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An elliptical galaxy located 88 million light-years from Earth has been observed displaying unusual characteristics, with astronomers identifying it as a cosmic predator. The latest images captured by the Very Large Telescope (VLT) at the European Southern Observatory (ESO) indicate that the galaxy, designated NGC 3640, has a history of consuming smaller galaxies and may soon engulf another. The galaxy’s distorted structure and the faint, diffused light surrounding it serve as evidence of its turbulent past, as per reports. Positioned just above a smaller galaxy, NGC 3641, the larger body appears to be on a trajectory that could lead to a future merger. The study of such interactions provides insights into the evolutionary patterns of galaxies.

Evidence of Past Galactic Mergers

According to research published in Astronomy & Astrophysics, signs of previous mergers have been detected within NGC 3640. The structural distortions observed, coupled with the presence of older stellar populations, suggest that remnants of previously absorbed galaxies are embedded within its formation. Astronomers at the Italian National Institute for Astrophysics have analysed the remnants, with findings indicating that ancient stars from the original galaxy serve as markers of past collisions. The faint glow surrounding NGC 3640 is attributed to these past interactions, demonstrating the lasting effects of galactic mergers.

Upcoming Galactic Collision

Reports suggest that while NGC 3641 remains intact, its eventual fate may align with the ongoing patterns of NGC 3640. As galaxies interact, their gravitational forces distort their structures, often leading to eventual mergers. Current observations indicate no immediate impact on NGC 3641, implying that significant interactions have yet to begin. ESO officials have stated that galaxies undergo structural changes over time due to the absorption of gas and stars from their surroundings. This process has been linked to the unique shape and features displayed by NGC 3640.

Gravitational Influence and Cosmic Evolution

The gravitational forces exerted by approaching galaxies can trigger large-scale changes in their structures. Astronomers have been closely monitoring such interactions to gain a deeper understanding of galactic evolution. The observations made using the VLT provide an opportunity to study these cosmic processes in detail, with researchers continuing to track the potential merger between NGC 3640 and its smaller companion. The findings contribute to broader studies on the dynamic nature of galaxies and their role in shaping the universe over billions of years.

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Newly Detected Seaborgium-257 Offers Critical Data on Fission and Quantum Shell Effects

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July 2, 2025

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Newly Detected Seaborgium-257 Offers Critical Data on Fission and Quantum Shell Effects

German Scientists at GSI Helmholtzzentrum für Schwerionenforschung found a new superheavy isotope, 257Sg, named Seaborgium, which reveals unexpected details about the stability and nuclear fission. This study was published in Physical Review Letters and describes how this isotope, made by fusing chromium-52 with lead-206, survived for 12.6 milliseconds, longer than usual. The rare longevity and decay into 253Rf provide new indications of how K-quantum numbers or angular momentum impact the fission resistance. The findings fill in the gaps and give us an understanding of the effects of quantum shells in superheavy nuclei, which is crucial for preventing immediate disintegration.

Challenging Traditional Views on K-Quantum Numbers and Fission

As per the study by GSI, it challenges conservative views on how K-quantum numbers impact fission. Previously, it was found that the higher K values lead to greater fission hindrance, but after getting the findings from the GSI team, a more complex dynamic emerged. They found that K-quantum numbers offer hindrance to fission, but it is still ot known that it is how much, said Dr. Pavol Mosat, the study’s co-author.

Discovery of First K-Isomeric State in Seaborgium

An important milestone is the identification of the first K-isomeric state in seaborgium. In 259Sg, the scientists found that the conversion of the electron signal occurs 40 microseconds after the nuclear formation. This is clear evidence of the high angular momentum K-isomer. These states have longer lifetimes and friction in fission in a more effective way than their ground-state counterparts.

Implications for the Theorised Island of Stability

This discovery by the scientists provides key implications for the Island of stability, which has long been theorised. It is a region where superheavy elements could have comparatively long half-lives. If K-isomers are present in the still undiscovered elements such as 120, they can enable scientists in the detection of nuclei that would otherwise decay in just under one microsecond.

Synthesising 256Sg with Ultra-Fast Detection Systems

This team of German Scientists under GSI is now aiming to synthesise 256Sg, which might decay quicker than observed or predicted. Their success is dependent on the ultra-fast detection systems created by GSI, which are capable of capturing events within 100 nanoseconds. This continued research by the team may help in reshaping the search and studying the heaviest elements in the periodic table.

