Global Pulse

分类： science

  • China celebrates two years of pioneering X-ray observations

    China celebrates two years of pioneering X-ray observations

    China’s groundbreaking Tianguan satellite, internationally recognized as the Einstein Probe, has completed two successful years of orbital operations since its launch on January 9, 2024. The advanced spacecraft continues to deliver unprecedented insights into cosmic phenomena through its revolutionary observation capabilities.

    Equipped with innovative lobster-eye optics technology, the satellite has demonstrated exceptional performance in detecting transient X-ray events across the universe. This unique imaging system enables the probe to capture faint, rapid-changing celestial events that previously eluded scientific observation, providing astronomers with valuable data about high-energy cosmic processes.

    As a dedicated soft X-ray monitoring mission, the Einstein Probe has established itself as a critical component within the global time-domain astronomy network. The spacecraft maintains active collaboration with international observatories, contributing significantly to the worldwide scientific community’s understanding of dynamic cosmic events.

    The mission’s stable operational performance over its two-year tenure has yielded substantial scientific returns, with researchers gaining new perspectives on black hole activity, neutron star behavior, and other high-energy astrophysical phenomena. The continuous data stream from the satellite has enabled astronomers to monitor cosmic events in unprecedented detail, opening new avenues for understanding the most energetic processes in the universe.

    China’s National Space Science Center continues to oversee the mission, which represents a significant achievement in the country’s growing capabilities in space science and astronomical research. The probe’s ongoing operations demonstrate China’s commitment to advancing global astronomical knowledge and technological innovation in space exploration.

  • How radioactive rhino horns are helping with conservation

    How radioactive rhino horns are helping with conservation

    In a groundbreaking anti-poaching initiative, South African conservationists are implanting radioactive isotopes into the horns of live rhinoceroses. This radical approach aims to render the horns dangerously radioactive, thereby making them easier to detect at international border crossings and significantly less desirable on the black market.

    The project, a collaboration between the University of the Witwatersrand and other research entities, utilizes a process of drilling a small hole into the inert keratin of the horn to insert a minute quantity of radioactive material. This substance is carefully calibrated to be powerful enough to trigger radiation monitors installed at ports, airports, and border posts—key smuggling checkpoints globally—while posing no health risk to the animal itself or its surrounding ecosystem.

    The primary objective is to drastically increase the cost and difficulty for wildlife traffickers. By turning the horn into a radioactive product that would be flagged by security systems, the method introduces a formidable layer of risk for smugglers, potentially deterring poachers and disrupting illicit supply chains. This innovation represents a fusion of nuclear science and conservation biology, offering a new, high-tech weapon in the ongoing battle to protect these critically endangered species from extinction driven by the illegal wildlife trade.

  • Tiangong playing a key role in research

    Tiangong playing a key role in research

    China’s Tiangong space station has solidified its position as a world-class orbital research facility, with the China Manned Space Agency reporting the successful completion of 86 cutting-edge scientific missions throughout 2025. The station, which became fully operational in late 2022, has demonstrated exceptional capabilities in supporting advanced space-based research across multiple disciplines.

    According to official data released by the space agency, the station facilitated the transportation of 1,179 kilograms of specialized experimental equipment and research materials to orbit while successfully returning 105 kilograms of valuable scientific samples to Earth for detailed analysis. The research operations generated an unprecedented volume of data, with over 150 terabits of scientific information transmitted to ground-based research facilities.

    The year 2025 witnessed several landmark achievements in space science, including China’s pioneering in-orbit experimentation involving rodent mammals—a significant breakthrough in space biology research. Additionally, the station hosted the world’s first demonstration of an autonomous pipe-inspection robotic system under microgravity conditions, showcasing innovative engineering solutions for space infrastructure maintenance.

    The scientific output from these orbital experiments has been substantial, resulting in the publication of more than 230 peer-reviewed academic papers in prestigious journals and the filing of over 70 patents for novel technologies and methodologies developed through space station research.

    Currently orbiting at approximately 400 kilometers altitude, Tiangong represents humanity’s largest independently operated space habitat with a mass of approximately 100 metric tons. The complex comprises three permanent modules—the Tianhe core module accompanied by the Wentian and Mengtian laboratory modules—and is presently docked with both the Shenzhou XXII crew spacecraft and Tianzhou 9 cargo transport vehicle.

