These 6 NASA images capture the beauty of the Universe of galaxies | See Pics
Our planet Earth is part of a solar system located in the Milky Way Galaxy. Many other galaxies are situated millions of light years away from our home. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has shared several images of our neighbouring galaxies and those located far beyond our reach.
Catch a glimpse of a few galaxies out of one hundred billion galaxies in our Universe with these NASA images.
NASA images of galaxies
The image captures the spiral arms of the nearby galaxy Messier 81
The image of nearby galaxy Messier 81 was captured by NASA's Spitzer Space Telescope. The galaxy is located in the northern constellation of Ursa Major (which also includes the Big Dipper). Skygazers who wish to enjoy the sight of this galaxy can spot this neighbour with the help of binoculars or a small telescope.
M81 is located at a distance of 12 million light-years. It was one of the first publicly released datasets soon after Spitzer's launch in August 2003.
The image was formed with the help of the data collected by the European Southern Observatory and the Atacama Pathfinder Experiment. Thousands of lines shown in the image are the magnetic fields observed by NASA's Stratospheric Observatory for Infrared Astronomy (SOFIA). These magnetic fields are shown as streamlines over an image of the galaxy taken at visible and submillimeter wavelengths by the European Southern Observatory and Atacama Pathfinder Experiment (orange).
The spectacular image of Cartwheel Galaxy is the result of intricate details captured by NASA's James Webb Space Telescope. The image reveals star formation and the galaxy’s central black hole. Webb’s powerful infrared gaze produced this detailed image of the Cartwheel and two smaller companion galaxies against a backdrop of many other galaxies.
View of neighbouring spiral galaxy Andromeda, also called M31,
The NASA image unveils a spectacular view of the neighbouring spiral galaxy Andromeda, also known as M31, in ultraviolet light. Scientists have formed this image with the inputs of 330 images from Swift’s Ultraviolet/Optical Telescope. Some 20,000 ultraviolet sources are visible in the image, including M32, a small galaxy in orbit around M31.
The view of field of galaxies known as Cosmos field.coloured dots are galaxies that host black holes emitting lower-energy X-rays.
Galactic Chaos: Our neighbouring galaxy is falling apart, scientists warn
Galactic Chaos: Our neighbouring galaxy is falling apart, scientists warn
Sometimes, even galaxies close to us face hard times. A quiet neighbour of the Milky Way, the Small Magellanic Cloud (SMC), appears to be falling apart. And scientists say they didn’t see it coming.
Pulled by Its Larger Companion, the LMC
The SMC is about 200,000 light-years from Earth. It’s a dwarf galaxy that orbits our Milky Way galaxy. But it now seems to be in real trouble. According to a new study published on April 10 in The Astrophysical Journal Supplement Series, another galaxy may be to blame.
Researchers believe the SMC is being pulled by the Large Magellanic Cloud (LMC). The LMC is SMC’s much bigger companion. The team says this gravitational tug could be slowly tearing the SMC apart.
Lead researcher Kengo Tachihara from Nagoya University, Japan, admitted their surprise. “At first, we thought our data had some error,” he said. “But when we looked again, the results were very clear.”
Stars Moving in Strange Directions
The team studied data from ESA’s retired Gaia spacecraft. They discovered that stars in the SMC were moving in opposite directions. “It’s as if something is pulling them apart,” Mr Tachihara explained.
Some stars were heading toward the LMC. Others were moving away from it. This suggests that the SMC might be slowly losing its shape. The researchers believe the LMC’s strong pull could be the reason.
That wasn’t the only surprise. The study found something else unusual. The large stars within the SMC are not rotating as expected. Normally, stars rotate around a galaxy’s centre. But in this case, that rotation seems to be missing.
What It Means for Our Galaxy’s History
The lack of rotation could affect what we know about the SMC. Mr Tachihara said it may change past calculations of galactic movements. This includes the history of the Milky Way, the SMC and the LMC.
