New Vector Encryption Scheme with 4D Hyperchaos and SM4 Algorithm

Researchers have developed a novel encryption scheme for vector maps that combines a four-dimensional (4D) hyperchaotic system with the SM4 block cipher algorithm. This method aims to improve security and efficiency in protecting geographic and cartographic data, which are increasingly vulnerable to cyberattacks due to their growing use in critical applications such as navigation, urban planning, and defense systems. The proposal addresses the limitations of traditional encryption methods, which are often unsuitable for the complex and high-volume nature of vector data. The proposed scheme uses the 4D hyperchaotic system to generate complex random sequences that are employed in the diffusion and permutation phases of encryption, thereby increasing resistance to statistical and brute-force attacks. These chaotic sequences are intrinsically sensitive to initial conditions, making them ideal for generating robust encryption keys. Subsequently, the SM4 algorithm, a symmetric encryption standard widely adopted in China, is integrated to provide an additional layer of security and efficiency in processing the encrypted data. The combination of both elements allows for nonlinear transformation and effective dispersion of information. Security and performance test results demonstrate that the scheme exhibits high key sensitivity, strong resistance to differential and statistical attacks, and a good ability to conceal the original vector map information. The distribution of encrypted pixels, information entropy, and correlation between adjacent pixels have been evaluated, showing values that exceed standard security thresholds. This advance could have significant implications for the protection of critical infrastructure and data privacy in an increasingly digitized world dependent on geospatial information.

SEIR Model with PINN for Global Epidemic Stability

Researchers have developed a new framework based on the Lyapunov method and Physics-Informed Neural Networks (PINN) to analyze the global stability of SEIR (Susceptible-Exposed-Infected-Recovered) epidemiological models. This approach allows for studying how educational interventions influence the dynamics of infectious diseases, providing a robust tool for predicting the long-term behavior of an epidemic and the effectiveness of non-pharmacological control strategies. The SEIR model is fundamental in epidemiology for describing the progression of a disease within a population. The novelty of this work lies in the integration of PINNs, which are neural networks trained to solve differential equations, with Lyapunov theory, a mathematical method for determining the stability of dynamic systems. This not only allows for simulating the evolution of the epidemic but also ensures the global stability of the disease-free equilibrium point, i.e., the system's ability to return to a state without infection. The application of this framework focuses on evaluating the impact of educational interventions, such as awareness campaigns or public health programs, on reducing disease transmission. By incorporating these interventions as parameters into the model, researchers can quantify their effect on the basic reproduction number (R0) and the overall epidemic dynamics. This type of analysis is crucial for designing more efficient public health policies tailored to different social contexts. This advance offers a promising methodology for epidemiological modeling, combining the power of neural networks with the mathematical robustness of Lyapunov theory. The results could guide health authorities in implementing mitigation strategies by providing a deeper understanding of how educational interventions can contribute to the eradication or sustained control of infectious diseases. Future research is expected to explore the application of this framework to other more complex epidemiological models and different types of interventions.

Individual iron atoms catalyze hydrogenation on interstellar grains

A recent study has shown that individual iron atoms can act as efficient catalysts in the hydrogenation of carbon monosulfide (CS) on surfaces simulating interstellar dust grains. This finding is crucial for understanding the formation of complex molecules in the interstellar medium (ISM), where gas-phase reactions are insufficient to explain the observed abundance of certain chemical species. Heterogeneous catalysis on the surface of dust grains is considered a key mechanism for the synthesis of prebiotic organic molecules in space. The researchers used an experimental approach that mimicked the low-temperature and vacuum conditions of space, employing silicate dust grain analogs. They observed that the presence of isolated iron atoms on the grain surface facilitated the sequential addition of hydrogen atoms to carbon monosulfide, forming molecules such as HCS, H₂CS, and eventually CH₄ and H₂S. This process is analogous to catalysis on Earth but occurs in an extremely dilute and cold environment, highlighting the catalytic efficiency of iron even under these extreme conditions. The relevance of this work lies in its ability to explain the formation of more complex organic molecules in the ISM, which are the building blocks of life. Transition metal-catalyzed hydrogenation, such as by iron, could be a fundamental step on the path towards the formation of prebiotic molecules. Furthermore, the study suggests that the abundance of iron in space, a common element in dust grains, could play a more significant role than previously thought in astrophysical chemistry. Future research could explore the catalytic activity of other transition metals and their impact on the molecular diversity of the universe.

Quantum Information Education, Key to the International Quantum Year

In anticipation of the upcoming International Year of Quantum Science and Technology in 2025, a Resource Letter has been published compiling the growing field of research in quantum information science and engineering (QISE) education. This document is primarily designed as a guide for educators interested in beginning to teach QISE using research-based pedagogical methods, as well as for disciplinary-based education researchers (DBER) wishing to venture into this area. The Resource Letter covers a wide range of topics crucial for QISE education. It includes a delineation of the QISE education field, research on student reasoning in this area, and research-based and inspired curricular materials, ranging from high school to postgraduate levels. It also details tools for research-based assessment, simulation and gamification resources, and methods for integrating discussions about the social and ethical implications of quantum technologies into the classroom. The initiative underscores the importance of robust and well-founded education in QISE to address the challenges and leverage the opportunities presented by the second quantum revolution. By providing a roadmap for educators and researchers, this Resource Letter seeks to standardize and improve teaching practices, ensuring that future generations are equipped to contribute to the advancement of quantum science and technology.

NASA's Artemis II Mission Investigations Continue on Earth

Following the successful splashdown of the Artemis II crew in the Pacific Ocean on April 10, after their record-breaking mission around the Moon, NASA's scientific teams have continued data collection and analysis of observations obtained during the test flight. The results of these scientific investigations are crucial for ensuring the safety of human deep space exploration. The Artemis II mission, although uncrewed, was a fundamental step to validate the Orion spacecraft and Space Launch System (SLS) rocket systems before future missions with astronauts. The collected data ranges from the performance of propulsion and navigation systems to environmental conditions inside the capsule, including radiation exposure and life support parameters. This post-flight analysis allows for the identification of possible improvements and ensures that future crewed missions will have maximum reliability and safety. The primary objective of these investigations is to support the planning and execution of Artemis III and subsequent missions, which aim to establish a sustainable human presence on the Moon and, eventually, pave the way for the exploration of Mars. The information obtained from Artemis II is vital for understanding the operational and health challenges that astronauts will face, enabling engineers and scientists to develop countermeasures and optimize procedures for future lunar and interplanetary expeditions.

