de aarde in zo'n korte tijd omstandigheden heeft ontwikkeld die haar gastvrij maakten voor leven. Hoewel er in de allereerste dagen van haar ontstaan geen omstandigheden op onze planeet waren die geschikt waren voor de ontwikkeling van leven, dan veranderde dat in geologische termen relatief snel.

Complexe levensvormen: ze kunnen dateren van 2,1 miljard jaar geleden

Abderrazzak El Albani

Dankzij de studie van het genoom van moderne organismen weten we nu dat de eerste vorm van leven op aarde 4,2 miljard jaar geleden ontstond. Het gaat om LUCA, Last Universal Common Ancestor, de voorouder die alle levende wezens op aarde gemeen hebben.

Nu heeft nieuw onderzoek uitgewezen dat de eerste complexe levensvormen mogelijk 1,5 miljard eerder in onze oceanen zijn ontstaan ​​dan eerder werd aangenomen. Wetenschappers dachten namelijk dat de vroegste dierlijke levensvormen dateerden van 635 miljoen jaar geleden en evolueerden tot wezens met zachte lichamen in het tijdperk Ediacarium, naar schatting tussen 635 en 541 miljoen jaar geleden, als gevolg van het stijgende fosforgehalte in de zeeën. De nog niet gepubliceerde studie suggereert echter dat de vroegste vorm van complex leven veel ouder is en rond 2,1 miljard jaar geleden in het tijdscontinuüm ligt: de auteurs van de ontdekking, waaronder wetenschappers van de Cardiff University in het Verenigd Koninkrijk, vermoeden de aanwezigheid van primordiale gefossiliseerde levensvormen in sedimentafzettingen in Franceville, Gabon, Centraal-Afrika.

Geïsoleerd oceaanreservaat: was het de thuisbasis van complex leven?

Volgens het team zouden deze archaïsche levensvormen zijn uitgestorven voordat ze zich in de rest van de wereld vermenigvuldigden en ontwikkelden. De afzettingen zijn ongeveer 2,5 km dik en daarin zouden deze mysterieuze, oeroude gefossiliseerde wezens verborgen liggen. De auteurs onderzochten deze primordiale rotsformaties op tekenen van mogelijk leven in het verleden, waaronder fosfor en zuurstof: de resultaten toonden aan dat een plotselinge en grote golf geladen met fosfor een geïsoleerd deel van de oceaanbodem bereikte, waardoor een omgeving ontstond die geschikt was voor het ontstaan van primitieve levensvormen.

De concentratie van fosfor en zuurstof in de rotsen van dit oceanische reservaat zou volgens wetenschappers veroorzaakt zijn door de botsing tussen continentale platen onder water en door de activiteit van vulkanen. Dit kan een soort zee in de zee hebben gegenereerd die ondiep is en rijk aan voedingsstoffen die nuttig zijn voor de vorming van complex leven, zoals “koloniale macrofossielen”. De isolatie van de rest van de oceaan heeft echter de toegang tot verdere voedingsstoffen verhinderd, waardoor de ontwikkeling van deze levende wezens en hun mondiale verspreiding worden geblokkeerd.

{ https://www.curioctopus.nl/ }

03-08-2024 om 21:20 geschreven door peter  

Lue Elizondo’s UFO Book Leak: Shocking Revelations and Uncovered Secrets

In a world where the mysteries of the universe continue to captivate the human imagination, Lue Elizondo’s upcoming book, “Imminent: Inside the Pentagon’s Hunt for UFOs,” has taken center stage. The recent leak of details from this highly anticipated book has sent ripples through the UFO community and beyond. With revelations about historic UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena) crashes, recovery of non-human bodies, and groundbreaking insights into the consciousness connection, Elizondo’s work promises to challenge our understanding of the universe.

• Pre-Order Lue Elizondo’s Shocking UFO Book here: Amazon link

Background on Lue Elizondo

Lue Elizondo, a former intelligence officer and director of the Advanced Aerospace Threat Identification Program (AATIP), has been at the forefront of UFO research within the Pentagon. His dedication to uncovering the truth about UAPs has earned him a reputation as a credible and influential figure in the field. His new book is expected to provide unprecedented insights into the government’s exploration of these mysterious phenomena.

Key Revelations from the Leak

1. Historic UAP Crashes and Non-Human Bodies

One of the most shocking aspects of the leak involves Elizondo’s claims about historic UAP crashes. According to Elizondo, credible sources, including those involved with AATIP, have confirmed multiple incidents where the United States recovered non-human bodies from UAP crash sites.

• Roswell and Beyond: While the Roswell incident of 1947 is the most famous, Elizondo’s book suggests that there have been other significant recoveries. For instance, a crash in Cadereyta, Mexico, in 1950 reportedly resulted in the recovery of a non-human body. Additionally, a 1989 incident in Kazakhstan involved the alleged retrieval of four non-human bodies from a large “Tic Tac” shaped craft.

These claims, if substantiated, could rewrite our understanding of human history and our place in the cosmos.

2. Technological Discoveries and Implants

Another intriguing revelation involves the discovery of implants in individuals who have encountered UAPs. Elizondo describes handling an implant removed from a U.S. military service member. The implant, resembling a microchip encased in a slimy, translucent tissue, appeared to possess its own metabolism.

• Implants and Advanced Technology: These implants may represent one of the most direct pieces of evidence of non-human technology. The book discusses how such discoveries challenge our scientific understanding and suggest a level of sophistication beyond current human capabilities.

3. UAPs as a Potential Threat

Elizondo emphasizes the potential threat posed by UAPs. Drawing on evidence from credible witnesses, videos, and performance data verified by AATIP, he argues that these phenomena could pose a real danger.

• Electromagnetic Vulnerability: Elizondo suggests that UAPs might be susceptible to electromagnetic pulses (EMPs), raising questions about how nations might respond to potential threats. However, he warns that any action against these objects could be perceived as an act of war by the entities controlling them.

Consciousness and UAPs: A Deeper Connection?

One of the most thought-provoking aspects of Elizondo’s book is the exploration of consciousness and its connection to UAPs. The book delves into the possibility that consciousness might be a fundamental force of the universe, intricately linked to these phenomena.

• Consciousness as a Universal Force: Elizondo posits that understanding UAPs may require a deeper comprehension of human consciousness. This perspective suggests that our consciousness might be part of a greater collective, interacting with UAPs on a subconscious level.
  

• Implications for Human Understanding: The idea that UAPs could be engaging with humans through consciousness opens new avenues for exploration. It raises questions about the nature of reality and our understanding of the universe.

Challenges Faced by the UFO Community

The leak of Elizondo’s book highlights broader challenges within the UFO community. Unauthorized leaks can significantly impact the reception and sales of such works, affecting authors and filmmakers dedicated to uncovering the truth.

• Industry Struggles: Filmmakers like Ron James and James Fox have faced difficulties with production companies, reflecting broader struggles in promoting UFO-related content. These challenges underscore the need for support and collaboration within the community.

Conclusion: A Call to Explore the Unknown

Lue Elizondo’s “Imminent” is set to be a landmark contribution to the field of UFO research. The leaked details offer a tantalizing glimpse into the mysteries and possibilities that lie ahead. As we approach the book’s official release, it’s clear that Elizondo’s work will continue to spark debate and inspire exploration into the unknown.

For those intrigued by the mysteries of the universe and the potential for discovering extraterrestrial life, Elizondo’s revelations serve as a call to delve deeper into the unexplained. As we stand on the brink of new discoveries, “Imminent” invites us to question our assumptions and embrace the pursuit of knowledge in the quest to understand the cosmos.

VIDEO:

• Lehto – Lue Elizondo’s Shocking UFO Book Leak! What You Need to Know!

• https://youtu.be/_XakLhaszGk

As we anticipate the release of Elizondo’s book, it’s crucial to support efforts to bring these revelations to light. Purchasing the book not only aids in continuing this important work but also contributes to the broader conversation about humanity’s place in the universe.