“If there is no rotation, our models need revising,” he explained. It could mean we’ve misunderstood the SMC’s mass or past collisions.
The SMC and LMC are part of a group of about 30 nearby galaxies. The SMC is only 7,000 light-years wide, while the Milky Way spans 100,000 light-years. The SMC completes an orbit around the Milky Way every 1.5 billion years.
Despite its size, the SMC is very bright. It’s even visible to the naked eye from the Southern Hemisphere. Because of this, it gives scientists a rare chance to study galaxy behaviour.
Learning from a Neighbour We Can See
“We cannot see the Milky Way from the outside,” Mr Tachihara said. “But we can study nearby galaxies like the SMC and LMC in detail.”
He added that this study helps connect star formation with stellar motion. Watching these galaxies closely offers clues about how stars behave across time.
The SMC’s slow tearing apart may not be fast or dramatic. But it offers a deep insight into the life of galaxies. Even those in our own corner of the cosmos are not safe from change.
Hubble shares a beautiful new image of stunning star birth in a nearby galaxy
Some images make you stop and wonder. As the Hubble Space Telescope marks 35 years in space, one such image of a vibrant star nursery has re-emerged with breathtaking clarity. The European Space Agency (ESA) has released a fresh look at the young star cluster NGC 346, combining old favourites with new data and better processing.
NGC 346 sits inside the Small Magellanic Cloud, a satellite galaxy of the Milky Way. Located nearly 200,000 light-years away, it lies in the constellation Tucana. The Small Magellanic Cloud has fewer metals than our galaxy. That means conditions there are similar to the early universe.
Hubble's ultraviolet, optical, and infrared perspectives are all combined in the new image. It depicts more than 2,500 new stars developing in this crowded area. Among them are enormous stars that shine a brilliant blue glow and are far heavier than our Sun. Dark dust streaks and brilliant pink clouds create beautiful forms all around them. These are sculpted by the cluster’s strongest stars.
This dazzl
The stars here are shaping their surroundings. Their powerful winds and radiation are carving a bubble into the nearby nebula. That glowing cloud is named N66 and is the brightest H II region in the Small Magellanic Cloud. H II regions glow from the energy of young, hot stars. However, after just a few million years, their brightness fades.
New facets of this story have been made visible by Hubble. Scientists now have a better understanding of how stars form in far-flung regions of the universe because of its long-term mission. And the scene becomes even more breathtaking with each successive glance.ing NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope image features the young star cluster NGC 346. (Image: NASA)
This dazzling NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope image features the young star cluster NGC 346. (Image: NASA)
Hubble’s sharp vision helped scientists track star movement. Researchers studied two sets of data taken 11 years apart. They found that many stars are spiralling towards the cluster’s centre. A gas stream from outside fuels star birth there, creating a whirlpool-like effect.
Scientists discover four Earth-like planets orbiting Barnard's Star
Scientists discover four Earth-like planets orbiting Barnard's Star
In the first for the exoplanetary community, scientists have announced four new small Earth-like planets around Barnard's Star, just six light-years from our world. The four planets are all smaller than Earth but share one thing in common: all of them are rocky, similar to Earth.
The discovery of these four tiny, terrestrial planets surrounding Barnard's Star is a significant leap for exoplanetary science and the search for life beyond Earth in the universe. While these planets are not able to sustain life due to the adversarial conditions there, they are indicative of the types of planets that exist within our galactic community and what possibilities exist for life in the galaxy. With our technology and knowledge improving, finds like this bring us one step closer to solving the ancient enigma: Are we alone in the universe?
Four Earth-like planets discovered orbiting Barnard's star
Barnard's Star is a red dwarf and our closest single star to Earth, other than the stars of the Alpha Centauri system. Due to its proximity, it is a first option for study by astronomers since planets orbiting around it may hold the key to conditions in our universe.