    Since becoming operational, Tiangong has hosted 25 astronauts across 10 separate crew rotations, with several veteran spacefarers having completed multiple missions aboard the orbital outpost. By the conclusion of 2025, the station had supported 265 distinct scientific and technological research initiatives spanning life sciences, microgravity physics, and next-generation space technologies.

  • New Zealand’s rare flightless parrot begins breeding again

    New Zealand’s rare flightless parrot begins breeding again

    In a significant development for conservation efforts, New Zealand’s critically endangered kakapo parrot has commenced its breeding cycle for the first time since 2022, igniting optimism among wildlife experts for a potentially record-breaking season. The flightless, nocturnally active parrot—known for its distinctive green plumage and robust physique—initiated mating activities last week across three carefully managed island sanctuaries.

    The current wild population stands at precisely 236 individuals, with 83 females of reproductive age participating in this season’s breeding activities. Conservation authorities from New Zealand’s Department of Conservation express particular enthusiasm for this cycle, noting the four-year interval since the last breeding event aligns with the species’ natural reproductive patterns.

    Deidre Vercoe, Kakapo Recovery Operations Manager, emphasized the significance of this development: ‘The anticipation surrounding this breeding season has been substantial given the extended gap since previous activities. We’re projecting potentially unprecedented chick production numbers this year, possibly marking the most successful season since program initiation three decades ago.’

    The Kakapo Recovery Programme—established collaboratively in 1995 between the Department of Conservation and Ngai Tahu, the indigenous Māori tribe—commenced with merely 51 birds facing imminent extinction risk. While population numbers peaked at 252 in 2022, subsequent years witnessed a decline of 16 individuals due to natural causes and environmental factors.

    This season represents the thirteenth documented breeding cycle within the program’s 30-year history, consistent with the species’ characteristic two-to-four year reproductive intervals. Beyond numerical targets, conservationists emphasize broader ecological objectives including reduced human intervention and eventual establishment of self-sustaining populations.

    Tane Davis, Ngai Tahu representative within the recovery program, articulated long-term aspirations for species reintroduction throughout New Zealand’s South Island territories. The initial chick hatchings are projected for mid-February, with conservation teams implementing enhanced monitoring protocols to maximize reproductive success.

  • International Space Station crew to return early after astronaut medical issue

    International Space Station crew to return early after astronaut medical issue

    In an unprecedented development for space operations, NASA has initiated the first controlled medical evacuation from the International Space Station following an undisclosed health incident involving a crewmember. The decision, announced Thursday, marks a historic moment in the orbital laboratory’s 25-year continuous habitation.

    The four astronauts of NASA-SpaceX Crew-11 mission—American astronauts Mike Fincke and Zena Cardman, Japanese space agency member Kimiya Yui, and Russian cosmonaut Oleg Platonov—will conclude their mission ahead of schedule, returning to Earth within days via standard splashdown procedures. Officials emphasized this does not constitute an emergency evacuation but rather a precautionary measure.

    NASA Chief Medical Officer Dr. James Polk explained the decision stemmed from persistent uncertainties regarding the crewmember’s condition rather than immediate danger. “We’re dealing with lingering risk and a lingering question as to what that diagnosis is,” Polk stated during the briefing. The affected astronaut, whose identity remains confidential, is reported in stable condition with no connection to station operations or injuries.

    Amit Kshatriya, NASA’s associate administrator, highlighted the significance of this milestone: “This is the first time we’ve done a controlled medical evacuation from the vehicle. The crew demonstrated exceptional professionalism in managing this unexpected medical situation, exactly as trained.”

    The Crew-11 mission launched from Kennedy Space Center on August 1, 2025, and was originally scheduled to conclude in early 2026 after approximately six months in orbit. Their premature return will necessitate adjustments to station operations, including the postponement of a planned 6.5-hour spacewalk intended for power system upgrades.

    NASA officials confirmed that Chris Williams, who arrived via Russian spacecraft, will maintain American presence aboard the station alongside Russian cosmonauts Sergey Kud-Sverchkov and Sergei Mikaev. The agency is evaluating potential schedule modifications for subsequent missions to minimize operational disruptions.

    The International Space Station, continuously occupied since November 2000, serves as a critical platform for scientific research advancing humanity’s capabilities for deep space exploration, including future missions to Mars. The station is scheduled for decommissioning after 2030, with planned atmospheric disposal over the remote Pacific Ocean region known as Point Nemo.