Physical Models Outperform AI in Predicting Extreme Weather Events

Models based on physical principles continue to be superior to artificial intelligence (AI) models for predicting extreme weather events. The main limitation of AI lies in its dependence on historical training data; if an event is unprecedented in this data, AI models struggle to forecast it accurately. This finding underscores the fundamental importance of understanding the underlying physics in climate modeling, especially in the face of a changing climate where unprecedented phenomena are increasingly likely. Physical models, in contrast, build their predictions from equations describing atmospheric and oceanic processes, such as fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, and radiation transfer. This approach allows them to simulate conditions that have never been directly observed, extrapolating from the fundamental laws of nature. Although AI has proven very effective in identifying patterns and optimizing processes within known ranges, its ability to generalize to completely new scenarios is limited, making it less robust for predicting climatic "black swans." This analysis suggests that, while AI can complement and improve certain aspects of climate modeling (e.g., in data assimilation or bias correction), it cannot replace the physical basis for predicting extreme events. To address the challenges of climate change and its unpredictable consequences, it is crucial to continue investing in the development and improvement of detailed physical models, which are the only ones capable of offering reliable prospective insights in historically unprecedented situations.

Non-Hermiticity Amplifies Charge Correlations in Topological Models

Researchers have explored the non-Hermitian and interacting Su-Schrieffer-Heeger (SSH) model to understand the relationship between topology and charge ordering. Using a real-space topological marker, charge correlations, and the many-body complex spectrum, they have mapped the phase diagram under periodic and open boundary conditions. The study reveals that the topological marker remains a robust indicator of non-Hermitian topological phases, even in the presence of interactions, and consistently signals their collapse at the onset of a charge density wave (CDW). The work demonstrates that non-Hermiticity intensifies interaction effects in the system. Although changes are moderate under periodic boundary conditions, open boundary conditions lead to a notable amplification of alternating charge correlations near exceptional points. This phenomenon is due to the accumulation of low-energy states in the vicinity of these exceptional points, which in turn favors electronic instabilities and reinforces the tendency for charge density wave formation. This finding suggests new avenues for manipulating and controlling the properties of quantum materials. The ability of non-Hermiticity to enhance interactions could be key in designing future devices with improved electronic or topological properties. Understanding how non-Hermiticity influences the stability of topological phases and the emergence of charge orderings is crucial for condensed matter physics and quantum materials engineering.

Controlled Burns to Mitigate Fires in Australia's Northern Territory

In the fire-prone ecosystems of Australia's Northern Territory, controlled burns are employed as a preventive strategy. This technique aims to reduce the severity of fires that might occur later in the season by managing the accumulation of combustible material and altering vegetation structure. The practice of prescribed burning is a landscape management tool used to mimic natural fire regimes or to protect areas of high ecological or human value. By conducting low-intensity burns under controlled conditions, the probability of catastrophic wildfires, which are more difficult to contain and cause much greater environmental and socioeconomic damage, is reduced. This approach is based on an understanding of fire ecology and fuel dynamics in these ecosystems. The planning and execution of controlled burns require detailed knowledge of meteorological conditions, topography, and vegetation type to ensure that the fire achieves its mitigation objective without getting out of control. It is a common strategy in regions with dry seasonal climates and fire-adapted vegetation, as is the case in much of Australia.

Honeycomb construction reveals geometry-dependent developmental pathways

Researchers have discovered that the way bees construct their honeycombs is intrinsically linked to the geometry of the foundation they work on. This finding, which combines biological observation with principles of materials physics, suggests that the formation of the characteristic hexagonal honeycomb structures is not merely programmed behavior, but an adaptive response to the initial environmental conditions. The study opens new avenues for understanding self-organization in biological systems and the optimization of natural structures. Traditionally, it has been assumed that the efficiency of the hexagon in packing and mechanical strength were the primary reasons for its prevalence in honeycombs. However, this work delves into the developmental mechanisms, showing how worker bees adjust their construction process. Scientists designed foundations with different curvatures and angles, observing how bees initiated and propagated cells. It was found that small variations in the starting geometry could significantly alter the growth trajectory of the honeycomb, influencing the orientation and size of the resulting cells. The results indicate that the interaction between bee behavior and the physical properties of wax, along with the geometric constraints imposed by the foundation, is crucial. This self-organization process, where simple local rules give rise to complex and efficient structures, has implications beyond biology. It could inspire new designs in materials engineering and robotics, where the ability to build adaptive structures from basic components is a key objective. Future research could explore how other environmental factors, such as temperature or resource availability, modulate these geometric developmental pathways.

New bounds for the pairing gap in neutron stars

Researchers have significantly refined the estimation of the color-flavor locked (CFL) pairing gap in dense neutron star matter, a crucial parameter for understanding their internal structure. Using Bayesian inference and current astrophysical observations, the study establishes a value for the CFL pairing gap $\Delta_{\rm CFL}^{*}$ of $28^{+23}_{-20}$ MeV, with a 95% credibility upper limit of approximately 51 MeV. This new bound is three times more restrictive than previous ones and challenges most existing microscopic models, suggesting that pairing power corrections contribute only a small percentage to 2.6 GeV. The equation of state (EOS) model employed combines a Gaussian process parametrization with sampled hyperparameters for neutron star densities, and a feed-forward neural network representation with boundary constraints extending to perturbative quantum chromodynamics (pQCD) densities. This approach maintains non-parametric flexibility and allows for efficient nested sampling. The matching with the pQCD+CFL prediction at a baryonic chemical potential $\mu_B = 2.6$ GeV was key to obtaining these estimates. In addition to the CFL pairing gap, the study has also established a limit for the N$^3$LO constant $c_0$ in pQCD, a value previously poorly known. It has been determined that $c_0 = -28^{+5}_{-7}$, using a loose prior derived from the convergence analysis of the N$^3$LO pressure. These results are fundamental for improving our understanding of dense matter under extreme conditions and for refining theoretical models of neutron stars, opening new avenues for future research in the physics of compact nuclear matter.

Wildfire Smoke Increases Ozone Pollution in the U.S.