The planets near Barnard's Star are interesting in the sense that they are quite similar to the Earth, especially in terms of their composition. This does make them very attractive to scientists even though they are small compared to the Earth.
Smallest exoplanets detected via radial velocity method
The planets, b, c, d, and e, are extremely small with a mass that is 20% to 30% as massive as that of the Earth. The planets are the smallest ones yet to be found by the radial velocity technique, which is to say that the astronomers take measurements of the "wobble" or the gravitational tug a planet exerts on a star. The method allows researchers to infer the presence of planets from observations of very slight movements of the star produced by gravitational pulls of the planets when moving in circles around the star.
Advanced technology enables detection of small exoplanets
Advanced astronomical equipment facilitated the discovery. Two basic technologies were crucial: the MAROON-X instrument on the Gemini North telescope in Hawaii and the ESPRESSO spectrograph on Chile's Very Large Telescope. These technologies enabled researchers to measure very small variations in the light being emitted by Barnard's Star. These result from the gravitational forces provided by the planets, although these signals are far too weak and easily drowned out with noise by their respective stars.
Rocky planets near Barnard's Star are too hot for life but vital for scientific study
The planets revolve around Barnard's Star in closely grouped radii. The inner planet takes more than two days to orbit, and the outer planet seven days to circulate around it. This would lead one to assume that the worlds are highly likely to be too hot to harbor life since they are much closer to their star compared to how close Earth is to the Sun.
This is not the sole reason, though. Their rocky composition (similar to that of the Earth) is a significant factor to consider. Rocky planets are also crucial in the quest for life beyond Earth in the universe since if circumstances are right, they will harbor life, if any.
Barnard’s star planets: Understanding habitability in other star systems
Though these planets are not expected to support life because of their closeness to Barnard's Star, they should be taken into account when searching for alien life. Low-mass rocky planets—those that fall within the "habitable zone" of their star (that distance range wherein liquid water could exist)—are good candidates for life. Even though these specific planets themselves do not fall under this categorization, the discovery of these planets contributes to the proof required in the future to be qualified for the pursuit of life elsewhere in the universe beyond our home planet Earth.
The research, published in The Astrophysical Journal Letters, was conducted by University of Chicago undergraduate Ritvik Basant and an international group of researchers. The discovery is one step toward understanding more about our cosmic neighborhood and hints at the possibility in the future to look for distant planets that may have Earth-like features, for example, having low mass and being rocky.
Do you love avocados? Shocking side effects you might not know
Do you love avocados? Shocking side effects you might not knowProvided by Deepak Kumar blogs
Avocado popularity has been growing in India over the years, mainly among health-conscious urban consumers. Earlier, avocados were considered exotic and hardly found in the markets. They are now available in most supermarkets, restaurants, and online grocery stores. They are considered a "superfood" that contains healthy fats, vitamins, and antioxidants. The increasing popularity of avocado-based dishes like smoothies, salads, and avocado toast through social media trends has added to the demand.
Avocados have been long known as a nutritional powerhouse, rich in healthy fats, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They have become a staple on toast, in smoothies, and as the star ingredient in guacamole. While avocados are known to have many health benefits, they are not without their potential downsides.
Shocking side effects of avocado that do more harm than good
Although rare, some individuals experience allergic reactions to avocados. Symptoms can range from mild itching and swelling in the mouth to severe reactions like difficulty breathing or anaphylaxis.
Avocados are rich in fiber, which is usually a good thing for digestive health. However, taking too much fiber at one time may be overwhelming to the digestive system, causing bloating, gas, or diarrhea. This is especially true for people who suddenly increase their avocado intake. Moderation is key; a serving size of about one-third of an avocado is usually enough to reap the benefits without upsetting your stomach.
While avocados are often promoted as a weight-loss-friendly food, their high calorie and fat content can work against your goals if consumed in excess. A single medium avocado contains about 240 calories and 22 grams of fat. Overeating them—especially when combined with other calorie-dense foods—can contribute to weight gain.