{ https://www.latest-ufo-sightings.net/ }

03-08-2024 om 20:54 geschreven door peter  

New 'quasi-moon' discovered near Earth has been traveling alongside our planet since 100 BC

Scientists recently discovered an asteroid that tags along with Earth during its yearly journey around the sun. 

Dubbed 2023 FW13, the space rock is considered a "quasi-moon" or "quasi-satellite," meaning it orbits the sun in a similar time frame as Earth does, but is only slightly influenced by our planet’s gravitational pull. It is estimated to be 50 feet (15 meters) in diameter — roughly equivalent to three large SUVs parked bumper to bumper. During its orbit of the sun, 2023 FW13 also circles Earth, coming within 9 million miles (14 million kilometers) of our planet. For comparison, the moon has a diameter of 2,159 miles (3,474 km) and comes within 226,000 miles (364,000 km) of Earth at the closest point of its orbit, according to NASA. 

2023 FW13 was first observed in March by the Pan-STARRS observatory, which is located atop the volcanic mountain Haleakalā in Hawaii. The asteroid's existence was then confirmed by the Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope in Hawaii and two observatories in Arizona before being officially listed on April 1 by the Minor Planet Center at the International Astronomical Union, a network of scientists responsible for designating new planets, moons and other objects in the solar system.

Some estimates suggest that 2023 FW13 has been Earth's cosmic neighbor since at least 100 B.C. and that the space rock will continue to follow this orbital path until around A.D. 3700, Adrien Coffinet, an astronomer and journalist who first categorized the asteroid as a quasi-moon after modeling its orbit, told Sky & Telescope.

"It seems to be the longest quasi-satellite of Earth known to date," Coffinet said.

Astronomers have discovered a quasi-moon that has orbited around the Sun alongside Earth since 100 BC. 

Naeblys/Getty Images/iStockphoto

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Following 2023 FW13's initial discovery in March, space observers dug into the data and found observations of the asteroid dating all the way back to 2012, according to Live Science's sister site Space.com. 

Despite hovering relatively close to Earth, this quasi-satellite likely isn't on a collision course with our planet. 

"The good news is, such an orbit doesn't result in an impacting trajectory 'out of the blue,'" Alan Harris, an astronomer at the Space Science Institute, told Sky & Telescope. 

This is not Earth's only quasi-companion; a different quasi-satellite known as Kamo'oalewa was discovered in 2016. The rock sticks similarly close to our planet during its orbit around the sun, and a 2021 study suggested that this asteroid could actually be a fragment of Earth's moon. 

• https://youtu.be/WcyD59fheb4

{ https://www.livescience.com/ }

02-08-2024 om 23:49 geschreven door peter  

Following tests at Vandenberg, the LOFTID is scheduled to be included as a secondary payload aboard NOAA’s Joint Polar Satellite System-2 (JPSS-2) satellite. The space agency hopes that current testing of the device will help gauge its capabilities for future missions, which may include the delivery of everything from future robotic explorers that will follow in the tread marks left by Perseverance to spacecraft carrying human crews.

“LOFTID is dedicated to the memory of Bernard Kutter, manager of advanced programs at ULA, who passed away in August 2020 and was an advocate for technologies like LOFTID that can lower the cost of space access,” the space agency said in a statement.

Over the last several weeks, the LOFTID underwent a complete systems test, along with several environmental tests, electromagnetic compatibility tests, and other checkups, along with match-mate testing between NASA and ULA components to help ensure that the systems can be successfully integrated prior to launch.

Following testing, the heat shield (also called an aeroshell) was fully inflated under conditions that replicated its orbital deployment environment, after which it underwent laser-assisted measurements before being repackaged for launch.

The LOFTID will be carried to space on board a United Launch Alliance (ULA) Atlas V rocket, after which its inflation mechanism will be deployed. Then, traveling at speeds nearing 5 miles per second, the inflatable heat shield will be tested on whether it can withstand the tremendous pressures of re-entry.

The LOFTID, a project of NASA’s Space Technology Mission Directorate, falls under its Technology Demonstration Missions program. In partnership with United Launch Alliance (ULA), the current LOFTID launch is being overseen out of Langley Research Center in Hampton, Virginia.

• Micah Hanks is Editor-in-Chief and Co-Founder of The Debrief. Follow his work at micahhanks.com and on Twitter: @MicahHanks. 

{ https://thedebrief.org/category/uap/ }

02-08-2024 om 23:35 geschreven door peter  

US Congressman Says Revealing UFO Technology Is a Threat to Energy Sector: It Can Disrupt World Economy

A thought-provoking interview has recently been conducted between Project Unity host Jay Anderson and the U.S. Congressman Andy Ogles. The discussion focused on the implications of complete UAP (Unidentified Aerial Phenomena) disclosure. Anderson asked serious questions to Rep. Ogles about UFOs, revealing that the release of extraterrestrial technology could potentially disrupt the world economy and energy sector.

Rep. Andy Ogles spoke about the difficulty in gathering information due to the compartmentalization of special access projects, emphasizing the need for a methodical and persistent approach to uncover the truth. In the interview, he expressed his concern about UAPs operating in both military and commercial airspace, raising questions about the potential national security threats. He said, “I’m not going to assume I know what it may or may not be. What I do know is there’s a national security issue here.”

He considers various possibilities, including the involvement of experimental aircraft, joint ventures, or foreign adversaries. He emphasizes the importance of avoiding predetermined conclusions and encourages an open-minded investigation to determine the true nature of the UAP phenomenon.

When asked about his personal understanding of UAPs, Rep. Ogles talks about the hope that it might be advanced technology possessed by the United States. He says, “My hope would be… some new technology that we possess… puts us that next generation above our adversaries.” However, he acknowledges the mysterious aspects of UAPs, saying they seem to “defy physics.”

Rep. Ogles then considers the energy implications of the advanced propulsion technology displayed by UAPs. He wonders about the amount of energy needed for such rapid movements and how it could impact the energy sector.

He says, “That being said, these UAPs seem to defy physics. They seem to have some sort of propulsion technology that’s unknown to man as we understand it. So, what does that do to the energy sector? If there’s a new way of thinking about the amount of energy it takes to take a craft that’s hovering and suddenly it’s going Mach one in a matter of seconds – the human body can’t sustain that as we understand it, right? So that craft would have to have next-level technology to protect tissue, if you will, or it’s an unmanned type of craft. Again, there are just a lot of questions that have to be probed. But, if there is this propulsion technology out there and this energy capability out there, not only are we in a renaissance when it comes to aircraft, but we’re in a renaissance in terms of propulsion and energy production consumption. So, again, huge implications across the economic scale, both domestically and internationally.”

He mentions his inquiries in committee about the DOE (Department of Energy), suggesting it could be an ideal place to house top-secret technologies. He says, “If you’re going to house a top-secret Next Level technology, what better place to have it and house it than… nuclear facilities.”

“Everybody knows about Area 51. It’s a testing area… You’ve got this super top-secret, super secure facility that, again, would be ideal to have and to house some new technology, emerging technology that we want to fully master for ourselves and quite frankly control. Because again, as you look at that next generation of warfare, it’s not just tanks and planes. It’s drones. It’s unmanned aircraft. It’s economic. There’s a lot that’s about to happen as we go forward as a superpower and our competitive edge on the global stage.”

Later in the interview, Jay Anderson brings up Congressman Burchett’s positive impression of David Grusch’s testimony during classified briefings. Rep. Ogles says that credible sources have vouched for Grusch’s reliability. He suggests believing what Grusch said, thinking about it carefully, and not trying to say it is wrong without some good proof. Ogles says it is important to keep an open mind, focus on getting answers, and not to try finding faults without good reasons.

