Earth Science
New tektites reveal ancient asteroid impact in South Australia
Researchers have uncovered a new field of 11-million-year-old tektites in South Australia, pointing to a massive asteroid impact whose crater remains undiscovered. These unique glass fragments differ chemically and geographically from known tektites, recording an event previously unknown to science. The finding highlights Earth's violent past and aids planetary defense efforts.
Breakup of supercontinent Nuna enabled complex life evolution
The breakup of the ancient supercontinent Nuna around 1.5 billion years ago reshaped Earth's surface, reducing volcanic carbon emissions and expanding shallow seas that fostered oxygen-rich environments. Scientists from the University of Sydney and the University of Adelaide link this tectonic event to the rise of early eukaryotic life. Their study challenges the notion of a stagnant 'Boring Billion' period in Earth's history.
Scientists discover new golden-tongued lizard in China
Researchers in China have identified a previously unknown species of mountain lizard in the upper Dadu River Valley within the Hengduan Mountains of Sichuan Province. Named Diploderma bifluviale, the lizard features a distinctive wheat-colored tongue and thrives in semi-arid shrublands at high elevations. This finding highlights the region's understudied biodiversity.
Scientists pinpoint tremors beneath Tanzania's Oldoinyo Lengai volcano
Researchers have traced tremor signals deep inside Tanzania's Oldoinyo Lengai volcano, locating them in three dimensions for the first time. The study reveals linked tremors at varying depths, providing insights into magma and gas movement. This unique carbonatite volcano's fluid, cool magma produced unexpected results that could improve eruption forecasting.