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Beneath the surface of our planet lies one of Earth’s greatest enigmas: the inner core. Composed primarily of iron and nickel, this hot, solid sphere is approximately 70% the size of the moon. Recent studies have indicated a surprising reversal in the core’s spin, and now, scientists have uncovered evidence of changes in its shape.
These alterations in the inner core’s structure were deduced from seismic activity of sufficient intensity to reach the core. Fortunately, this shape-shifting is not expected to have a direct impact on life on Earth. However, over time, modifications to this innermost layer could potentially influence the planet’s magnetic field, crucial for shielding our world from solar radiation and guiding the migrations of various animal species.
Secrets of the Sea
Loggerhead sea turtles embark on remarkable journeys across vast oceans, guided by a mysterious superpower that leads them to nesting and feeding grounds without any visible landmarks. These turtles utilize Earth’s magnetic field as a navigational tool in two key ways: a magnetic map aids in tracking locations, while a magnetic compass orients them along the correct path.
A recent study has revealed that loggerheads actually commit magnetic fields to memory, aiding them in locating food sources post-migration. Remarkably, juvenile loggerheads in captivity exhibit a unique “dance” in response to magnetic cues that trigger memories of past feeding locations—a fascinating sight that must be seen to be believed.
Defying Gravity
Astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams, who have been aboard the International Space Station since June following Boeing Starliner’s inaugural crewed test flight, may be scheduled for an earlier return to Earth. NASA is targeting a mid-March return flight for the duo amidst internal changes within the agency, prompted by concerns regarding directives from the previous administration on diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility communications.
NASA has emphasized the vital role of the Space Launch System megarocket in the Artemis moon landing initiative, despite recent layoffs associated with the program announced by Boeing. Concurrently, Jeff Bezos’ space company Blue Origin revealed plans for significant layoffs following the successful debut of its inaugural orbital rocket, New Glenn.
Exploring the Cosmos
Astronomers have detected the highest-energy cosmic “ghost particle” ever recorded in an unexpected location: the depths of the Mediterranean Sea. The KM3NeT Collaboration has been constructing an extensive network of sensors in the deep sea near Toulon, France, and Capo Passero, Italy, over the past decade to detect neutrinos, enigmatic particles capable of traversing any form of matter and carrying information about the most energetic phenomena in the universe.
When an exceptionally powerful neutrino interacted with the partially completed ARCA detector off the coast of Italy, it triggered sensors
In Poland, there is a suggestion that early Europeans may have partaken in a rather gruesome practice – dining on the brains of their enemies. A recent study involved the examination of remains from the Magdalenian culture, dating back to 11,000 to 17,000 years ago. The bones displayed marks and cuts indicating the removal of bone marrow and brain matter. While previous research proposed that cannibalism was common among the Magdalenians, viewed as a funerary rite, this particular discovery points to a more sinister explanation. Archaeologist Francesc Marginedas of the Catalan Institute of Human Paleoecology and Social Evolution in Spain noted that the evidence suggests this was a case of warfare rather than ritualistic behavior.
In a separate intriguing discovery, a new species of zombie spider fungus has been identified – Gibellula attenboroughii. This fungus has the ability to lure cave spiders out of their dwellings before ultimately killing them, as revealed by a recent study conducted by Tim Fogg. The revelation of this fungus occurred when a television crew was filming inside an abandoned gunpowder storeroom at Northern Ireland’s Castle Espie Wetland Centre in 2021. Observing an orb weaver spider exhibiting unusual behavior alerted the crew to something amiss. Gibellula attenboroughii infects and eliminates the spiders, then utilizes their bodies to spread its spores. Scientists are currently delving into the mechanisms through which this fungus alters and influences the brains of spiders to control them.
Delve deeper into the realm of recent discoveries with your morning cup of beverage:
– Astronomers have identified a colossal radio jet that originated during the early epochs of the universe, marking it as the most extensive celestial object of its kind in the distant cosmos.
– Unprovoked shark attacks saw a significant decrease worldwide in 2024, prompting experts to investigate the reasons behind this decline.
– The remnants of an ancient basilica, situated at the former heart of Roman London, were unearthed in the basement of a high-rise during construction work in the British capital.
– The James Webb Space Telescope is set to focus its powerful gaze on asteroid 2024 YR4 to ascertain whether this space rock poses a legitimate threat of colliding with Earth in 2032.
If you’ve enjoyed these intriguing revelations, fret not, for there’s more to come. Stay in the loop by signing up here to receive the next edition of Wonder Theory in your inbox. This captivating newsletter, crafted by CNN Space and Science writers Ashley Strickland, Katie Hunt, and Jackie Wattles, explores wonders ranging from planets beyond our solar system to ancient world discoveries. For additional CNN news and newsletters, simply create an account on CNN.com.