Rep. Ogles explains that it does not require unanimous congressional support but rather the speaker’s will to initiate action. He emphasizes the bipartisan interest in addressing the issue and expresses the need for a select committee to ensure transparency and accountability in the investigation. He, along with Congressman Burchett, acknowledges the likelihood of a multi-decade cover-up or compartmentalization due to the secretive nature of special access programs (SAPs) and classified information related to national security.

When asked about evidence suggesting reverse engineering or more exotic propositions, Rep. Ogles mentions the classification of such information and the need for careful consideration. He discusses questions about the origin of technology, whether it is our own creation or recovered from elsewhere, and the potential for reverse engineering.

Read also:

• Ex-US Marine Saw Massive UFO Being Loaded With Weapons By Secret Military In Indonesia Jungle
• US Congressmen Claim Bible Has ‘Pretty Clear’ Evidence of UFOs: Vatican Knows Aliens Are Here

Stephen Bassett, the only registered lobbyist of Washington and founder of Paradigm Research Group, shares the same UFO disclosure concerns that will pose serious implications for the world’s economy.

The PRG researchers claim they have known the reasons why the US authorities were hiding information about UFOs. According to them, disclosing UFO data would lead to the collapse of the entire world economy. Bassett added that all so-called “flying saucers” do not use oil, gasoline, gas, or coal. “They have a different energy system. Without a doubt, a much more complex and deep system based on anti-gravity,” he said.

“Some programs have been removed from the jurisdiction of the White House and Congress and are working somewhere very, very deep, in a ‘hidden mode,'” the researcher emphasized. “I assure you, when the head of state finally officially admits this fact and presents evidence, people will start to worry and want to know more.” But even if the economy stops developing in the current way, it will have new opportunities, Bassett believes.

During an interview with uInterview, he said that UFOs are not unidentified flying objects, as the acronym suggests, but rather alternative energy and propulsion devices. The technology behind UFOs was heavily studied by a team headed by Dr. Vannevar Bush in the 1940s, 1950s, and 1960s, and by 1954, they had developed what is known as “gravity control” and “zero-point energy.”

[Editor’s note] In January 2015, former NASA astronaut Edgar Mitchell sent an email to Podesta, asking him to have an urgent meeting to discuss Disclosure and Zero Point Energy (ZPE). He was concerned about the peace in space. Mitchell wrote: “My Catholic colleague Terri Mansfield will be there too, to bring us up to date on the Vatican’s awareness of ETI. Another colleague is working on a new Space Treaty, citing involvement with Russia and China. However, with Russia’s extreme interference in Ukraine, I believe we must pursue another route for peace in space and ZPE on Earth.” (Click here to read the full article)

However, Dr. Greer stated that the secrecy surrounding this technology went off the rails and became deeply entrenched in compartmented intelligence operations, even causing President Eisenhower to become frustrated with being denied information on the projects.

“The problem became to be, and this is what President Eisenhower warned us about, the secrecy became so enmeshed and compartmented in intelligence operations, that even he as president lost control over it,” Dr. Greer said.

He further stated: “One of our military witnesses, he was a young man working at the White House – which I’m looking at from my place here in Washington, he told us, Mr. Lubkin, who is an attorney, said that Eisenhower was very frustrated that he was being denied information on the projects controlling this issue. So the secrecy went off the rails into these unacknowledged special access projects.”

The disclosure of UFOs would mean the end of oil, gas, coal, and public utilities, as the technology would completely transform the world. Those with trillions of dollars invested in these industries would not be enthused about this possibility. This is the reason for the secrecy, and it has been maintained for 70 years, according to Dr. Greer.

{ https://www.howandwhys.com/ }

02-08-2024 om 23:24 geschreven door peter  

The discovery raises several intriguing questions about Mars and its history, as well as what environmental factors could have led to the formation of the crystals.

A Chance Discovery

Since October 2023, Curiosity has been scouring the Gediz Vallis channel on Mount Sharp, an area where scientists believe ancient lava flows occurred in the planet’s early history. The Martian rover has concentrated its explorations in the area, given the region’s promising potential for having once been home to microbial life or even the possibility that it may still be a present-day refuge for such simple organisms.

The discovery of the colorful mineral was made by chance, as Curiosity cracked open a rock while driving over it. To the Curiosity team’s surprise, the yellow interior of the stone revealed what is likely to be pure sulfur, whereas the sulfates that are normally encountered in the area are salts comprised of combinations of sulfur and other minerals.

Unveiling Mount Sharp’s Mysteries

Since 2014, NASA’s Curiosity rover has made its ascent of Mount Sharp, where its explorations of the Gediz Vallis channel have revealed a portion of the landscape once shaped by ancient water flows on the planet. Curiosity’s present mission is to investigate whether this ancient channel and its surrounding terrain could have supported microbial life, particularly at a time when water was more abundant on Mars.

“This was not a quiet period on Mars,” according to Becky Williams, a scientist at the Planetary Science Institute and deputy principal investigator of Curiosity’s Mast Camera. “There was an exciting amount of activity here.

“We’re looking at multiple flows down the channel, including energetic floods and boulder-rich flows,” Williams said.

Going forward, the Curiosity team hopes to conduct drilling on larger rocks in the area to determine if they may also contain sulfur crystals. Presently, the relationship between elemental sulfur and other sulfur-based minerals in the area remains unclear to scientists studying the Martian environment.

“Finding a field of stones made of pure sulfur is like finding an oasis in the desert,” said Ashwin Vasavada, Curiosity’s project scientist at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory.

“It shouldn’t be there, so now we have to explain it,” Vasavada said in a statement.

“Discovering strange and unexpected things is what makes planetary exploration so exciting.”

• Micah Hanks is the Editor-in-Chief and Co-Founder of The Debrief. He can be reached by email at micah@thedebrief.org. Follow his work at micahhanks.com and on X: @MicahHanks.

{ https://thedebrief.org/category/space/ }

02-08-2024 om 23:11 geschreven door peter  

With the help of advanced capabilities that include the use of undersea robots, scientists are now assembling a clearer picture than ever before of the dynamics of melt occurring at the ice base of West Antarctica’s Dotson Ice Shelf.

Visualization of the sand dune shaped ice structures found on the underside of the Dotson Ice Shelf. 

(Image credit: Filip Stedt / University of Gothenburg)

Basal Melt Processes and Ice Shelf Stability

Melt rates beneath Antarctic ice shelves often show remarkable variability. One factor that influences this process, one that scientists have focused on in recent years, is how warmer salt water interacts with the ice along the base of the continent’s ice sheets.

One significant mechanism that contributes to this mixing of warm water into the ice-ocean boundary is turbulence resulting from shear-driven mixing. Another is vertical convection, which includes a process known as double-diffusive convection, although these generally produce lower melt rates. However, when combined, these processes have now been revealed to produce uniquely shaped features on the base of the ice, which include the formation of what are sometimes very large basal channels and terraces.

Due to varying oceanic conditions, ice can sometimes melt at different rates even along the same ice shelf. This appears to be caused by factors that include not only ocean temperature but also the speed of ocean water’s movement, both of which contribute to diverse formations of natural features along the base of Antarctica’s ice.

According to new findings detailed in a study published in Science Advances, researchers have successfully mapped these changes with the help of an autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV), revealing remarkable and never-before-seen details about the processes that are driving accelerated melt along the continent’s ice shelves.

Structures mapped by an undersea robot named Ran on the underside of the Dotson Ice Shelf in Antarctica. The streaks, etched by currents, are up to 60 feet deep and miles long.

Credit...Filip Sted/University of Gothenburg

Overall, the research team found that the basal topography of the Dotson Ice Shelf varies significantly between its eastern and western portions. While the ice is thicker and appears to be melting more slowly to the east, on the opposite end, the opposite is the case, with noticeably thinner ice indicating higher melt rates.