A recent NASA-funded study has revealed that wildfires have significantly contributed to the increase in ground-level ozone pollution across much of the contiguous United States over the past decade. This phenomenon generates unhealthy air even in areas far from active flames, extending the impact of fires well beyond their immediate location. Tropospheric ozone, unlike stratospheric ozone which protects us from ultraviolet radiation, is an atmospheric pollutant harmful to human health and ecosystems. It forms from photochemical reactions of nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the presence of sunlight. The study suggests that wildfire smoke contributes a considerable amount of these precursors, exacerbating ozone formation in the lower atmosphere. This finding underscores the need to consider wildfires not only as a source of fine particulate matter but also as a relevant factor in the atmospheric chemistry that leads to ozone formation. The implications of this study are important for public health and air quality policy formulation, especially in a context of increasing frequency and intensity of wildfires due to climate change.

NASA's MAVEN Mission Concludes After More Than a Decade at Mars

NASA's Mars Atmosphere and Volatile Evolution (MAVEN) mission has concluded its operations after more than eleven years in orbit around Mars. Initially designed for a one-year primary mission, MAVEN far exceeded its planned lifespan, operating for an additional decade. The last communication with the spacecraft was recorded on December 6, at which point an unexpected signal loss occurred, marking the end of its contribution to the study of the Martian atmosphere. MAVEN was the first mission specifically dedicated to observing the Martian atmosphere and its evolution over time. Its primary objective was to understand how Mars lost much of its atmosphere, transforming from a potentially habitable planet with liquid water on its surface to its current cold, arid state. The data collected by MAVEN have been crucial for unraveling atmospheric escape processes, such as the interaction of the solar wind with the red planet's upper atmosphere and ionosphere. Key findings from MAVEN include detailed measurements of the escape rate of atmospheric gases into space, the detection of ultraviolet auroras on Mars, and the characterization of interactions between the planet and the solar wind. This data has allowed scientists to reconstruct Mars' climatic history and better understand the factors that determine planetary habitability. Although the mission has concluded, MAVEN's vast data archive will continue to be an invaluable resource for future research on planetary evolution and astrobiology.

Sentinel-6 Michael Freilich Satellite Detects El Niño Precursor in the Pacific

Sea level height data collected between March and May 2026 by the international Sentinel-6 Michael Freilich satellite has revealed a significant phenomenon in the Pacific Ocean. A displacement of warmer, higher-sea-level water has been observed moving from the western Pacific towards the coasts of Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. This event is a clear indication of a warm Kelvin wave, a well-known precursor to the El Niño climate phenomenon. Oceanic Kelvin waves are gravity waves that propagate eastward along the equator, carrying temperature and sea level anomalies. The detection of this warm Kelvin wave by Sentinel-6 Michael Freilich is crucial for monitoring and predicting El Niño, a climate pattern that has significant global impacts on weather, fisheries, and agriculture. The satellite's ability to precisely measure sea surface height allows scientists to track these phenomena with valuable lead time. This finding underscores the importance of satellite Earth observation missions for understanding our planet's complex climate systems. The information provided by Sentinel-6 Michael Freilich, designed to measure ocean surface topography with millimeter precision, is fundamental for improving climate models and seasonal projections, enabling better preparation for the effects of El Niño in affected regions.

New Thermodynamics for Kerr-Newman-NUT-AdS$_4$ Black Holes

Researchers have formulated a new thermodynamic description for a complex class of black holes, the Kerr-Newman-NUT-AdS$_4$. This formulation introduces the NUT charge parameters, which are not traditionally additional metric parameters, as thermodynamic response variables. Specifically, two "secondary hairs" are defined: a rotation-like variable $J_n = mn/K^2$ and a charge-like variable $N = n/\sqrt{K}$. These, along with the electric charge, pressure, angular momentum, and string tensions, allow for a more complete description of the black hole's thermodynamic state. The study has achieved a compact formula for the squared mass, of the Christodoulou-Ruffini type, which describes the thermodynamic state of these black holes. By differentiating this equation of state, expressions for the horizon temperature, angular velocities, electric potential, NUT potential, thermodynamic volume, and thermodynamic lengths are obtained. The results algebraically verify the first law of thermodynamics and the Smarr relation, confirming the internal consistency of the new formulation. This research also explores alternative parameterizations for the NUT charge and clarifies how the choice of thermodynamic volume is linked to the specific NUT sector considered. This work provides a controlled example of how a state space for an AdS black hole can be selected when the consistency of the first law alone is not sufficient to uniquely define it. The advance is significant for understanding the thermodynamics of black holes in anti-de Sitter spaces, which are relevant in the context of the AdS/CFT correspondence.

Phononic time crystals amplify acoustic waves

Scientists have demonstrated the engineering of temporal supercells and acoustic amplification in dispersive phononic time crystals. This breakthrough allows for the modulation of material properties over time, opening new avenues for wave control. Time crystals, analogous to spatial crystals, exhibit periodicity in their structure or properties that varies with time, which can lead to non-reciprocity and wave amplification phenomena. The team achieved acoustic amplification by creating temporal supercells, which are periodic sequences of temporal modulations applied to a material. By carefully adjusting the frequency and phase of these modulations, they were able to induce a net gain in the energy of sound waves passing through the material. This approach differs from conventional amplification methods, which typically rely on external energy injection or nonlinear phenomena in the medium. The ability to amplify acoustic waves in dispersive phononic time crystals has significant implications for the development of new devices. It could lead to the creation of more efficient transducers, sensors, and acoustic communication systems. Furthermore, this work deepens our understanding of the fundamental physics of time crystals and their potential to manipulate various forms of waves, from sound to light, opening the door to future research in metamaterials and temporal optics.

Exploring the phase diagram of strongly interacting matter

A new article in the Encyclopedia of Nuclear Physics offers a pedagogical introduction to functional approaches to Quantum Chromodynamics (QCD) at finite temperature and chemical potential. The study focuses on the phase diagram of strongly interacting matter, a map that describes the different states of matter under extreme conditions of temperature and density, such as those found in the interior of neutron stars or in the early stages of the universe. Understanding this diagram is crucial for unraveling the fundamental nature of the strong force, which binds quarks and gluons to form protons and neutrons. The work highlights the complementarity of functional methods, such as Dyson-Schwinger equations (DSE) and the functional renormalization group (fRG), with other first-principles approximations for non-perturbative QCD. These approaches are powerful theoretical tools that allow investigation of the behavior of quark-gluon matter in regimes where perturbative approximations are not valid. By combining these methodologies, physicists can obtain a more complete and robust picture of the phase transitions experienced by strongly interacting matter. The article discusses selected results obtained with DSE and fRG, providing a general overview of the QCD phase diagram. These methods have allowed exploration of the existence of phases such as the quark-gluon plasma, a primordial soup of elementary particles believed to have existed shortly after the Big Bang, and other exotic phases of nuclear matter. The publication is designed to be accessible to both students and researchers not specialized in functional methods, serving as a concise guide to the more advanced literature in this field of fundamental research.

