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A close encounter between Earth and asteroid 99942 Apophis is expected to take place in April 2029. Named after an ancient Egyptian deity associated with darkness and disorder, Apophis will pass within 32,000 kilometres (20,000 miles) of Earth. According to recent simulations by Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, this event could cause significant shifts on the asteroid’s surface due to Earth’s gravitational influence.

Surface Disturbance Predicted by Simulation

The study was led by planetary scientist Dr Ronald Ballouz and was published The Planetary Science Journal. It suggests that Apophis‘ proximity to Earth might create seismic disturbances on its surface. These effects could cause surface movements that are measurable from Earth, giving scientists an unprecedented opportunity to observe near-Earth asteroids in a unique way. The asteroid, approximately 335 metres (1,100 feet) across, was initially calculated to be on a potential collision course with Earth upon its discovery in 2004. Current analysis has confirmed that there is no threat of impact in the foreseeable future.

Possible Impact on the Asteroid’s Rotation

As per a report by Space.com, another expected outcome is a change in Apophis’ rotational state. As it nears Earth, gravitational forces may alter its spin, which could result in surface reshaping as the asteroid continues orbiting the Sun over time. Past research has noted that asteroids showing less space-weathering than anticipated, like 25143 Itokawa, may owe these qualities to close planetary flybys. This particular flyby will thus allow scientists to study such transformations directly.

An Opportunity for Observation

As Apophis is projected to be visible without telescopes during its approach. As reported, researchers anticipate capturing detailed images of any changes. The findings from this study are expected to deepen understanding of how close encounters impact near-Earth objects, potentially influencing future research and asteroid-monitoring efforts.

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Solar System’s Journey Through Orion Complex May Have Altered Earth’s Climate

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March 3, 2025

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Solar System’s Journey Through Orion Complex May Have Altered Earth’s Climate

The movement of the solar system through the Orion star-forming complex around 14 million years ago may have influenced Earth’s climate, according to scientists. This dense region of space, part of the Radcliffe Wave galactic structure, could have compressed the heliosphere—the protective shield surrounding the solar system—while increasing interstellar dust reaching Earth. Researchers suggest that this influx of cosmic dust might have left traces in geological records, potentially linking galactic activity to past climate changes.

Solar System’s Passage Through the Radcliffe Wave

According to the study published in Astronomy & Astrophysics, an international research team led by the University of Vienna used data from the European Space Agency’s Gaia mission and spectroscopic observations to determine that the solar system moved through the Radcliffe Wave in the Orion constellation between 18.2 and 11.5 million years ago. The most probable period was estimated between 14.8 and 12.4 million years ago. João Alves, Professor of Astrophysics at the University of Vienna and co-author of the study, stated to Phys.org, that this research builds on prior findings regarding the Radcliffe Wave. This structure, made up of interconnected star-forming regions, includes the Orion complex, which the sun is believed to have passed through.

Potential Impact on Earth’s Climate

The study suggests that the increased presence of interstellar dust may have influenced Earth’s atmosphere. Efrem Maconi, lead author and doctoral student at the University of Vienna, said that this dust might have contained traces of radioactive elements from supernovae, which could be detected in geological records using advanced technology in the future.

The solar system’s passage aligns with the Middle Miocene Climate Transition, a period marked by a shift from a warmer, variable climate to a cooler one, leading to the development of Antarctic ice sheets. Scientists highlight that while interstellar dust could have played a role, the dominant factor in this climate change was a long-term decrease in atmospheric carbon dioxide levels.

Not Comparable to Human-Induced Climate Change

Maconi noted that while interstellar dust could have contributed to past climate shifts, the amount required for significant change would need to be much greater than current data suggests. The Middle Miocene Climate Transition unfolded over hundreds of thousands of years, unlike modern climate change, which is occurring rapidly due to human activities

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Ancient DNA Sheds Light on the Diverse Genetic Origins of the European Huns

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March 3, 2025

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Ancient DNA Sheds Light on the Diverse Genetic Origins of the European Huns

The origins of the Huns, a nomadic group that played a crucial role in the decline of the Roman Empire, have long remained uncertain. Recent DNA analysis of ancient skeletal remains has provided fresh insights into their ancestry, revealing a diverse genetic makeup rather than a singular point of origin. According to reports, researchers examined remains from individuals buried between the fourth and sixth centuries and found genetic links spanning Central Asia and Eastern Europe. These findings indicate that the Huns were not a homogenous group but a population shaped by centuries of migration and cultural interactions.