In their study, the research team links these variances in ice melt rates to the presence of what is called modified Circumpolar Deep Water (mCDW), which refers to Pacific and Indian Ocean water mixing with other nearby water masses and interacting with the ice base. Faster-moving currents in the western region revealed smooth features on the base of the ice, accompanied by higher melt rates.

In contrast, the central and eastern regions of the ice sheet bore evidence of terraced features, which the research team attributes to warm water intrusions that occur closer to these areas.

Ultimately, the presence of remnant winter water and mCDW mixtures was revealed to produce streaks of temperature and meltwater that significantly influence overall melt rates. The team’s findings through AUV observations help to reveal how future missions may be able to reveal further details about the Antarctic ice base and how shear-driven turbulence and the presence of warm water accelerate melting in the western outflow region.

“This new wealth of processes, all active under a single ice shelf, must be considered to accurately predict future Antarctic ice shelf melt,” the team writes in their recent study. Going forward, ongoing mapping and study of the ice shelf will be crucial in order to refine existing models, in addition to improving our understanding of ice-ocean interactions and their relationship to rising sea levels in the years ahead.

The team’s new study, “Swirls and scoops: Ice base melt revealed by multibeam imagery of an Antarctic ice shelf,” by Anna Wahlin, et al., appeared in Science Advances on July 31, 2024.

A visualization of an area in the east, where the water eroded several layers of ice. The structures are carved 20 meters deep into the ice, and they are several kilometers long.CreditCredit...

Filip Stedt/University of Gothenburg

A top level view, taken by the researchers from a helicopter survey, of a crack along the front of the Dotson Ice Shelf.

Credit...Clare Eayrs/Korea Polar Research Institute

• Micah Hanks is the Editor-in-Chief and Co-Founder of The Debrief. He can be reached by email at micah@thedebrief.org. Follow his work at micahhanks.com and on X: @MicahHanks.

{ https://thedebrief.org/category/science/ }

02-08-2024 om 22:55 geschreven door peter  

The Day After Tomorrow? A climate disaster could occur at ANY time in the next 6,000 years, scientists warn

• Researchers say it's almost impossible to predict timing of climate tipping points
• They warn catastrophe could strike at any time in the next 6,000 years

By Xantha Leatham Deputy Science Editor

It's the film that left us all wary of disastrous and abrupt climate change.

But The Day After Tomorrow is probably not when we're going to experience apocalyptic weather events, according to a study.

Researchers argue that it's almost impossible to predict the timing of climate tipping points – and that catastrophe could strike at any time in the next 6,000 years.

A team from the Technical University of Munich and the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research provided the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) as an example.

This system circulates water from north to south and back in a long cycle within the Atlantic Ocean, carrying warm water from the tropics northwards.

It's the film that left us all wary of disastrous and abrupt climate change. But The Day After Tomorrow is probably not when we're going to experience apocalyptic weather events, according to a study 

Read More

• The real-life Day After Tomorrow? The Gulf Stream is weakening thanks to climate change 

Climate models suggest the AMOC will weaken over the 21st century due to increases in greenhouse gases and melting ice.

If the system collapsed the Northern Hemisphere would get colder, causing temperatures in Europe to drop dramatically.

Wet seasons in the Amazon rainforest would be reversed to dry seasons, and in coastal cities the sea would rise even faster.

Previous predictions from historical data suggest a collapse could occur between 2025 and 2095.

However, the new study revealed that uncertainties are so large that these predictions are not reliable.

Using different data sets and analysis, tipping times for the AMOC ranged from 2050 to 8065 – a 6,000-year window which isn't particularly useful, the researchers said.

Writing in the journal Science Advances they said the timing of other climate tipping points – such as the melting of the polar ice sheets or the collapse of tropical rainforests – are also too uncertain.

This is because there is too much still unknown about the underlying physical mechanisms of climate change, a lack of direct observations of the climate system, and incomplete history data, they explained.

Lead author Maya Ben-Yami said: 'Our research is both a wake-up call and a cautionary tale.

Climate models suggest the AMOC will weaken over the 21st century due to increases in greenhouse gases and melting ice. If the system collapsed the Northern Hemisphere would get colder, causing temperatures in Europe to drop dramatically 

'There are things we still can't predict, and we need to invest in better data and a more in-depth understanding of the systems in question.

'The stakes are too high to rely on shaky predictions.'

While the study shows we cannot reliably predict tipping events, the possibility of such events cannot be ruled out either, the team said.

They also stressed that statistical methods are still very good at telling us which parts of the climate have become more unstable.

'We still need to do everything we can to reduce our impact on the climate, first and foremost by cutting greenhouse gas emissions,' co-author Niklas Boers said.

'Even if we can't predict tipping times, the probability for key Earth system components to tip still increases with every tenth of a degree of warming.'

{ https://www.dailymail.co.uk/ }

02-08-2024 om 22:30 geschreven door peter  

Flakes of Natural Graphene Found in Lunar Soil Samples

 by Natali Anderson

In lunar regolith samples collected by China’s Chang’e-5 probe, planetary scientists have identified few-layer graphene formed together with complex minerals. The finding provides new insights into the origin of the Moon, supporting the hypothesis of a carbon-containing Moon.

Structural and compositional characterization of few-layer graphene in the Chang’e-5 lunar soil sample.

Image credit: Zhang et al., doi: 10.1093/nsr/nwae211.

“Graphene has revolutionized the research of condensed matter physics and materials science with its novel physical phenomena and extraordinary properties,” said Jilin University Professor Wei Zhang and colleagues.

“It plays an increasingly important role in extensive areas including planetary and space science.”

“It is estimated that around 1.9% of total interstellar carbon is in the form of graphene and protosolar graphene has been identified in carbonaceous chondrite meteorites.”

The researchers analyzed an olive-shaped sample of lunar soil, about 2.9 mm by 1.6 mm, collected by the Chang’e 5 mission in 2020.

Using a special spectrometer, they found an iron compound that is closely related to the formation of graphene in a carbon-rich section of the sample.

They then used advanced microscopic and mapping technologies to confirm that the carbon content in the sample comprised ‘flakes’ that have two to seven layers of graphene.

The scientists proposed that the few-layer graphene may have formed in volcanic activity in the early stages of the Moon’s existence, and been catalyzed by solar winds that can stir up lunar soil and iron-containing minerals that helped transform the carbon atoms’ structure.

Meteorite impacts, which create high-temperature and high-pressure environments, may also have led to the formation of graphene.

Scientists have discovered graphene on the Moon, in a lunar sample returned to Earth

Depositphotos

“This is the first study to verify the presence of natural few-layer graphene in lunar soil samples by examining its microstructure and composition,” the authors said.

“Our finding provides new insights into the origin of the Moon, supporting the hypothesis of a carbon-containing Moon.”

“Moreover, the exotic properties of graphene are highly structurally and environmentally dependent.”

“Further in-depth property investigation of natural graphene would provide more information on the geologic evolution of the Moon.”

“In turn, the mineral-catalysed formation of natural graphene sheds light on the development of low-cost scalable synthesis techniques for high-quality graphene.”

“Therefore, a new lunar exploration program may be promoted and some forthcoming breakthroughs can be expected.”

Chinese researchers have discovered a form of carbon in lunar soil samples collected in 2020 which could overturn the theory that the moon was formed by a cosmic collision between Earth and a smaller planet.

Photo: Reuters

• The findings were published in the journal National Science Review.
• Wei Zhang et al. Discovery of natural few-layer graphene on the Moon. National Science Review, published online June 17, 2024; doi: 10.1093/nsr/nwae211

{ https://www.sci.news/ }

02-08-2024 om 21:39 geschreven door peter  

Study: Lunar soil has the right stuff for “extraterrestrial photosynthesis”

It could pave a way for plants, fuel, and so much more.

by Doris Elín Urrutia

 

Rainer Fuhrmann / EyeEm/EyeEm/Getty Images

What’s new — The new study proposes “extraterrestrial photosynthesis,” a process by which humans in space can draw on just two simple, out-of-this-world ingredients — lunar soil and sunlight — to produce fuel and recycle carbon dioxide back into breathable oxygen on long-duration crewed missions to the Moon and Mars.

