Asteroid Shaped Like Spinning Hockey Puck Observed Near Earth
Scientists have discovered that asteroid 2024 YR4, once considered a minor threat to Earth but now potentially headed for the moon, resembles a spinning hockey puck. The asteroid's unique shape and rapid rotation provide valuable insights for future planetary defense efforts. Further study to be conducted by the Webb Space Telescope.
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Micromoon to Dimly Light Up This Weekend's Night Sky
Look up this Saturday to see the smallest full moon of the year! Although you may not see much difference, it will still be an amazing celestial event. Another micromoon will be visible in May. Three supermoons will be visible later this year.
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Kennedy Jr. to Advise CDC to Endorse Fluoride Ban; EPA Reviews Risks
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. intends to advise the CDC to halt recommendations for water fluoridation. The EPA is also reviewing potential health risks, and Utah recently banned fluoride in public water, sparking debate over health impacts on low-income communities.
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Uranus's Day Extends: New Hubble Data Reveals Longer Rotation
Hubble Space Telescope observations reveal a slight increase in Uranus's rotation period. A day on the ice giant is now confirmed to be 28 seconds longer than previous estimates, thanks to a decade-long study of its auroras and magnetic poles.
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Shingles Vaccine May Offer Unexpected Dementia Protection
Research indicates shingles vaccination may reduce dementia risk in older adults by 20% over seven years. The virus can cause inflammation and affect brain blood vessels, increasing risks. Experts recommend vaccination, alongside healthy habits like social engagement and blood pressure control, to mitigate dementia risks as population ages.
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Icelandic Volcano Erupts, Prompting Evacuations of Town and Spa
A volcano erupted in southwestern Iceland, leading to evacuations. The fissure near Grindavik measures 1,200 meters and spreads southward. The magma flow, accompanied by earthquakes, occurred at 6:30 a.m. local time. This eruption follows a history of Iceland's volcanic activity, notably the 2010 Eyjafjallajokull eruption that disrupted air travel.
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Webb Telescope Captures Unprecedented Detail of Neptune's Auroras
The James Webb Space Telescope has captured Neptune's auroras in greater detail than ever before. This reveals new insights into the planet's atmospheric phenomena, building on initial observations from Voyager 2 and highlighting the impact of Neptune's unique magnetic field.
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Partial Solar Eclipse to Cross Continents This Weekend
Witness a partial solar eclipse this weekend across Europe, Africa, North America, and Asia. Remember to protect your eyes! Check local astronomy websites for start times. The eclipse will appear as the moon takes a "bite" out of the sun, creating a crescent shape. Eclipse glasses are essential for safe viewing.
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Parker Solar Probe Prepares for Another Close Encounter with the Sun
NASA's Parker Solar Probe is set for another close flyby of the sun, its second of three planned encounters. The spacecraft previously broke records by coming within 3.8 million miles of the sun. Scientists anticipate new data to understand the sun's corona and solar wind.
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Purdue Pharma Proposes $7 Billion Opioid Settlement Plan
Purdue Pharma presents an updated settlement plan including up to $7 billion from the Sackler family to resolve opioid lawsuits. The plan addresses the opioid crisis, provides direct payments to victims and releases millions of documents to a public repository.
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Unexpected Detours: The Short History of Extended Spaceflights
Discover the untold stories of astronauts and cosmonauts who experienced unexpected extended stays in space, surpassing initial mission plans. From technical malfunctions to voluntary research, their journeys reveal the challenges and triumphs of long-duration spaceflights. Explore the records, risks, and remarkable achievements in human space exploration.
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Understanding the Spring Equinox: What it Signifies
The vernal equinox arrives this Thursday, marking the start of spring in the Northern Hemisphere and autumn in the Southern Hemisphere. Equinoxes are the only time when both poles are lit simultaneously. Celebrations worldwide mark this event, influenced by Earth's orbit and axial alignment, dictating our yearly calendar and seasonal changes.
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Private Lunar Lander Captures First High-Definition Moon Sunset Photos
A private lunar lander, Blue Ghost, captured the first high-definition sunset photos on the Moon. The lander ceased operations after collecting data during the lunar night. Scientists will analyze images to study the horizon glow. Reactivation efforts are planned, but success is uncertain.
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Understanding Tornadoes: Causes, Warnings, and Safety Measures
Understanding the causes and alerts associated with tornadoes is critical for safety. Tornadoes, spawned by low-pressure systems and specific atmospheric conditions, can cause widespread damage. Awareness and preparedness, including heeding watches and warnings, are key to minimizing risk. Secure shelters and weather radios are essential tools.
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EPA Announces Review of Key Environmental Regulations
EPA Administrator announces nearly three dozen deregulatory moves, impacting rules for clean air, water, and emissions. These changes aim to spur the U.S. economy by easing burdens on industry, but critics worry about potential environmental and health consequences. Key regulations on power plants, wastewater, and chemical safety are under review.
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SpaceX Delays ISS Crew Replacement Flight Due to Launch Pad Issue
SpaceX delayed a flight to the ISS due to a launch pad issue, affecting the return of two NASA astronauts. A hydraulic system problem arose before the Falcon rocket's planned liftoff. The new launch date is uncertain, pending further assessment by SpaceX. The mission aims to replace astronauts stuck due to Boeing's Starliner capsule issues.
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