Solar System

Astronomers have detected Comet 41P/Tuttle-Giacobini-Kresák reversing its rotation direction, marking the first rapid such change observed in a celestial body. The 1-kilometer-wide comet slowed from a 20-hour spin in March 2017 to 46-60 hours two months later, then accelerated to about 14 hours by December. Researchers suggest outgassing from sublimating ice caused the reversal.

23 Mwezi wa tatu, 2026 Imeripotiwa na AI

Astronomers using the Hubble Space Telescope observed comet C/2025 K1 (ATLAS) shortly after it split into four fragments, thanks to a lucky scheduling change. The high-resolution images provide unprecedented detail on the event. Researchers noted an unexpected delay in the comet's brightening after the breakup.

A new study reveals that Mars, despite its small size, significantly influences Earth's orbital patterns that drive ice ages. Researchers simulated varying Mars's mass and found it affects key climate cycles. This discovery highlights the role of smaller planets in planetary climates.

20 Mwezi wa kumi na mbili, 2025 Imeripotiwa na AI

A fresh look at data from NASA's Cassini mission indicates that Saturn's largest moon, Titan, likely lacks a vast subsurface ocean and instead features a slushy interior with isolated pockets of liquid water. This finding challenges earlier assumptions and could reshape the search for life on icy worlds. Researchers published their results on December 17 in the journal Nature.