One major talking point for space agencies with their eyes to the skies: How do you power a trip far from Earth? The longest crewed lunar mission to date — NASA’s Apollo 15 flight in 1971 — lasted 12 days. They maintained themselves on the supplies they brought along, which had the heaviest payload in a lunar orbit at about 107,000 pounds.

Digging into the details — The study looks at ways to replenish water, oxygen, and fuel by using human byproducts, solar radiation, and local lunar soil called regolith. If this is successfully achievable, space agencies can save on cargo weight and vehicle space for crewed missions lasting weeks or even months.

Their preliminary findings inspired them to propose a model for how a self-sustaining Moon outpost could work.

The team analyzed the Chang’e-5, or “CE-5,” regolith samples to see what chemicals they contained and then investigated how well these components could catalyze carbon dioxide into oxygen. Exhaled breath might be used for potable water, or turned into hydrogen or methane for fuel.

Their experiments yielded some positive results. They saw bubbles of hydrogen and oxygen gas, for example. The paper reports that compounds in lunar regolith catalyzed a reaction during a photovoltaic-driven water electrolytic (PV-EC) test, which takes light and water and turns the liquid into those two gases. On the Moon, the water used here would come from lunar ice and human breath that would have previously gone through a dehydrating process. The astronauts would use the water for drinking.

What’s next — A lot more needs to be done before the research is Moon-ready. The researchers wrote that “the current catalytic performance from the CE-5 lunar sample cannot fully satisfy the requirement of extraterrestrial survival,” adding that their findings weren’t on par with the efficiency of existing catalyst systems on Earth.

They wrote that researching the compounds on the Moon more thoroughly could lead to more success.

{ https://www.inverse.com/ }

02-08-2024 om 21:36 geschreven door peter  

UFO over Spain? Tourist video captures strange object vanishing in seconds, UAP Sighting News.

The UFO was spotted in Ibiza, Spain.

© Provided by Hindustan Times

Date of sighting: July 31, 2024
Location of sighting: Ibiza, Spain

Watch the video here:

Introduction

Unidentified flying objects (UFOs) have intrigued humanity for decades, sparking countless debates and discussions about the existence of extraterrestrial life. These sightings often stir the imagination and provoke questions about what lies beyond our planet. The latest UFO sighting comes from the picturesque island of Ibiza, Spain, where a group of tourists captured a mysterious object in the sky that vanished within seconds. This astonishing video has now gone viral, captivating the attention of UFO enthusiasts and skeptics alike.

Green Light in Ibiza Skies: UFO or Illusion?

The Incident

The incident occurred on a clear day near the coastline of Ibiza, a popular tourist destination known for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife. A group of tourists, enjoying the scenic beauty near a cliff, inadvertently became witnesses to an unusual phenomenon. The video, recorded by one of the tourists, begins with a serene view of the landscape, capturing the natural beauty of the area.

Suddenly, the tranquility is interrupted by a girl running and pointing towards the sky, drawing the attention of the others. The camera follows her gesture, panning to reveal a bright, clear sky with the moon prominently visible. Beside the moon, an unidentified object appears, hovering momentarily before it disappears within seconds. The object’s sudden vanishing act leaves the onlookers stunned and puzzled.

Public Reaction

The video quickly gained traction on social media, with users from around the world sharing and commenting on the mysterious sighting. UFO enthusiasts were particularly excited, viewing the footage as potential evidence of extraterrestrial activity. Skeptics, on the other hand, offered various explanations ranging from natural atmospheric phenomena to sophisticated drones or even a hoax.

Regardless of one’s stance on the existence of UFOs, the video has undeniably sparked curiosity and debate. Many people are fascinated by the possibility of encountering something beyond the realm of known science, while others enjoy the mystery and intrigue that such sightings bring.

Expert Opinions

To gain a deeper understanding of the sighting, several experts were consulted. Dr. Laura Mendes, an astronomer and UFO researcher, analyzed the footage and provided her insights.

“The video is intriguing, and while it does show an unidentified object, it’s important to approach such sightings with a scientific mindset. There are many plausible explanations, including atmospheric distortions, reflections, or man-made objects. Without more data, it’s difficult to draw any definitive conclusions,” Dr. Mendes stated.

Aviation expert Carlos Rodriguez also weighed in on the sighting. “Given the proximity to a tourist area, it’s possible that what was seen could be a drone or another type of aircraft. However, the rapid disappearance is unusual and warrants further investigation,” he remarked.

Historical Context of UFO Sightings

UFO sightings have been reported for centuries, with varying levels of credibility and detail. From ancient texts describing celestial events to modern-day videos captured on smartphones, the phenomenon has persisted through time. One of the most famous incidents is the Roswell incident of 1947, where an alleged UFO crash in New Mexico spurred widespread speculation and conspiracy theories.

In recent years, the U.S. government has declassified numerous reports and videos of unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP), reigniting interest in the topic. These disclosures have lent some credibility to the notion that there are aerial objects that defy conventional explanations.

The Science Behind UFOs

While the idea of extraterrestrial visitors is captivating, scientists urge caution and critical thinking. Most UFO sightings can be attributed to natural phenomena or human activities. For instance, weather balloons, experimental aircraft, and atmospheric conditions can create optical illusions that mislead observers.

The scientific method relies on reproducibility and evidence. For a UFO sighting to be considered credible, it must be corroborated by multiple witnesses, radar data, and other forms of empirical evidence. In the case of the Ibiza sighting, while the video is compelling, more information would be needed to reach a conclusive explanation.

The Cultural Impact of UFO Sightings

UFO sightings often capture the public’s imagination and inspire various forms of media, including movies, books, and television shows. The idea of encountering alien life forms has become a staple of science fiction, reflecting humanity’s curiosity and desire to explore the unknown.

Movies like "Close Encounters of the Third Kind" and "Independence Day" have popularized the concept of UFOs and alien encounters, blending entertainment with speculative science. These cultural artifacts shape our perception of UFO sightings, often blurring the lines between fiction and reality.

Personal Accounts and Eyewitness Testimonies

Eyewitness testimonies play a crucial role in the study of UFO sightings. Personal accounts, like the one from Ibiza, provide valuable insights into how these phenomena are experienced and perceived by individuals. However, eyewitness accounts are also subject to cognitive biases and memory distortions, which can affect the accuracy of the observations.

In the Ibiza case, the tourists’ reactions and the immediate recording of the event add a layer of authenticity to the sighting. Their spontaneous responses and genuine astonishment suggest that they truly witnessed something unexpected.

The Role of Technology in UFO Sightings

Advancements in technology have significantly impacted the documentation and analysis of UFO sightings. High-resolution cameras, drones, and satellite imagery provide new tools for capturing and investigating aerial phenomena. These technologies can help distinguish between known objects and genuinely unidentified ones.

The Ibiza video, recorded on a smartphone, benefits from modern technology, offering clear footage that can be analyzed frame by frame. This level of detail was not available in earlier UFO sightings, making contemporary reports more credible and easier to scrutinize.

Government Involvement and Disclosure

Governments worldwide have historically shown interest in UFO sightings, often conducting secret investigations. The U.S. government’s recent release of UAP reports has highlighted the importance of transparency and scientific inquiry in addressing these phenomena.

In Spain, the government has not released any official statements regarding the Ibiza sighting. However, the increasing public interest in UFOs may prompt authorities to take a more proactive role in investigating and disclosing information about such incidents.

Conclusion

The UFO sighting in Ibiza has captured the imagination of people around the world, reigniting debates about the existence of extraterrestrial life and the nature of unidentified flying objects. While the video offers a tantalizing glimpse of something unexplained, it also underscores the need for rigorous scientific investigation and critical thinking.