  • Astronaut’s ‘serious medical condition’ forces Nasa to end space station mission early

    Astronaut’s ‘serious medical condition’ forces Nasa to end space station mission early

    NASA has initiated an unprecedented early return of four International Space Station crew members, shortening their mission by approximately one month due to an undisclosed medical condition affecting one astronaut. The decision marks the first medical-related early evacuation in both the 24-year continuous habitation of the ISS and NASA’s 65-year human spaceflight history.

    The affected crew member, whose identity remains protected under medical privacy laws, is reported to be in stable condition. NASA officials emphasized this does not constitute an emergency evacuation, with Administrator Jared Isaacman stating, ‘We always prioritize astronaut health and safety above mission duration.’

    Crew-11 comprises NASA astronauts Zena Cardman (commander) and Mike Fincke (pilot), alongside mission specialists Kimiya Yui from Japan’s JAXA space agency and Russian cosmonaut Oleg Platonov. The team launched aboard a SpaceX Crew Dragon in August 2025 for what was intended to be a standard six-month orbital mission.

    Medical officer Dr. James Polk clarified the condition is unrelated to space operations or injury, though specifics remain confidential. The ISS’s onboard medical capabilities, including secure Earth-communication systems and basic treatment equipment, have facilitated remote consultation with ground-based physicians.

    While one American astronaut and two Russian cosmonauts will maintain station operations, space scientist Dr. Simeon Barber notes the reduced crew may delay scientific experiments and require focus on essential maintenance until replacement Crew-12 arrives next month. NASA expects to provide updated return timeline details within 48 hours.

  • NASA cuts space station mission short after an astronaut’s medical issue

    NASA cuts space station mission short after an astronaut’s medical issue

    NASA has initiated an accelerated return protocol for four International Space Station crew members following an onboard medical incident. The space agency announced Thursday that the multinational team—comprising American, Japanese, and Russian astronauts—will conclude their mission earlier than scheduled after an unspecified medical situation prompted mission controllers to cancel the year’s first planned spacewalk.

    While maintaining strict confidentiality regarding the crew member’s identity and specific medical condition, NASA confirmed the individual has stabilized and is receiving appropriate care. The affected astronaut is among the seven-person crew currently operating the orbiting laboratory, which includes personnel who arrived via SpaceX’s August launch and a separate Soyuz-launched trio scheduled to remain until summer.

    The early return affects NASA astronauts Zena Cardman and Mike Fincke, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency’s Kimiya Yui, and Roscosmos cosmonaut Oleg Platonov. Their premature departure necessitates rescheduling critical maintenance operations, including a canceled spacewalk intended to prepare for future solar panel installations to enhance the station’s power capacity.

    NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman praised the agency’s rapid response, stating: ‘I’m proud of the swift effort across the agency thus far to ensure the safety of our astronauts.’ This medical evacuation occurs as NASA continues long-term planning for the station’s eventual decommissioning, having contracted SpaceX to safely deorbit the facility by approximately 2030.

  • Nasa considers whether to bring sick crew member back to Earth

    Nasa considers whether to bring sick crew member back to Earth

    NASA is currently assessing the potential early return of Crew-11 from the International Space Station following the emergence of a medical issue affecting one unnamed crew member. While the affected astronaut remains in stable condition, the situation has already prompted the cancellation of a scheduled spacewalk and triggered comprehensive contingency planning.

    The four-person Crew-11 team, consisting of NASA astronauts Zena Cardman (commander) and Mike Fincke (pilot), along with Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency mission specialist Kimiya Yui and Russian cosmonaut Oleg Platonov, arrived at the orbital laboratory in August 2025 aboard a SpaceX Crew Dragon spacecraft. Their six-month mission was originally scheduled to conclude in late February 2026.

    NASA officials emphasize that mission safety remains the absolute priority as they evaluate all available options. ‘Safely conducting our missions is our highest priority, and we are actively evaluating all options, including the possibility of an earlier end to Crew-11’s mission,’ stated a NASA spokeswoman.

    The space station maintains comprehensive medical capabilities including equipment, supplies, and secure communication systems that enable private consultations between astronauts and Earth-based physicians. These systems allow for remote assessment and treatment guidance similar to terrestrial telehealth consultations.