Physicists debate their role in developing the green economy

A recent debate organized by the Institute of Physics has highlighted the crucial role physicists can play in advancing the green economy. The discussion, summarized by Matin Durrani, explored various ways in which physics research and applications are fundamental to the energy transition and environmental sustainability. It was emphasized that physicists' contributions extend beyond the development of new technologies, also encompassing the optimization of existing processes and a fundamental understanding of the phenomena underpinning renewable energy and energy efficiency. Key areas identified included materials physics for the development of more efficient solar panels and higher-capacity batteries, as well as plasma physics for nuclear fusion research. The importance of quantum physics in creating high-precision sensors for environmental monitoring and in designing new low-power electronic devices was also underscored. Physicists' ability to model complex systems and predict their behavior is equally vital for planning energy infrastructure and mitigating climate change. The debate concluded that, to maximize their impact, physicists must foster greater interdisciplinary collaboration with engineers, chemists, and economists, as well as effective communication with policymakers and the public. A call was made to academic institutions and funding bodies to prioritize research in sustainability-related areas, thus ensuring that the physics community is well-equipped to address the energy and environmental challenges of the 21st century.

Cell Adhesion and Packing Drive Tissue Organization

A new study has revealed that the organization of biological tissues, a fundamental process for organismal development and function, is governed by the interplay between cell adhesion and cell packing (or jamming). Researchers have shown that decoupling these two mechanisms allows cells to transition between fluid and solid states, which is crucial for morphogenesis and tissue homeostasis. This finding is significant because, until now, most models assumed that adhesion and packing were strongly linked, making it difficult to understand how tissues maintain their plasticity while preserving structural integrity. The team used an experimental model with epithelial cells to observe how changes in adhesion and cell density affect tissue dynamics. They manipulated the expression of adhesion molecules and tissue compression, which allowed them to decouple the effects of adhesion from those of packing. They found that by reducing adhesion, cells could move more freely even in high-density states, resembling a fluid. Conversely, an increase in adhesion could solidify the tissue even at lower densities. This independent control over fluidity is vital for biological processes such as wound healing, where cells must migrate, or embryonic development, which requires tissue remodeling. The results of this study not only deepen our understanding of tissue biophysics but also have important implications for medicine. Understanding how these phase transitions are regulated can offer new insights into diseases such as cancer, where cells lose their organization and migrate uncontrollably, or in tissue engineering, where precise control of structure is essential. The next step will be to investigate how these mechanisms integrate with other biochemical and mechanical signals in more complex tissue systems and in living organisms.

D0*(2300) meson's double-pole structure unveiled

A new analysis of lattice Quantum Chromodynamics (LQCD) data has revealed a double-pole structure for the D0*(2300) meson, an exotic hadronic state. This study, employing Unitary Chiral Perturbation Theory (UChPT), investigates the scattering of light and charmed pseudoscalar mesons across a pion mass range from 230 MeV up to the SU(3) limit of 700 MeV. The results indicate the presence of two poles in the non-strange isospin I=1/2 sector, both related to the experimental D0*(2300) resonance. At the physical pion mass, the poles are located at √s0 = 2094(7)(1) - i111(7)(13) MeV and 2463(60)(30) - i108(14)(12) MeV. The first pole, named D0*(2100), consistently behaves as a resonance in Dπ scattering within the 1σ region. The second pole, however, can manifest as either a resonance or a virtual state, depending on its proximity to the Dη and DsK channel thresholds. This is the first time the pion mass dependence of these poles has been studied along different chiral trajectories, including LQCD data in the SU(3) limit. The researchers observed that along the trajectory with physical strange quark mass (ms = ms,phy), the D0*(2100) pole exhibits behavior similar to the σ resonance in ππ scattering, splitting into two poles associated with the 3 representation. Furthermore, the higher-energy pole, related to the experimental D0*(2300), appears to be linked to the 6 representation. The mass of this latter pole remains remarkably constant along the Tr[M]=C trajectory, suggesting strong coupling to hidden strangeness channels and providing a verifiable prediction for future LQCD simulations. The study also evaluated the composition of the D0*(2100) state in the SU(3) limit.

Quantum geometric limits established for non-abelian holonomies

Researchers have discovered a universal quantum geometric limit (QGL) that governs non-abelian Wilczek-Zee holonomies. This finding establishes an analogy between abelian Berry phases, which can be expressed as curvature fluxes via Stokes' theorem, and non-abelian holonomies, where path ordering complicates a similar relationship. The QGL demonstrates that the magnitude of a non-abelian holonomy is universally bounded by a surface integral of the non-abelian curvature norm, providing new quantitative insight into these quantum phenomena. The study reinterprets holonomic evolution as an effective Stokes-Schrödinger dynamics, driven by a transported curvature. In this context, the QGL emerges as the geometric analogue of conventional quantum speed limits. While the latter are defined by the time-integrated norm of the generator, the QGL is characterized by a surface-integrated "curvature cost." This variational problem, relating the contour to the surface, is governed by a non-abelian Lorentz force, which the authors addressed using a brachistochrone ansatz based on curvature-weighted geodesics. Applying this framework to a SU(2) tripod-type dark subspace revealed that nearly optimal protocols spontaneously align the transported curvature along a single Lie algebra direction. This behavior suggests an effective way to "tame" the inherent non-abelian nature of these systems. This breakthrough not only deepens our understanding of quantum geometry but could also have implications for controlling complex quantum systems and developing quantum technologies, by offering new avenues for efficiently and robustly manipulating quantum states.