As technology continues to advance and more sightings are documented, the mystery of UFOs may eventually be unraveled. Until then, incidents like the one in Ibiza will continue to intrigue and inspire, reminding us of the vastness and wonder of the universe.

Whether you are a skeptic or a believer, the sighting serves as a reminder that there is still much to explore and discover in our world and beyond. The quest for understanding UFOs is not just about finding answers but also about embracing the unknown and celebrating the human spirit of curiosity and exploration.

{ https://www.ufosightingsdaily.com/ }

02-08-2024 om 21:10 geschreven door peter  

Cryptoterrestrials: Are Aliens Already Living Among Us?

The concept of extraterrestrial life has long captivated the human imagination, often depicted as beings visiting Earth from distant galaxies. However, a compelling hypothesis suggests an alternative possibility: aliens might already be living among us, hiding in plain sight as “cryptoterrestrials.” This theory challenges traditional views of alien life and opens up intriguing discussions about the nature of extraterrestrial existence on Earth.

Understanding the Cryptoterrestrials Hypothesis

The cryptoterrestrials hypothesis proposes that extraterrestrials are not just visiting Earth but have been residing here, possibly for millennia. Unlike the typical depiction of aliens arriving in spaceships from far-off planets, cryptoterrestrials are thought to be integrated into human society, cleverly disguised to avoid detection. This idea shifts the focus from outer space exploration to a more introspective examination of life on Earth.

Four Categories of Cryptoterrestrials

The hypothesis can be divided into four distinct categories, each presenting a unique perspective on how aliens might be living among us:

1. Ancient Super Civilization: This theory suggests that an advanced civilization once thrived on Earth but was destroyed by a catastrophic event, such as a flood. The survivors of this civilization, possibly connected to legends like Atlantis, might still be present today, blending into human society.
2. Animal-Like Alien Civilization: Another possibility is that a complex civilization of aliens exists, resembling more animal-like beings rather than humanoid forms. These creatures might have developed unique ways to coexist with humans, perhaps living in remote or hidden locations.
3. Hidden Underground Aliens: Some theorists propose that aliens are hiding underground, utilizing Earth’s vast subterranean environments to remain concealed. This notion aligns with various myths and legends of underground worlds inhabited by mysterious beings.
4. Magical or Mythical Beings: The final category encompasses the idea that aliens could be perceived as mythical creatures, such as sprites, fairies, or goblins. These beings might possess abilities that enable them to exist undetected, contributing to folklore and mythical narratives.

Speculation and Skepticism

The cryptoterrestrials hypothesis, while intriguing, is primarily speculative. It seeks to expand the boundaries of thought and academic discussion, challenging established notions about extraterrestrial life. However, it’s important to note that proponents of this hypothesis acknowledge the lack of concrete evidence supporting the idea of aliens walking among us. The hypothesis is intended to provoke thought and encourage exploration of alternative possibilities rather than make definitive claims.

The Role of Media and Public Perception

Media plays a significant role in shaping public perception of the cryptoterrestrials hypothesis. Sensationalist headlines and exaggerated claims can often distort the original intentions of speculative discussions. While some media outlets may present the idea humorously or dismissively, it is crucial to approach such topics with an open mind and a critical eye.

A Historical Perspective

Throughout history, many revolutionary scientific ideas have initially been met with skepticism and ridicule. The notion of a round Earth, once considered absurd, eventually became a widely accepted fact. Similarly, the cryptoterrestrials hypothesis challenges us to reconsider our understanding of life on Earth and the potential for hidden civilizations.

Conspiracy Theories and Cultural Influences

The cryptoterrestrials hypothesis intersects with various conspiracy theories and cultural beliefs about non-human entities living among us. Concepts like “lizard people” or “skinwalkers” have circulated for decades, often rooted in folklore and mythology. The hypothesis serves as a framework to explore these longstanding ideas and examine their plausibility in a modern context.

The Possibility of Alien Integration

While the cryptoterrestrials hypothesis remains speculative, it raises thought-provoking questions about the potential motivations and methods of extraterrestrial life integrating into human society. If aliens are indeed living among us, what could they gain from such integration? Would their presence have an impact on human culture, technology, or evolution?

The Age of the Galaxy and Earth’s History

Considering the vast age of the galaxy, estimated to be around 13 billion years, and Earth’s 4.5 billion-year history, there is ample time for the development and evolution of intelligent life forms. If cryptoterrestrials do exist, they might have arrived on Earth long before humans, potentially influencing the course of human history in ways we have yet to understand.

VIDEO:

• Cryptoterrestrials: Aliens Walking Among Us? | Strange & Suspicious TV Show

• https://youtu.be/8O_BHyW6joc

The cryptoterrestrials hypothesis invites us to expand our perspective on extraterrestrial life, challenging the conventional narrative of aliens as distant visitors. While evidence supporting the existence of cryptoterrestrials is currently lacking, the hypothesis encourages curiosity and exploration of alternative explanations for unexplained phenomena. As scientific understanding evolves, the possibility of discovering hidden civilizations or new forms of life continues to inspire both intrigue and skepticism. Ultimately, the cryptoterrestrials hypothesis serves as a reminder of the boundless mysteries that the universe, and perhaps even our own planet, still holds.

{ https://www.latest-ufo-sightings.net/ }

02-08-2024 om 18:55 geschreven door peter  

20 Years Later, MESSENGER Is Still Giving Us Strange Hidden Gems

A recent study looking decades-old data suggests Mercury may have a 10-mile-thick layer of diamond deep in its interior.

by Kiona Smith

 

NASA

Yongjiang Xu, of the Center for High Pressure Science and Technology Advanced Research in Beijing, and his colleagues published their work in the journal Nature Communications.

Diamonds In The Rough

Like most rocky planets, Mercury was once a seething, churning ball of magma. Over time, that magma cooled and solidified, and in the process, it settled into layers — giving the planet a dense inner core, a slightly lighter and mostly fluid mantle, and a light, rocky outer crust. To simulate that process, Xu and his colleagues made digital models using data from MESSENGER that offered clues about Mercury's inner structure. They also squashed a lot of carbon samples in the lab to see how the material behaved under tremendous heat and pressure.

According to Xu and his colleagues’ simulations, there should be a layer of diamond lying atop Mercury's core and just beneath its mantle — and it could be between 9 and 11 miles thick. The diamond would have crystallized out of an ocean of carbon-rich magma that once covered Mercury billions of years ago.

Meanwhile, on the surface, carbon crystallized into a different (and much less sparkly) form called graphite. Graphite and diamond are both pure carbon, but the atoms are arranged in different crystal structures, which gives the two materials very different properties. At the surface, where pressures and temperatures were much lower, the carbon formed dark, soft graphite. Deep below, the intense pressure beneath Mercury's mantle pressed carbon into diamond — if Xu and his colleagues are right.

Don’t Shoot The Messenger

The finding is just the latest scientific gem MESSENGER has laid at our feet since its launch 20 years ago. It took four years just to reach Mercury in 2008, and then the spacecraft had to make a carefully-planned series of flybys to slow down enough to enter Mercury's orbit without also accidentally getting pulled into the Sun. (Trying to maneuver a spacecraft that close to the Sun's gravitational influence is a challenge.) MESSENGER settled into Mercury's orbit in 2011.

During its four years in orbit around Mercury, MESSENGER revealed some surprising things about our Solar System's innermost planet. One of those is the graphite that dusts its surface, which gives the planet's surface its dark, patchy appearance — and gave Xu and his colleagues the idea for their recent simulations.

MESSENGER also revealed that Mercury has tectonic quakes, similar to the quakes that happen on Earth and Mars, and that the already-small planet is actually shrinking a little bit every year. The mission found evidence of frozen water deep in the permanent shadows of some of Mercury’s polar craters. And there's even a hint that some organic chemistry, and maybe even very simple cells, once could have eked out an existence beneath the planet's surface.