    According to space scientist Dr. Simeon Barber of the Open University, any decision to return Crew-11 would involve bringing all four astronauts back simultaneously rather than leaving部分 crew members behind. Such an early departure would require the remaining three crew members – NASA astronaut Chris Williams and Russian cosmonauts Sergey Kud Sverchkov and Sergei Mikayev – to focus primarily on essential station operations rather than scientific research.

    The ISS, orbiting approximately 400 kilometers above Earth, would see some experimental work and maintenance tasks delayed until the arrival of the next scheduled crew if an early return is implemented. The complex engineering feat of the space station requires a minimum crew complement for optimal operation, and reduced staffing would necessitate prioritizing critical systems management over research activities.

  • US sighting of rare whale first recorded off Donegal ‘extraordinary’

    US sighting of rare whale first recorded off Donegal ‘extraordinary’

    In a groundbreaking discovery that has captivated marine biologists, an endangered North Atlantic right whale initially documented off Ireland’s County Donegal coast in 2024 has been resighted over 3,000 miles away in Massachusetts Bay. This remarkable transatlantic journey represents the first scientifically confirmed case of an individual whale being identified in both eastern and western North Atlantic waters.

    The identification was made possible through sophisticated photographic matching technology managed by the New England Aquarium, which maintains the comprehensive North Atlantic Right Whale Photo ID catalogue. Researchers from the US Center for Coastal Studies (CCS) initially spotted the whale during aerial surveillance operations in November 2025, with subsequent analysis confirming it was the same individual recorded near Slieve League, Ireland eighteen months earlier.

    Dr. Daniel Palacios of CCS described the finding as “extraordinary,” emphasizing how such encounters demonstrate both the species’ resilience and the critical importance of international scientific collaboration. With an estimated global population of merely 380 individuals, North Atlantic right whales rank among the planet’s most critically endangered marine mammals.

    This discovery challenges previous assumptions about the species’ migratory patterns and habitat utilization. Ryan Schosberg, the CCS researcher who co-spotted the whale, noted that the considerable distance between sightings underscores both the animals’ impressive mobility and significant gaps in scientific understanding of their behavior.

    Historical context reveals these whales were once prized targets for whalers due to their substantial blubber content, which fueled industrial machinery during the Revolution era. Today, they navigate heavily industrialized waters from Florida to Newfoundland, facing modern threats including ship strikes and fishing gear entanglements.

    Pádraig Whooley of the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group emphasized the exceptional rarity of such cross-basin identifications, noting that Ireland remains one of only four eastern North Atlantic nations with confirmed right whale sightings. This pioneering individual’s journey may potentially indicate new habitat opportunities that could offer crucial reprieve for this struggling population.

  • Astronauts experiment on lithium-ion batteries

    Astronauts experiment on lithium-ion batteries

    In a groundbreaking orbital experiment, astronauts aboard China’s Tiangong space station have successfully completed pioneering research examining how microgravity conditions affect the internal performance mechanisms of lithium-ion batteries. The Chinese Academy of Sciences’ Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics confirmed the completion of this innovative study on Wednesday.

    The research initiative, spearheaded by payload specialist Zhang Hongzhang of the Shenzhou XXI mission crew, leveraged his specialized expertise to execute complex technical operations in the unique space environment. The experiment represents a significant advancement in understanding electrochemical processes free from Earth’s gravitational influences.

    Unlike terrestrial laboratories where gravity constantly interacts with electric fields, the microgravity environment of space provides scientists with unprecedented opportunities to observe fundamental battery processes in isolation. The research specifically investigated ion transport mechanisms, insertion dynamics, and extraction processes without gravitational interference that typically complicates ground-based experiments.

    Zhang conducted real-time monitoring and captured detailed optical observations of lithium dendrite formation—microscopic, needle-like structures that pose significant safety risks by potentially causing short circuits in battery systems. His work documented the full progression of these phenomena through comprehensive imaging techniques.

    The findings are expected to overcome critical knowledge gaps regarding coupled gravity-electric field effects and provide foundational data for enhancing current spacecraft energy systems. This research holds particular importance for developing next-generation space batteries with improved energy capacity, extended service life, and enhanced safety protocols for future space missions.

    Lithium-ion batteries remain indispensable for modern space exploration due to their high energy density, reliability, and longevity. This experiment addresses growing scientific interest in microscopic electrochemical mechanisms, particularly how chemical distribution within electrolytes affects power output and operational lifespan in space environments.