For the latest tech news and reviews, follow Gadgets 360 on X, Facebook, WhatsApp, Threads and Google News. For the latest videos on gadgets and tech, subscribe to our YouTube channel. If you want to know everything about top influencers, follow our in-house Who’sThat360 on Instagram and YouTube.

Further reading:
257Sg, seaborgium, K-isomer, superheavy, elements, nuclear stability, fission, GSI, TASCA, Physical Review Letters, element 120, island of stability

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NASA CODEX Telescope on ISS Reveals Hidden Secrets of the Sun’s Corona

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July 2, 2025

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NASA CODEX Telescope on ISS Reveals Hidden Secrets of the Sun’s Corona

A mini solar telescope aboard the International Space Station caught the first-ever images, which reveal the subtle and never-seen changes in the outer atmosphere of the Sun. It is known as the Coronal Diagnostic Experiment (CODEX) and has been designed to understand the solar corona, the outer layer of the Sun, in depth. This mini telescope functions like a coronagraph, which blocks the Sun’s disk to imitate the total solar eclipse. CODEX was delivered through SpaceX Dragon on November 5, 2024. It was mounted on the ISS using the Canadarm2 robotic arm on November 9, 2025.

Revolutionising Solar Observation

According to the report by NASA, the unique design of CODEX consists of an occulting disk the size of a tennis ball held by three arms made up of metal. It allows it to block the intense sunlight when imaging the faint corona. The first images were revealed on June 10, 2025, at the time of the American Astronomical Society’s meeting in Alaska. These comprised pictures of coronal streamers and footage of the temperature fluctuations in the outer corona over many days. This offers a fresh perspective on solar dynamics.

Measuring Solar Wind Like Never Before

CODEX is unlike the previous coronagraphs as it is the first to measure both the speed and temperature of the solar wind. There is a constant flow of superhot particles from the Sun. With the help of four narrowband filters, in which two are used for determining the temperature and two for speed, astronomers compare brightness to decode these properties, which helps in solving the mystery of how the solar wind reaches 1.8 million degrees Fahrenheit.

Tackling the Solar Weather Challenge

To know the solar wind, it is crucial to predict the geomagnetic storms triggered by the coronal holes. Shortly, the storms observed on June 13, 2025 and June 25, 2025, caused auroras because of these events. After refining the analysis of solar wind, CODEX can help in mitigating and forecasting such kind of disturbances.

A Timely Launch Amid Solar Peak

NASA’s CODEX started operations at a suitable moment, just as the current solar maximum comes to its end. As the magnetic field of the Sun shifts during the solar battle zone, CODEX is ready to catch the critical data that can change our understanding of the weather in space.

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Rocket Lab Sets Record with ‘Symphony in the Stars’ Launch for Confidential Client

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July 2, 2025

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Rocket Lab Sets Record with 'Symphony in the Stars' Launch for Confidential Client

Rocket Lab has launched the mysterious satellite on Saturday, June 28, 2025, making another milestone, as it is the first ever record of their missions. At 12:38 p.m. IST, the Electron rocket lifted from Launch Complex 1 in Mahia. The mission is known as “Symphony in the Stars,” and carried a single spacecraft above 650 kilometres above the Earth’s orbit. This satellite was deployed for a confidential commercial client, and the details are still not revealed. However, Rocket Lab has made a record by doing so.

Confidential Launch, Yet Revealed

As reported by Rocket Launch, it was the 68th Electron launch of Rocket Lab overall and the tenth mission of 2025. Even after its confidentiality, it was confirmed that it had successfully launched into space. Rocket Lab shared its news on social media regarding Mission Success and confirmed payload deployment. They further wrote, “Music to our ears for “Symphony in the stars.” It was one of the two missions dedicated to the same client, with the second launch to happen later in 2025.

This launch went through 48 hours after the “Get the Haw Outta Here mission.” This set a new record for the company. This different and every achievement highlights the reliability and ability of Electron Rocket Lab to offer responsive and repeatable access to space. It is a significant milestone, especially for the demand for fast satellite deployment continuity to arise.

Rocket Launch’s Occupied Month

It was a busy month for Rocket Launch as it went through the completion of four missions alone. Further, in the queue, after “Symphony in the Stars,” they launched “Full Stream Ahead,” then “The Mountain God Guards,” and “Get The Hawk Outta Here.” Every mission has supported commercial satellite operators, which demonstrates the versatility of Electron in rapid deployment schedules and handling.

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