Maximum Density of Linearly Polarized Gluons in the Saturation Region

Researchers have calculated the maximum phase-space density associated with the linearly polarized gluon transverse momentum dependent (TMD) parton distribution function coefficient, $h_1^{\perp g}$, in the saturation region. This work is crucial for understanding the internal structure of hadrons, such as protons and neutrons, under conditions of high gluon density, where saturation effects become dominant. Gluon saturation is a phenomenon predicted by Quantum Chromodynamics (QCD) at low momentum fractions $x$, where the number of gluons inside the proton is so large that they begin to recombine, limiting their density. For the calculation, Mueller's occupation argument was employed, combining it with the Weizsäcker-Williams (WW) and dipole gluon distributions at low $x$, proposed by Metz and Zhou. It was found that for the dipole distribution, the maximum phase-space density, $n_{h,{\rm DP}}^{\rm max}$, is approximately $2\alpha_s^{-3/2}$, which is twice the maximum gluon density $n_g^{\rm max}$ in the same phase-space normalization. It is important to note that this result for the dipole is an approximation of the process-dependent TMD, not a literal numerical density of gluons. In contrast, for the WW distribution, the tensorial coefficient in deep saturation lacks the necessary logarithmic increase for Mueller's saddle point, which shifts the maximum towards the saturation limit. Additionally, the study included a numerical Collins-Soper evolution, revealing that the weight of the Bessel function $J_2$ in the definition of the tensorial TMD reduces the resolved peak. This yields numerical values for the coefficient $c_h^{\rm num}$ between 6.6 and 7.1 for representative scales of the future Electron-Ion Collider (EIC). These results are fundamental for interpreting experimental data to be obtained at the EIC and other deep inelastic scattering experiments, providing a more precise understanding of gluon dynamics in the saturation regime and polarization within nucleons.

Altermagnetic spin density wave controlled in kagome material

Researchers have successfully controlled an altermagnetic spin density wave (SDW) in the compound CsCr₃Sb₅, a material with a kagome structure. This breakthrough represents a significant step in understanding and manipulating altermagnets, a new class of magnetic materials that combine properties of ferromagnets and antiferromagnets. The ability to control these spin waves could open new avenues for the development of spintronic devices with greater efficiency and novel functionalities. CsCr₃Sb₅ is a material known for its kagome lattice, which gives it exotic electronic and magnetic properties. In this study, the material was observed to exhibit an altermagnetic phase characterized by a spin density wave. What is novel is that the researchers were able to manipulate this altermagnetic phase, demonstrating precise control over its properties. This is crucial because, unlike ferromagnets, altermagnets do not exhibit net magnetization, which makes them immune to perturbation by external magnetic fields, while, unlike antiferromagnets, they have a spin-polarized band structure that can be used in applications. The control of the altermagnetic spin density wave was achieved through specific techniques that allowed for the induction and modification of the spin configuration within the material. This achievement not only deepens our understanding of the physics of altermagnets but also underscores their potential for spintronics, where the electron's spin is used to store and process information. The possibility of integrating these materials into future spintronic technologies could lead to the creation of faster, more efficient, and robust devices, overcoming the limitations of conventional magnetic materials.

Compensating Piezoelectric Nonlinearity for High-Precision Atomic Force Microscopy

Atomic force microscopy (AFM) is a fundamental tool for nanotechnology, enabling atomic-scale surface characterization. However, its precision and speed are often limited by the nonlinear behavior of piezoelectric actuators, which are essential for probe positioning. These actuators exhibit hysteresis and creep, phenomena that distort the relationship between applied voltage and resulting displacement, compromising image fidelity and measurement accuracy. Researchers have developed a feedforward compensation technique to mitigate these nonlinear effects. The method involves predicting and correcting piezoactuator distortions in real time, based on an inverse model of its behavior. This strategy allows for high-precision probe positioning even at high scanning speeds, overcoming the limitations of traditional feedback control systems, which often introduce delays and oscillations at high frequencies. The implementation of this technique has demonstrated a significant improvement in AFM image quality, enabling faster and more reliable characterization of nanostructures. This advance is crucial for fields such as materials science, molecular biology, and nanoscale device manufacturing, where spatial and temporal resolution are critical. The ability to operate AFM at higher speeds without sacrificing precision opens new avenues for studying dynamic phenomena at the nanoscale and for optimizing nanofabrication processes.

Standard Interpretation of Breit-Wigner Resonances Criticized

A new analysis challenges the traditional interpretation of Breit-Wigner resonances in particle scattering, a fundamental concept in particle and nuclear physics. The standard formulation associates these resonances with complex energy poles in the scattering amplitude, identifying them with unstable particles. However, this study, based on solving the scattering problem for a square well, reveals that the description of the scattering phase $\tan\delta_{\rm BW} = \Gamma_1/(E_1-E)$ is not always adequate, and that the resonance width $\Gamma_1$ can be negative, which lacks physical meaning. The researchers point out that the complex pole energy $E_{\rm BW} = E_1 - i\Gamma_1$ does not represent a real energy eigenvalue, implying that it does not correspond to a physical particle. Furthermore, the spatial wave functions associated with decaying energy states exhibit unacceptable exponential growth. These problems are resolved by considering that, due to antilinear PT symmetry, solutions to the Schrödinger equation for the square well appear in pairs of complex conjugate energies $E_{\mp} = E_2 \mp i \Gamma_2$. Crucially, $E_{-} \neq E_{\rm BW}$. This new perspective leads to a time-independent probability amplitude that neither grows nor decays, either in time or in space. Most significantly, this formulation predicts a single observable physical resonance, rather than the two that might be inferred from the naive interpretation of complex poles. This work suggests a revision of how unstable resonances are conceptualized and interpreted in various quantum systems, with implications for understanding short-lived particles and scattering processes.

Electron Irradiation Modifies Properties of Mercury Manganese Thiocyanate Crystals

A recent study has investigated the impact of electron irradiation on the optical and electrical properties of mercury manganese thiocyanate (MMTC) crystals and their dimethyl sulfoxide (MMTCDS) variant. These materials are of interest for their potential applications in optoelectronics and sensing devices, and understanding how they respond to radiation is crucial for their development and use in environments where they may be exposed to it. The researchers observed that electron irradiation induces significant changes in the electronic structure of both types of crystals. Specifically, alterations were detected in the band gap and electrical conductivity. These changes suggest that radiation creates defects or atomic reconfigurations within the crystal lattice, which in turn modifies how electrons move through the material and how it interacts with light. The results of this work provide valuable information on the stability and performance of MMTC and MMTCDS crystals under radiation exposure. Understanding these effects is fundamental for designing more robust and efficient devices, especially those intended to operate in harsh environments or requiring high long-term reliability. The ability to modulate the properties of these materials through irradiation also opens new avenues for engineering their characteristics for specific applications.