Few people realize that avocados can interfere with certain medications. For example, avocados are high in vitamin K, which plays a role in blood clotting. This can counteract the effects of blood-thinning medications like warfarin, potentially putting you at risk for blood clots.
Unlike an allergy, avocado intolerance involves the digestive system rather than the immune system. People with intolerance may experience stomach pain, nausea, or diarrhea after eating avocados. This reaction is caused by the body’s inability to properly digest certain compounds in the fruit. Keeping a food diary can help identify if avocados are a trigger for you.
Avocados are an excellent source of potassium
, a mineral that helps regulate blood pressure and support heart health. However, too much potassium can be harmful, especially for individuals with kidney issues. Excess potassium in the bloodstream can lead to hyperkalemia, a condition that causes symptoms like irregular heartbeat, muscle weakness, and in severe cases, cardiac arrest. If you’ve been advised to limit potassium in your diet, be cautious with your avocado consumption.
Avocados have thick skin
which protects against certain pesticides and bacteria. Still, improper handling and storage lead to contamination risks. The US FDA has found listeria bacteria on the skin of avocados. To minimize your exposure, always wash the avocado well before cutting into it so as not to transfer bacteria from the skin to the inside flesh.
What Archaeology Reveals About India’s Ancient Pre-Aryan Past
India’s history is a vast tapestry woven with diverse cultures, civilizations, and peoples, many of whom predate what we now recognize as the dominant Aryan culture. For centuries, historians, archaeologists, and geneticists have sought to trace the origins of India's first inhabitants, uncovering the rich legacies they left behind. The story of these early peoples, whose societies, cultures, and beliefs laid the foundation for India's development, offers profound insights into the evolution of this ancient civilization.
The Earliest Settlers: The Ancient Ancestral South Indians (AASI)
homo sapiens
India’s first inhabitants, often referred to as the Ancient Ancestral South Indians (AASI), have been present on the subcontinent for over 65,000 years, migrating from Africa. Genetic studies suggest that these early populations moved along coastal routes, primarily through the Arabian Sea, and settled primarily in Southern India. They were hunter-gatherers who adapted to the diverse geography of the region. Evidence of their presence includes prehistoric cave paintings in sites like Bhimbetka (Madhya Pradesh), which provide a glimpse into their way of life and spiritual practices.
Genetic research further reveals that the AASI’s legacy endures in contemporary populations, especially among indigenous communities such as the Andamanese tribes and Dravidian-speaking groups in the south.
Neolithic Revolution: Transition to Settled Societies
Neolithic Revolution
Around 10,000 years ago, the Neolithic Revolution marked a transformative shift in India, as societies began transitioning from nomadic lifestyles to settled agricultural practices. Archaeological evidence from Mehrgarh, dating back to 7000–2500 BCE (present-day Balochistan, Pakistan), shows some of the earliest examples of animal domestication, wheat and barley cultivation, and pottery production.
In Southern India, sites like Piklihal and Hallur reveal evidence of millet cultivation and cattle husbandry, marking the rise of agrarian societies. The technological advances of this period, reflected in polished stone tools, signify an era of innovation and adaptation.
The Indus Valley Civilization: Early Urbanization
Indus Valley Civilization
By 2600 BCE, the Indus Valley Civilization (IVC) emerged, becoming one of the world’s earliest urban cultures. Spanning present-day Pakistan, India, and Afghanistan, the IVC had sophisticated urban centers, such as Mohenjo-Daro, Harappa, and Dholavira. These cities featured advanced urban planning, including grid-like streets, drainage systems, and uniform brick construction.
The IVC people were also skilled traders, with evidence of commerce stretching as far as Mesopotamia, Oman, and Central Asia. The legacy of their culture is visible in the many terracotta figurines, pottery, jewelry, and early forms of religious symbols discovered at these sites, including reverence for fertility and natural elements—practices that may have influenced later religious developments in India.
