A theoretical astrophysicist from the University of Kansas, Mikhail Medvedev, has potentially solved a nearly two-decade-old mystery regarding the “zebra” pattern seen in high-frequency radio pulses from the Crab Nebula. In his new study, Medvedev used observational data from the Crab Pulsar and applied wave optics to measure the density of the pulsar’s plasma—a gas of charged particles (electrons and positrons). By analyzing the fringe pattern in the electromagnetic pulses, he developed a method to gauge the plasma density, providing insights into this long-standing astronomical puzzle.
The enigma of the Crab Nebula’s ‘zebra’ pattern
A nearly two-decade-old mystery solved
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A magma cap beneath Yellowstone National Park
An eruption is not imminent.
Scientists have identified a magma cap beneath Yellowstone National Park, located about 2.4 miles (3.8 km) below the surface. This cap acts as a pressure-regulating layer, preventing magma from rising too quickly and reducing the likelihood of an eruption. The cap consists of molten silicate materials, supercritical water, and porous rock, which trap heat and gas within the volcanic system. Researchers used seismic imaging and advanced modeling to study its structure.
Novel material can convert CO₂ into fuel
Hybrid Tincone Material Enhances Stability and Electrochemical Performance
Researchers have developed a stable metalcone thin film for converting atmospheric CO₂ into methanol, a liquid fuel. By mildly annealing tincone at 250°C, they improved its stability in aqueous solutions while enhancing its electrochemical properties. This breakthrough overcomes a major challenge in using Metalcones for carbon reduction applications. The next step involves integrating this engineered material into real-world systems to assess its efficiency in CO₂ conversion. This innovation paves the way for more sustainable fuel production and advances in photoelectrochemical applications.
Martian Clues to Life? NASA Rover Finds Large Organic Molecules on...
Discovery of Hydrocarbons Strengthens Case for Ancient Habitability
NASA’s Curiosity rover has detected the largest organic molecules ever found on Mars—decane, undecane, and dodecane. These hydrocarbons, believed to be fragments of fatty acids, suggest that Mars' organic chemistry may have been more complex than previously thought. The findings support the possibility that ancient Mars had the right conditions for life. Scientists emphasize the need to bring samples back to Earth for deeper analysis, as Curiosity's instruments may not detect even larger, more complex molecules that could further reveal Mars’ potential for past life.
A cost-effective catalyst to revolutionize hydrogen production
A low-cost palladium-based nanosheet
Researchers from the Tokyo University of Science developed a new catalyst called bis(diimino)palladium coordination nanosheets (PdDI). These low-cost palladium-based nanosheets perform as well as platinum in producing hydrogen. Created using a simple synthesis process with minimal precious metals, the nanosheets reduce metal usage and lower hydrogen production costs.
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