To ancient astronomers, Theta Eridani was brighter for 1,000 years—now we know why
Theta Eridani appeared as one of the 13 brightest stars to ancient astronomers like Ptolemy and al-Sufi, but is significantly dimmer today. Researchers determined the star must have been much more luminous between the second century A.D. and A.D. 964 to match historical brightness records.
Read full story →Venus’s pale yellow clouds may hide something surprisingly dark
Scientists calculated that Venus's clouds' unidentified dark ultraviolet material absorbs light far more strongly than previously thought. This finding narrows possibilities for determining whether the mysterious substance is organic, inorganic, or something unexpected.
Scientists find water was fueling volcanoes 3 billion years ago
Water-rich crustal material sank into Earth's mantle more than three billion years ago through a process called "dripduction," fueling volcanic eruptions. Ancient rocks from Western Australia provided evidence that this water-delivery mechanism operated long before modern plate tectonics fully developed.
Scientists discover a hidden switch that shuts down inflammation
Scientists discovered a natural braking system that switches off inflammation and prevents harmful immune cell buildup. Boosting this pathway in people reduced inflammation-related immune changes and accelerated pain relief.