SiO2-rich slabs reach the deep lower mantle

A new study has identified the presence of the mineral phase seifertite, a high-pressure form of silicon dioxide (SiO₂), in Earth's lower mantle. This finding, based on molecular dynamics simulations and laboratory experiments, suggests that subducted SiO₂-rich oceanic slabs can penetrate as far as the core-mantle boundary (CMB), a region much deeper than previously thought. Seifertite forms under extreme pressures and temperatures, indicating that these slabs maintain a distinctive composition and structure even at depths of thousands of kilometers. Traditionally, subducted slabs were thought to stagnate or mix with the surrounding mantle at intermediate depths. However, the persistence of seifertite under these extreme conditions provides key evidence that oceanic crustal material can descend much further. Seifertite is an SiO₂ polymorph that forms at pressures exceeding 120 GPa and temperatures of thousands of Kelvin, conditions found in the deep lower mantle. This discovery is crucial for understanding Earth's mantle dynamics and the geochemical cycle of elements. The identification of seifertite in these deep slabs has significant implications for models of mantle convection, the transport of water and carbon into Earth's interior, and the planet's thermal evolution. The presence of cold, SiO₂-rich material at the CMB could influence the generation of Earth's magnetic field and surface volcanic activity. Next steps include searching for direct seismic evidence of these seifertite-rich structures and improving geodynamic models to incorporate these new observations on the composition and behavior of subducted slabs in the lower mantle.

AI solves Erdős problems, a breakthrough for mathematics?

Artificial intelligence (AI) has succeeded in solving mathematical problems that had eluded human mathematicians for decades, sparking a debate about the future of research in this discipline. Although the original article does not detail the specific Paul Erdős problems that have been solved or the exact AI methods employed, it emphasizes that these solutions represent a significant milestone in machines' ability to tackle complex challenges in the realm of pure mathematics. This advance raises questions about the nature of creativity and intuition in mathematics. Traditionally, solving problems of this caliber has been an exclusive domain of human intellect, often requiring nonlinear approaches and a deep conceptual understanding. AI's ability to unravel these issues suggests a potential shift in how new mathematical truths will be approached and discovered in the future. The implications of this AI capability are broad. On the one hand, it could accelerate the pace of mathematical discoveries, allowing the exploration of vast solution spaces that are unattainable for humans. On the other hand, it sparks a debate about the role of mathematicians in a future where machines can solve complex problems, and whether this will complement or fundamentally alter the practice of mathematical research. It will be crucial to observe how the scientific community integrates these tools and redefines its methodologies in this new era of collaboration with artificial intelligence.

Jackiw-Teitelboim gravity emerges from holographic RG flow

Researchers have demonstrated how two-dimensional gravity, specifically Jackiw-Teitelboim (JT) gravity, can emerge from a holographic Renormalization Group (RG) flow. This work is part of the "GR from RG" program, which seeks to derive gravity from field theory principles. The starting point is a generic two-dimensional conformal field theory (CFT) with a three-dimensional holographic description, assumed to be pure Einstein-AdS$_3$ gravity in the bulk. The study analyzes the holographic RG flow for the 2D CFT action. They have found that the RG-corrected action at an arbitrary energy scale contains a two-dimensional scalar-tensor gravity theory. In its simplest form, this flow induces JT gravity, where the radial bulk lapse function acts as the seed for JT gravity's dynamical dilaton field. A particular case of this result is the recovery of the standard T$\bar{\text{T}}$ deformation of the 2D CFT in the Fefferman-Graham limit, where the lapse is held fixed. The robustness of this RG-induced gravity picture has been verified through its consistency under holographic renormalization and by generalizing the result to a one-parameter family of boundary conditions. This work provides a first-principles derivation of JT gravity on a finite cutoff, presenting it as an intrinsic manifestation of holographic RG flow in a non-Fefferman-Graham gauge. This opens new avenues for understanding the emergence of gravity from quantum field theories.

A new metric to quantify adaptation to successive disruptions

Researchers have developed a novel metric to quantify a system's ability to adapt to a series of consecutive disruptions or perturbations. This advance is crucial for understanding the resilience of complex systems, from ecosystems and social networks to critical infrastructure and economies. The proposed metric allows for the evaluation of how adaptation to a previous event influences the response and recovery from subsequent disruptions, an aspect that traditional resilience measures often overlook by focusing on isolated events.

NASA Welcomes SpaceX Crew-11 Mission Astronauts

NASA will host a public event with three crew members from the SpaceX Crew-11 mission. The meeting will take place on Monday, June 1, at 11:00 AM EDT in the Webb Auditorium at NASA Headquarters, located in the Mary W. Jackson building in Washington D.C. This event is part of the crew's standard post-flight visit. Although specific topics to be discussed have not been detailed, these meetings typically offer astronauts the opportunity to share their experiences in orbit, the results of experiments conducted, and their experiences returning to Earth. They also serve to interact with the public and foster interest in space exploration. The Crew-11 mission, although not specified in the announcement, likely refers to one of the crew rotations to the International Space Station (ISS) operated by SpaceX under NASA's Commercial Crew Program. These flights are crucial for maintaining a continuous human presence on the ISS and for the development of new space transportation capabilities.

NASA's X-59 Prepares for First Supersonic Flight

NASA's X-59 Quiet Supersonic Technology (QueSST) research aircraft is preparing for a series of crucial test flights, which will include its first foray into speeds exceeding that of sound. This milestone represents a fundamental step in the development of QueSST, designed to mitigate the sonic boom and enable future commercial supersonic travel over land. The X-59, a unique experimental aircraft, has been designed with an innovative aerodynamic shape to disperse the shockwaves that normally converge into a loud sonic boom. The primary objective of the QueSST mission is to demonstrate that it is possible to reduce the sonic boom to a much softer "thump" or "noise," barely perceptible from the ground. To achieve this, the X-59 will fly at supersonic speeds over populated areas of the United States, and NASA will collect data on community sound perception. This data will be crucial for regulatory bodies, such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), to establish new regulations that would permit commercial supersonic flights over land, something currently prohibited due to acoustic impact. The current testing phase will focus on verifying the aircraft's performance at supersonic speeds and collecting initial acoustic data. The success of these flights would not only validate the X-59's design but also lay the groundwork for a new era in aviation, opening the door to faster and more efficient air travel without the inconvenience of the sonic boom. This project represents a significant advance in aeronautical engineering and acoustics, with the potential to transform how we conceive of high-speed air transport.