Genetic Analysis Reveals Diverse Ancestry

According to the study published in PNAS, a team led by Guido Gnecchi-Ruscone, an archaeogeneticist at the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, analysed the genomes of 370 individuals. The research aimed to trace connections between European Huns and earlier nomadic groups, including the Xiongnu, whose empire thrived in Mongolia between 200 B.C. and A.D. 100. While certain Hun individuals exhibited direct genetic links to the Xiongnu elite, most carried varying degrees of Northeast Asian ancestry, underscoring a complex history of intermingling.

Connections Across the Eurasian Steppe

Using a technique called identity by descent (IBD) segment sharing, the researchers identified genetic ties across multiple regions over several centuries. Their findings suggested that trans-Eurasian relationships were maintained across generations. While high-status Xiongnu burials in Mongolia showed direct descendants among the European Huns, the study concluded that no large-scale migration of Xiongnu populations into Europe took place.

Insights from an Elite Hun Burial

A burial site in Pusztataskony, Hungary, yielded the remains of a Hun woman with an elongated skull, buried alongside gold earrings. Gnecchi-Ruscone told Live Science that this individual carried genetic markers linking her to the Xiongnu elite, suggesting that skull modification, a notable cultural practice, may have been passed down through generations. The study reinforces the view that the European Huns were a culturally and genetically diverse group shaped by centuries of movement and integration rather than a single migratory event.

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NASA’s IM-2 Mission Brings Ice Mining, Mobile Robots, and More on Moon



Nothing Phone 3a Design Revealed Ahead of March 4 Launch: Expected Specifications

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NASA’s IM-2 Mission Brings Ice Mining, Mobile Robots, and More on Moon

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March 3, 2025

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NASA’s IM-2 Mission Brings Ice Mining, Mobile Robots, and More on Moon

NASA is preparing to send advanced technologies to the Moon through Intuitive Machines’ second lunar delivery under the Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) initiative. The mission, part of the Artemis programme, aims to establish a sustainable human presence on the Moon. A range of scientific instruments and communication systems will be tested on the lunar surface. The launch window for Intuitive Machines’ second CLPS mission, IM-2, is scheduled to open on 26 February from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center. The Nova-C class lander will carry key technology payloads, including a drill, mass spectrometer, a cellular network, and a drone for terrain exploration.

Lunar South Pole Exploration

As reported, the landing site for IM-2 has been selected based on data from NASA’s Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter. Located in the South Pole region, the site offers a relatively flat terrain, meeting the criteria for a safe landing. The area is of particular interest due to its potential for in-situ resource utilisation, which could support future lunar missions.

Demonstration of New Technologies

According to NASA’s Space Technology Mission Directorate, the Polar Resources Ice Mining Experiment-1 (PRIME-1) will be tested as part of the mission. PRIME-1 includes a drill and a mass spectrometer designed to search for water ice and other resources beneath the lunar surface. Data gathered from this experiment will assist in future space exploration efforts by providing insight into potential resource extraction for fuel and oxygen production.

Mobile Robotics on the Moon

Two technology demonstrations will be deployed near the lander under NASA’s Tipping Point initiative. Intuitive Machines has developed a small drone, named Grace, which will conduct high-resolution surveys of the lunar terrain. The drone is designed to navigate steep inclines, craters, and other challenging obstacles, helping scientists study permanently shadowed regions that cannot be accessed by traditional rovers.

Lunar Surface Communication System

A communication system developed by Nokia Bell Labs will be tested to establish a lunar cellular network. The system will enable communication between the lander, a Lunar Outpost rover, and the Grace drone. It will be the first demonstration of cellular-based connectivity on the Moon, with potential applications for future crewed missions and robotic exploration.

Collaboration for Lunar Exploration

NASA is working alongside several U.S. companies to deliver scientific and technological advancements to the lunar surface. The Space Technology Mission Directorate has integrated multiple research and development efforts to support future Moon missions. The combination of CLPS and Tipping Point initiatives aims to advance exploration capabilities, benefiting NASA and the broader space industry.

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