Xu and his colleagues’ simulations may help explain another of MESSENGER's most important discoveries: Mercury's surprisingly strong magnetic field.

For such a small planet, Mercury boasts a disproportionately powerful magnetic field. If Xu and his colleagues are right, the layer of diamond lying beneath the mantle could be changing how heat flows from the core to the mantle (because diamond transfers heat very efficiently). That, in turn, could be changing how convection, currents driven by hot liquid rising and cool liquid sinking, happens in the molten outer layers of Mercury's core. And since all that flowing molten metal is part of what generates the magnetic field, the diamond layer could be a big part of the explanation.

The MESSENGER mission came to a dramatic end on April 30, 2015, when the spacecraft smashed into Mercury's surface at more than 8,000 miles per hour. Because MESSENGER was on the far side of the planet at the time, its human team back on Earth didn't witness its final moments; they heard only the silence of the dead spacecraft failing to resume radio contact a few moments later.

MESSENGER set the foundation for the European Space Agency's BepiColombo mission, and it may also shed light on the interiors of other rocky planets.

"The processes that led to the formation of a diamond layer on Mercury might also have occurred on other planets, potentially leaving similar signatures," says Yanhao Lin, also of the Center for High Pressure Science and Technology Advanced Research in Beijing and a coauthor of the recent study, in a recent statement. The riches of the Universe seem to only grow with time.

{ https://www.inverse.com/ }

02-08-2024 om 18:44 geschreven door peter  

Oorlog in de ruimte: VS voelen hete adem van Rusland en China

Volgens de New York Times zet het Pentagon spoed achter de voorbereidingen om oorlog in de ruimte te kunnen voeren.  

Washington is ervan overtuigd dat de snelle vooruitgang van China en Rusland op het gebied van ruimteoperaties een groeiende bedreiging vormt voor de Amerikaanse troepen en andere militaire middelen op de grond en satellieten in een baan om de aarde.

De details van de inspanningen van het Pentagon blijven zeer vertrouwelijk. Bepaalde documenten zijn echter onlangs vrijgegeven en gepubliceerd door de New York Times.

Daarin erkennen functionarissen van het Ministerie van Defensie in toenemende mate dat het initiatief een grote verschuiving in militaire operaties weerspiegelt, waarbij de ruimte een echt slagveld zal worden.

De VS zal niet langer alleen vertrouwen op militaire satellieten om te communiceren, navigeren, traceren en te richten op terrestrische bedreigingen, instrumenten die het Pentagon decennialang een aanzienlijk voordeel hebben gegeven in conflicten.

Het ministerie van Defensie wil een nieuwe generatie instrumenten op de grond en in de ruimte verwerven waarmee het zijn satellietnetwerk kan verdedigen tegen aanvallen en, indien nodig, vijandelijke ruimtevaartuigen in een baan om de aarde kan verstoren of uitschakelen, aldus functionarissen van het Pentagon in een reeks interviews, toespraken en verklaringen

De strategie verschilt fundamenteel van eerdere militaire ruimteprogramma's door de uitbreiding van het scala aan offensieve capaciteiten, wat heel anders is dan het voorstel voor het Strategisch Defensie-initiatief uit de jaren tachtig, dat nooit het daglicht zag en dat tot doel had satellieten te gebruiken om de Verenigde Staten te beschermen tegen aanvallen met nucleaire raketten.

• (SR and MaSi for Tagtik/Source: New York Times/Photo: Pixabay)

{ https://www.msn.com/nl-be/ }

02-08-2024 om 18:31 geschreven door peter  

It’s an ancient idea, which only increases its resonance for some. The Greek philosopher Anaxagoras was the first to propose it. He coined the term ‘panspermia’ and said that the Universe was full of life and that some of it fell to Earth. It remains on the fringe of science because it can’t explain how life started, and it’s not testable. But it is enduring.

Oumuamua’s appearance sparked renewed interest in Panspermia. After the object came and went rapidly in 2017, scientists attempted to determine what it actually was. Maybe it was a comet, maybe it was an asteroid, maybe it was a chunk of frozen hydrogen. Many hypotheses were presented. Now, we simply call it an interstellar object, or ISO.

From the perspective of panspermia, Oumuamua’s classification isn’t the most pressing concern. It was a visitor to our Solar System from elsewhere, and that’s the most salient point.

In a new paper, a trio of researchers examine how many of these types of objects might exist and what properties they’d need to protect and transport life throughout the galaxy. The paper is titled “The Implications of ‘Oumuamua on Panspermia.” The lead author is David Cao, a high school student who also served as an intern at the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory.

“Panspermia is the hypothesis that life originated on Earth from the bombardment of foreign interstellar ejecta harbouring polyextremophile microorganisms,” the authors write. “By utilizing ‘Oumuamua’s properties as an anchor, we estimate the mass and number density of ejecta in the ISM.”

Throughout their work, they acknowledge that “panspermia is an extraordinarily difficult theory to quantitatively model and assess.” But it’s still worth an attempt because of Oumuamua. “The recently discovered ‘Oumuamua merits a reexamination for the possibility of panspermia, the hypothesis that life seeded on Earth from the bombardment of life-bearing interstellar ejecta and that life can be transferred from one celestial body to another.”

The trio determined the minimum size of ejecta needed to protect extremophiles from radiation, especially from supernovae. Intense gamma rays can sterilize ejecta if they’re not large enough for extremophiles to survive in their interiors, shielded by rock or water ice. Ejecta also needs to be large enough to protect any lifeforms from impact with another body. But the size depends on the nature of the ejecta.

“We consider the four most common elemental compositions of asteroids (chondritic, stony and metallic) and comets (water-ice) in our own Solar System: silicate, nickel, iron, and water-ice,” they write. Nickel has the highest attenuation and the smallest minimum size needed to shelter life. Water-ice requires the maximum size.

The authors explain, “We make an assumption that the number density abundances and varying compositions of interstellar ejecta mirror the content of minor bodies in our own Solar System.” Based on that, they settled on a minimum size of 6.6 meters.

They also tried to determine the likelihood that extremophiles could have seeded Earth, though they acknowledge that many of the factors involved are poorly understood and poorly constrained. In order to seed life, an ejecta carrying extremophiles had to have arrived at Earth early, before the earliest evidence of fossilized life. “Second, we estimate the total number of impact events on Earth after its formation and prior to the emergence of life (? 0.8 Gyr).”

They calculate impact rates for objects of different sizes. For objects at least 10 meters in diameter, they calculate that about 40,000 of them could’ve impacted Earth in its first 800,000 years.

Existing estimates of the number of Earth-like planets in the Milky Way are available. Based on those, here’s what it all adds up to, keeping in mind all of the poorly constrained factors involved. “However, we find that panspermia is a plausible potential life-seeding mechanism for (optimistically) potentially up to ~ 10⁵ (100,000) of the ~ 10⁹ (one billion) Earth-sized habitable zone worlds in our Galaxy,” the authors write.

But the prospects that Earth itself was seeded by panspermia are very weak. “For the Earth in particular, we conclude that, independent of other hypotheses for the origins of life on Earth, panspermia remains improbable (< 0.001%).” In a way, it’s more of a thought experiment. The authors say that “the true relative probability for panspermia remains unknown.”

The panspermia idea will not disappear. It’s simply too compelling to discard, even though it cannot be tested.

Another way of looking at it is that Earth could be a source of panspermia rather than a receiver.

“The fraction of these rocky planets that possess magnetic fields, atmospheres, and liquid surface water capable of supporting life is currently unconstrained and unknown, but our work implies as many as 10⁴ of these worlds in our Galaxy could be populated with life today via panspermia under the most optimistic assumptions that all of these worlds are capable of supporting ejecta-transported life, with Earth as one of the potential source planets.” The number could rise to 10⁴ under the most optimistic conditions.