Robert P. Crease imagines a modern Declaration of Independence

Robert P. Crease, in an article for Physics World, proposes a contemporary version of the United States Declaration of Independence. His exercise does not seek to rewrite history but to reflect on the fundamental principles of society and science in the current context. Crease's proposal invites consideration of how the inalienable values and rights, formulated in the 18th century, could be articulated today, incorporating advances in scientific knowledge and the evolution of social and political structures. The author uses this format to explore the interconnection between science and governance. Although the original text is brief and does not detail the specific content of this modern declaration, the premise suggests an integration of concepts such as rationality, empirical evidence, and the pursuit of knowledge as pillars for a just and progressive society. It is inferred that Crease might address topics such as freedom of research, access to scientific information, ethical responsibility in technological development, and the importance of scientific education for citizenship. This thought experiment by Crease underscores the relevance of physics and science in general not only as academic disciplines but as intrinsic elements in shaping civic values and democratic structures. By reimagining a foundational document, the author invites reflection on how scientific principles can inform and strengthen the ideals of liberty, equality, and the pursuit of happiness in the 21st century, proposing a dialogue between political philosophy and the scientific method.

Optical tweezers and AI for label-free analysis of extracellular vesicles

Researchers have developed an innovative method for the analysis of milk-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs), utilizing optical tweezers and an artificial intelligence algorithm. This technique allows for the individual characterization of EVs without the need for fluorescent labeling, overcoming a significant limitation in the study of these biological nanoparticles. The approach combines the precise manipulation of EVs using optical forces with the analysis of their intrinsic optical properties, opening new avenues for biomedical research and diagnostics. The study of EVs is crucial due to their role in intercellular communication and their potential as biomarkers for various diseases. However, their small size and heterogeneity have made individualized analysis challenging. Traditional methods often require the use of fluorescent markers, which can alter EV properties or introduce artifacts. The new methodology addresses this challenge by enabling the identification and characterization of EVs based solely on their inherent optical properties, such as refractive index, which is directly related to their composition and internal concentration. The system employs optical tweezers to trap and manipulate individual EVs, while an artificial intelligence algorithm analyzes light scattering patterns to infer their properties. This label-free analysis not only simplifies the experimental process but also preserves the integrity of the EVs, which is fundamental for understanding their biological function. The ability to analyze EVs individually and non-invasively could accelerate the discovery of new biomarkers and improve the understanding of disease mechanisms, as well as optimize the production of EV-based therapies.

NASA Astronaut to Answer Student Questions from Space Station

NASA astronaut Jessica Meir will participate in a Q&A session with students from New York from the International Space Station (ISS). During the event, Meir will address questions related to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) that have been pre-recorded by the students. The communication between the ISS and Earth is scheduled for Thursday, May 28, beginning at 11:05 p.m. EDT. This encounter will be broadcast live on the space agency's "Learn With NASA" YouTube channel, allowing for widespread dissemination of the interaction. This initiative is part of NASA's efforts to foster interest in STEM disciplines among new generations, using the experience of its astronauts in space as a source of inspiration and direct knowledge.

Optical frequency comb for high-sensitivity spectroscopy

Researchers have developed a single-mode optical frequency comb that can be independently controlled in frequency and amplitude. This advance is crucial for high-sensitivity cavity ring-down spectroscopy (CRDS), a technique used to detect trace gases and measure fundamental molecular properties. The ability to individually control each spectral line of the comb allows for unprecedented optimization of light-matter interaction, overcoming the limitations of conventional frequency combs where modulating one line affects the entire spectrum. CRDS spectroscopy relies on measuring the decay time of light within a high-quality optical cavity. By introducing a gas into the cavity, molecular absorption reduces the decay time, providing an extremely sensitive measure of its concentration. However, to fully exploit this sensitivity, it is essential that the light source couples efficiently to the cavity modes and that its frequency can be precisely tuned to the molecular transitions of interest. The new frequency comb addresses this challenge by allowing granular control over the frequencies and powers of its components, facilitating optimal coupling and detailed spectral exploration. This development has broad implications for metrology, atmospheric chemistry, and gas detection. The increased sensitivity and spectral control offered by this frequency comb could enable the detection of biomarkers in breath for medical diagnostics, the monitoring of atmospheric pollutants at ultra-low levels, or the measurement of fundamental constants with greater precision. The next step will be to integrate this comb into commercial CRDS systems and explore its application in more complex and demanding environments, such as remote sensing or spectroscopy in space.

Interdisciplinary science is crucial for solving complex problems

The complexity of current scientific and technological challenges underscores the critical need for interdisciplinary approaches. Problems ranging from climate change to the development of new medical therapies or quantum computing require the integration of knowledge and methodologies from diverse branches of science. This collaboration between traditionally separate fields allows for a more holistic understanding and the formulation of innovative solutions that would be unattainable from a single disciplinary perspective. Historically, science has often progressed through specialization, leading to profound advances in specific areas. However, many of the great contemporary challenges transcend the boundaries of a single discipline. For example, research in advanced materials can greatly benefit from combining condensed matter physics, synthetic chemistry, and materials engineering. Similarly, modern astrophysics draws on particle physics, optics, and computation to interpret telescope data and simulations. Interdisciplinary collaboration not only accelerates discovery but also fosters the creation of new research areas at the intersections of disciplines. This implies a cultural shift in academia, promoting effective communication among experts from different backgrounds and valuing contributions that do not fit into traditional categories. Investment in infrastructure and programs that facilitate these interactions is fundamental to maximizing the potential of science in solving society's most pressing problems.

Nonlinear Electronic Instability in Lunar Plasmas

A new study has identified a nonlinear electronic instability in the plasmas surrounding the Moon, a phenomenon that could explain the formation of previously observed plasma structures. This instability, termed the electron-flow instability, arises from the interaction between high-energy electrons from the solar wind and the lunar surface, which lacks a significant atmosphere. The research is based on numerical particle-in-cell (PIC) simulations and offers a new perspective on plasma dynamics in celestial environments without an intrinsic magnetosphere. The context of this discovery is framed within understanding how celestial bodies without global magnetic fields interact with the solar wind. Previous observations from missions like ARTEMIS (Acceleration, Reconnection, Turbulence and Electrodynamics of the Moon’s Interaction with the Sun) have detected complex plasma structures and intense electric fields near the lunar surface. Until now, the exact mechanisms behind the formation of these structures were not entirely clear. This work suggests that the electron-flow instability could be a fundamental driver for the generation of these perturbations, offering an explanation consistent with observational data. The researchers employed 2D and 3D particle-in-cell simulations to model the interaction of the solar wind with the lunar surface. These simulations revealed that electrons reflected by the lunar surface, upon interacting with incident solar wind electrons, generate a net current that leads to the instability. This instability manifests as high-frequency electrostatic waves that grow exponentially, perturbing the plasma and forming coherent structures. The numerical results indicate that this instability is robust and can operate under various lunar plasma conditions, providing a framework for interpreting in-situ measurements and future observations of the Moon and other similar celestial bodies.

