A group of single-celled organisms known as Asgard archaea has drawn scientific attention for its potential link to the evolution of complex life. These microbes were first identified through gene fragments in deep-sea sediments. They have been recognised as a separate archaeal subgroup. Their discovery has led to significant questions about the classification of life forms. Researchers suggest that eukaryotes, organisms with a nucleus, may have evolved from these microbes. This challenges the long-standing three-domain model of life that separates bacteria, archaea, and eukaryotes.
Findings from Recent Studies
According to a study published in Cell, researchers at ETH Zurich have examined the cellular structure of Asgard archaea, particularly Lokiarchaeum ossiferum. The study, led by Professor Martin Pilhofer, highlights the presence of an actin protein called Lokiactin. This protein is similar to actin found in eukaryotic cells and forms filamentous structures, which are believed to contribute to the microbes’ complex architecture. Postdoctoral researchers Jingwei Xu and Florian Wollweber conducted microscopy studies to confirm the role of these structures.
Microtubules in Asgard Archaea
In an earlier study, the team identified actin filaments in Asgard archaea, but the presence of microtubules had remained uncertain. The latest findings reveal that Asgard archaea produce tubulin proteins that form microtubule-like structures, though on a smaller scale than those in eukaryotic cells. Unlike actin filaments, these tubulins were observed in only a few species. Their function is not fully understood, but researchers suggest that they might support transport within the cell.
Implications for Evolutionary Biology
According to reports, the cytoskeleton of Asgard archaea may have played a crucial role in the emergence of eukaryotic life. Scientists propose that an Asgard archaeon could have engulfed a bacterium, which later evolved into mitochondria. Pilhofer stated in Cell that these cytoskeletal structures may have enabled interactions between archaea and bacteria, ultimately leading to the development of eukaryotic cells. Research into these microbes continues, with efforts focused on understanding their proteins and cellular functions.
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An important breakthrough in transistor technology has been reported by researchers in China. They claim that a newly developed silicon-free transistor could significantly enhance processing speeds while reducing energy consumption. The transistor was designed using two-dimensional materials. This development, if successfully integrated into processors, has the potential to increase chip performance by 40 percent compared to existing silicon-based chips while consuming 10 percent less power.
New Materials and Architecture in Semiconductor Technology
According to the study published in Nature, the research team introduced a gate-all-around field-effect transistor (GAAFET) built using bismuth oxyselenide. This structure is different from the conventional fin field-effect transistors (FinFETs) by completely surrounding the transistor’s source with a gate on all four sides instead of three. The researchers suggested that this design improves electrostatic control and allows for higher drive currents. This will lead to more efficient performance.
Bismuth-Based Transistors and Their Advantages
As reported by the South China Morning Post, lead author Hailin Peng, Professor of Chemistry at Peking University, described the innovation as a shift from conventional materials rather than an extension of existing technology. The study states that bismuth oxyselenide offers higher carrier mobility, which enables faster electron movement under an electrical field. The material’s high dielectric constant has also been highlighted as a good factor contributing to energy efficiency. The new transistors are reported to be less brittle and more flexible than silicon-based alternatives.
Implications for China’s Semiconductor Industry
If these transistors are successfully developed for large-scale production, China could bypass restrictions on advanced chip procurement. By using an alternative semiconductor material, Chinese manufacturers could move towards an independent chip-making process, reducing reliance on existing technology from global semiconductor firms.
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The first attempt to launch an orbital rocket from European soil has been postponed due to high winds. Isar Aerospace, a Germany-based private space company, had planned to launch its Spectrum rocket from Andøya Spaceport in Norway on March 24. The three-hour launch window was set between 7:30 a.m. EST and 10:30 a.m. EDT. Strong winds at the launch site, however, led to the cancellation of the attempt. No damage or technical issues were reported with the rocket or the launch infrastructure. The company has stated that a new launch window is being determined in coordination with the spaceport.
Mission Details and Technical Aspects
According to reports, Spectrum is a two-stage launch vehicle developed entirely by Isar Aerospace. Standing 28 metres tall, the rocket is designed to carry payloads of up to 1,000 kilograms into low-Earth orbit. Its main stage is powered by nine turbopump liquid oxygen/propane engines, while a single Aquila engine is used for orbital manoeuvres. The launch site at Andøya Spaceport, which was built specifically to support Spectrum, has been operational since 2023. The maiden flight does not include customer payloads, as the company aims to collect flight data for future missions.
Commercial Contracts and Future Plans
Isar Aerospace has secured a contract with the Norwegian Space Agency for the launch of Arctic Ocean Surveillance satellites by 2028. Christian Hauglie-Hanssen, Director General of the Norwegian Space Agency, stated in an official release that the upcoming launches would be a significant step for Norwegian space initiatives. Despite the current delay, the company remains focused on achieving key mission milestones. A revised launch schedule is expected to be announced soon.
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NASA is considering another test flight for Boeing’s CST-100 Starliner spacecraft before it is used for routine crew rotation missions to the International Space Station. The agency’s commercial crew program manager, Steve Stich, stated that modifications to the spacecraft are being assessed, particularly in the propulsion system, which faced issues during its Crew Flight Test mission. Reports says helium leaks and thruster failures were detected. It lead to changes that must be validated before the vehicle carries astronauts on scheduled missions. Boeing has reportedly been working on solutions, with engineers testing new seals and propulsion components to prevent further complications.
Challenges with Starliner’s Propulsion System
According to reports, as per NASA, most of the anomalies from the Crew Flight Test have been addressed, though challenges remain with the propulsion system. The helium leaks and thruster failures encountered on the previous mission required astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore to stay aboard the station longer than planned. Stich told reporters that the next flight will focus on verifying the improvements, ensuring that Starliner can safely transport crew members. He mentioned that even if an uncrewed test is conducted, all necessary systems will be in place to support human spaceflight.
Boeing’s Commitment to the Starliner Program
In reports, Stich mentioned that despite significant financial losses, Boeing remains committed to the program. The company has taken charges amounting to over $2 billion since the project began. Boeing’s new CEO Kelly Ortberg has reportedly reinforced the company’s dedication, with extensive testing being carried out to improve reliability. NASA has not yet confirmed whether the first crew rotation mission will be assigned to Starliner or if SpaceX’s Crew Dragon will continue until further tests are complete. The agency expects a decision to be made by the summer.
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