There are other factors to consider. We’re only beginning to determine the number of rogue planets or free-floating planets (FFPs). As we learn more about them and their abundance, the panspermia hypothesis will change. “The discovery of rogue-free floating planets (FFPs) suggests a significantly higher ISM ejecta number density than expected for large objects,” the authors explain.

Also, the number of ejecta and their mass haven’t been constant. For example, during the hypothesized Late Heavy Bombardment, a much larger number of objects were crashing into the Earth and the other Solar System bodies. How would that have affected panspermia?

“~4 Gyr ago, the Earth is thought to have experienced an unprecedented number of impact events
that consequently ejected matter into the ISM, the era of Late Heavy Bombardment,” the authors write. The rate of bombardment was between 100 to 500 times greater than the present rate. If other solar systems experienced similar events, there would be substantially more potential for panspermia.

The star formation rate also plays a role. “As more stars are formed, more mass will be ejected into the ISM in star formation regions, increasing the production of ISM ejecta number density,” the authors explain.

There are so many unknowns and so much conjecture that many scientists avoid the panspermia theory completely. But more and more data will keep coming our way, and as it does, the idea will be revised and reconsidered.

The Rubin Observatory Large Synoptic Survey Telescope will hopefully see its long-anticipated first light in early 2025. That telescope will undoubtedly detect many more ISOs and FFPs, filling in important gaps in our knowledge.

As that data comes in, expect more attention to be focused on the panspermia theory

{ https://www.universetoday.com/ }

02-08-2024 om 01:45 geschreven door peter  

Being trapped in space sounds like the stuff of nightmares. Astronauts on board the International Space Station have on occasion, had their return delayed by weather or equipment malfunction. We find ourselves again, watching and waiting as two astronauts; Juni Williams and Butch Wilmore have been stuck for months instead of their week long mission. The delays came as the Starliner system required fixes to be implemented. NASA successfully fired up 27 of its 28 thrusters in a hot-firing test and now, ground teams are preparing finally, to bring them home.

The Boeing Starliner spacecraft is officially known as the CST-100 Starliner. It was developed by Boeing as part of NASA’s Commercial Crew Program. Its purpose is to transport astronauts to the International Space Station and other low orbit craft. Starliner hit the headlines with its reusable design aimed at reducing costs and increasing launch frequency. It was first launched on 20 December 2019 as an uncrewed test flight to demonstrate docking capability with ISS. 

Since 2019 Starliner has had issues along the way but has largely seen a successful progression to becoming a key part of NASA’s launch capability. Just recently however there have been issues with the manoeuvring jets used to adjust the attitude. Engineering teams at NASA and Boeing have been working on and running tests with Mexico a new configuration. Part of the thruster system controls the flow of helium, these are the helium manifolds and they were opened to allow engineers to monitor any helium supply issues and leaks. 

The team ran a hot fire test of the reaction control system jets on 27 July to see if there were any problems with the propulsion system. They test fired 27 out of 28 jets while astronauts Wilmore and Williams sat inside the docked Starliner. The tests involved firing the jets for short bursts, one at a time. They revealed that all thrusters were back to performing well and the helium manifolds were within operational margins that were needed for a return trip from ISS. The engineering teams closed the manifolds ahead of undocking and returning the astronauts home. 

The work is not over for the engineering teams however as they are now reviewing data from the tests and from ground based testing at the White Sands Test Facility in New Mexico. Once the review of data is complete, NASA and Boeing will identify a date to return the astronauts. 

Meanwhile back on board the ISS Wilmore and Williams wait. They have been checking other Starliner systems in preparation for return, working with other Boeing teams to prepare and have been undertaking pressure tests of their space suits. They have been working alongside Expedition 71 members and have recently helped setup the BioServe centrifuge in the Harmony Module. The centrifuge supports a wide range of biological, physical and materials science projects. Facilitating the separation of substances with different densities it can work with cell cultures, DNA, protein, blood and sedimentary samples.

Source : 

• NASA, Boeing Complete Second Docked Starliner Hot Fire Test

{ https://www.universetoday.com/ }

02-08-2024 om 01:36 geschreven door peter  

Astronomers have recently spotted signs of an extended disk of dust and gas, whirling in orbit around a distant star.

While this phenomenon is a normal stage in the development of a star and its planetary system, what makes this find so spectacular is that it's the first one we've seen around a star in a whole other galaxy, outside of our own.

The feature was spotted in the Large Magellanic Cloud, a dwarf galaxy some 179,000 light-years away from the Milky Way. And, although it might seem like common sense to suppose that star formation processes are universal, we've not been able to observe their vagaries outside of our home galaxy before.

"When I first saw evidence for a rotating structure in the ALMA data I could not believe that we had detected the first extragalactic accretion disc, it was a special moment," said astronomer Anna McLeod of Durham University in the UK, when the findings were published in November.

"We know discs are vital to forming stars and planets in our galaxy, and here, for the first time, we're seeing direct evidence for this in another galaxy."

Stars are born from dense clumps in clouds of molecular gas and dust that hang out in interstellar space. When a clump grows dense enough, it collapses under gravity; spinning, it starts to draw in more material from the cloud around it. This material doesn't just fall onto the protostar any old how, though; it arranges into a disk around the star's equator, and falls down onto it in a more controlled, steady stream, like water down a drain.

Once the star is done forming, what remains of the disk stays there, clumping together to form all the other elements of a planetary system: the planets, the asteroids and meteors, the comets, the dust. That's why the Solar System's planets are more or less orbiting the Sun in a flat plane. We ourselves are like the sentient mold that grew on the leftovers of the Sun's breakfast.

The Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA), a powerful radio telescope, has imaged quite a few such disks throughout the Milky Way, in various stages of development; some have clear gaps that are thought to be cleared by planets clumping together as they orbit. But the farther away something is, the harder it is to resolve, even with a powerful telescope.

McLeod and her colleagues embarked on their campaign to find an extragalactic stellar disk when data obtained by the Multi Unit Spectroscopic Explorer (MUSE) instrument on the Very Large Telescope revealed signs of a jet, in a system named HH 1177.

These, too, are a signature of star formation: some of the material swirling around the forming star gets whisked away along its magnetic field lines to the poles, where it is launched into space in the form of a powerful jet.

The researchers wanted to see if they could spot the disk in the dusty heart of star formation, so they used ALMA to look for signs of rotation. This can be seen in the way wavelengths of light are shortened as the source is pushed towards us, and lengthened as they are pulled away.

"The frequency of light changes depending on how fast the gas emitting the light is moving towards or away from us," explained astronomer Jonathan Henshaw of Liverpool John Moores University in the UK. "This is precisely the same phenomenon that occurs when the pitch of an ambulance siren changes as it passes you and the frequency of the sound goes from higher to lower."

Interestingly, the ALMA data showed clear signs of this rotation. The star, the team's analysis revealed, is very young and massive, still feeding from the disk around it. This is pretty normal. But there was a difference between it and the protostellar disks found in the Milky Way: the HH 1177 disk can be seen in optical wavelengths.

This, the researchers explain, has to do with the interstellar environment in the Large Magellanic Cloud. There is much less dust there; so the HH 1177 star is not as shrouded in a curtain of material as young, massive Milky Way stars usually are.

This makes the discovery an important one for studying, not just how stars form in different environments, but the limits those environments can place on star formation in general.

"We are in an era of rapid technological advancement when it comes to astronomical facilities," McLeod said. "Being able to study how stars form at such incredible distances and in a different galaxy is very exciting."

• The research has been published in Nature.
• A version of this article was first published in December 2023.

{ https://www.msn.com/en-us/channel/topic/Science/ }

01-08-2024 om 22:46 geschreven door peter  

01-08-2024 om 22:36 geschreven door peter