The Role of Indigenous Tribes
Indigenous Tribes
India's early history was shaped by numerous smaller tribal communities that maintained a close connection with nature and practiced traditional forms of agriculture. Groups such as the Gonds, Bhils, and Santhals preserved oral histories and traditions that played a significant role in India's ethnolinguistic diversity.
The Dravidian languages, spoken predominantly in southern India, are thought to have originated from the pre-Aryan linguistic traditions of these indigenous tribes. Despite the challenges posed by external influences, these tribes have remained resilient in preserving their cultural heritage, which remains a vital component of India’s identity today.
Genetic and Cultural Legacy
Modern genetic studies show that India’s population is the result of a blend of diverse ancestral groups:
Ancestral South Indians (ASI): The descendants of the AASI populations, as well as migrants from West Asia, who contributed to the gene pool of Southern India.
Ancestral North Indians (ANI): The descendants of populations that migrated into the region, bringing Indo-European languages and other cultural influences, though these groups were indigenous to the Indian subcontinent rather than originating from elsewhere.
This genetic intermingling has shaped the contemporary demographic structure of India. Culturally, it reflects in the coexistence of ancient Dravidian traditions alongside later Vedic influences.
Early Religious and Social Structures
Social Structures
The early inhabitants of India practiced forms of animism, worshipping natural forces like trees, rivers, and animals. Sacred groves, water bodies, and fertility symbols were central to their religious practices. These early forms of reverence for nature left a lasting imprint on later Hinduism, which continues to honor natural elements and animal deities.
The social structures of these communities were often egalitarian, with roles based on necessity and merit rather than rigid hierarchies. This contrasts with the more stratified social systems that emerged in later periods, such as the caste system.
The Indigenous Contributions to India's Evolution
The foundational contributions of India’s original inhabitants are evident in many aspects of modern life—from tribal art forms like Warli paintings to agricultural methods and spiritual practices. These influences have shaped India’s cultural, linguistic, and social fabric for millennia.
Preserving the traditions, languages, and lifestyles of these indigenous groups is essential for maintaining the rich diversity that characterizes India today. Efforts to protect and promote tribal cultures and heritage are crucial for ensuring that these unique legacies endure for future generations.
India’s first inhabitants played an essential role in the country’s development long before external migrations took place. Their advances in agriculture, urbanization, art, and spirituality laid the groundwork for a civilization that has spanned thousands of years. Recognizing and preserving the history of these early communities helps us understand the complexity of India’s cultural heritage and underscores the importance of safeguarding its diverse traditions.
India successfully tests vertically launched short range missile with low altitude capability
VL-SRSAM being test-fired from the ITR off the Odisha coast on Wednesday (Photo | Special arrangement)
BHUBANESWAR: India on Wednesday successfully flight tested the vertically launched short range surface to air missile (VL-SRSAM) from a defence test facility off the Odisha coast.
Indigenously developed by DRDO, the missile was test-fired from a land-based vertical launcher positioned at the Integrated Test Range (ITR) against a high-speed aerial target at very close range and low altitude.
Defence sources said the canisterised missile neutralised the aerial target at a very low altitude. The missile validated the near-boundary-low altitude capability of the missile system.
“The target was completely destroyed by the missile executing the high turn rate required for engaging targets at very close range, and establishing the missile’s agility, reliability and pin-point accuracy,” the Ministry of Defence (MoD) said in a statement.
The missile was test-fired by DRDO in collaboration with the Indian Navy with all weapon system elements deployed in combat configuration. It was a part of a user associate trial to validate multiple updated elements of the weapon system.
“The elements, including the missile with indigenous radio frequency seeker, multi-function radar and weapon control system, have performed as per expectations. The performance of the system was validated by the flight data captured by various range instruments developed by ITR Chandipur,” said a defence official.
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