Self-assembled hyperuniform systems show photonic band gap properties

Researchers have experimentally demonstrated that self-assembled hyperuniform systems in microfluidic channels exhibit photonic band gap properties. This finding is significant because hyperuniformity, a form of long-range order that suppresses density fluctuations at large scales, has been theoretically proposed as a pathway to design materials with robust photonic gaps. The novelty lies in the observation of these properties in self-assembled structures and in the ability to control their characteristics by manipulating flow parameters. The work addresses the search for materials with photonic gaps, regions of energy where light propagation is forbidden, which are fundamental for light control in optical devices. Traditionally, these materials have been designed from periodic photonic crystals. However, hyperuniform systems offer a promising alternative, as their correlated disorder can lead to isotropic and robust photonic gaps, less sensitive to defects than periodic crystals. This study advances the understanding of how hyperuniformity can be exploited in practice for photonics. The method employed consisted of the self-assembly of particles in a microfluidic channel, where flow conditions were adjusted to induce the formation of hyperuniform structures. Through optical characterization of these systems, the existence of photonic band gaps was confirmed. The results demonstrate that the band gap properties, such as their position and width, can be tuned by varying particle size and hydrodynamic conditions. This opens the door to the fabrication of programmable and adaptable photonic devices, with potential applications in sensors, lasers, and waveguides.

Uniaxial flexibility of bromine on gold (100) observed with STM

Researchers have revealed the uniaxial structural flexibility of a bromine (Br) layer adsorbed on a gold (Au(100)) surface using video-rate scanning tunneling microscopy (STM). This study provides a detailed understanding of how Br adatoms rearrange and move in a preferential direction, which has significant implications for the design of electrochemical interfaces and nanodevices. The work is based on the ability of video STM to capture dynamic changes on the surface at an atomic scale and in real time. By applying an electrochemical potential, bromine atoms form an ordered structure that, under certain conditions, exhibits remarkable flexibility. This flexibility manifests as a preferential reorganization along a specific crystallographic axis of the gold substrate, suggesting an intrinsic anisotropy in the interaction between bromine and gold. The observation of this uniaxial flexibility not only sheds light on the mechanisms of adsorption and atomic diffusion on metallic surfaces but is also crucial for understanding electrode stability and reactivity. These findings could be relevant for the development of new catalysts, sensors, and electronic devices where precise control of surface structure and atomic dynamics is fundamental. The ability to manipulate and understand these properties at the atomic level opens new avenues for engineering materials with specific functionalities.

Quantum metasurface enhances terahertz detection

Researchers have developed a quantum metasurface that significantly increases the sensitivity of radiation detectors in the terahertz range. This breakthrough addresses a critical limitation in detecting these frequencies, which has traditionally required bulky, expensive, and often cryogenic devices, or offered insufficient sensitivity and speed. The new technology promises to open the door to practical applications in fields such as security, medicine, and communications. Detecting radiation in the terahertz (THz) spectrum is a persistent challenge in physics and engineering. Unlike visible light, for which efficient and compact detectors exist, THz waves are in a region of the electromagnetic spectrum between microwaves and far-infrared, where interaction with materials is less direct and detection methods are more complex. The lack of sensitive, fast, and affordable THz detectors has restricted their widespread implementation in various applications. The key to this advance lies in harnessing the in-plane photoelectric effect, a quantum phenomenon enhanced by metasurface engineering. This technique allows for more efficient interaction between THz radiation and the detector material, resulting in a stronger electrical signal per incident photon. The improved sensitivity not only reduces the need for complex auxiliary equipment, such as cryogenic cooling systems, but also paves the way for more compact, faster, and more economical THz detectors, with the potential to revolutionize areas such as non-invasive medical imaging, explosive detection, and material spectroscopy.

ESA's Prodex Programme Boosts Space Science Research

The European Space Agency's (ESA) Prodex programme has successfully supported the 4DSpace-Daedalus mission, recently launched in Norway. This initiative primarily aims to facilitate the participation of highly qualified research institutes in European space science activities and missions, thereby promoting collaboration and advancement in the field of space science. Prodex acts as a catalyst for research centers in ESA member states to develop and build scientific instruments for space missions. This includes everything from component design to the integration and testing of complex systems that will operate in extreme environments beyond Earth's atmosphere. The 4DSpace-Daedalus mission is an example of how this funding and technical support translate into concrete projects that expand scientific knowledge. The relevance of Prodex lies in its ability to democratize access to space research, allowing a wider range of institutions to contribute to the European space program. By fostering the participation of experts from various countries, the program not only enriches missions with a variety of perspectives and skills but also strengthens Europe's technological and industrial base in the space sector. This collaborative approach is crucial for addressing the complex challenges of space exploration and for keeping Europe at the forefront of scientific research.

Staff cuts at a UK university physics department

A physics department at a UK university plans to reduce its staff by almost 30%. This measure, which would affect a significant portion of its academic and research personnel, has generated concern within the scientific community, which sees it as a potential precedent for other institutions and a risk to the capacity for research and teaching in physics. Although specific details about the university and the exact reasons for this decision have not been made public in the consulted material, such cuts are often driven by budgetary pressures, internal restructuring, or changes in the institution's strategic priorities. Physics, as a fundamental discipline, requires considerable investment in specialized personnel and equipment, and staff reductions can have a direct impact on the quality of research and the training of future scientists. The implications of such a measure are far-reaching. It could affect the department's ability to attract talent, maintain cutting-edge research projects, and offer high-quality education to its students. Furthermore, it could send a worrying signal about the support for basic science in the British academic environment, at a time when investment in research and development is crucial for technological and economic advancement.

NASA seeks collaborators to disseminate its missions

NASA has launched a call for creators from various fields to propose innovative ways to communicate the stories behind its missions. The initiative seeks to transcend traditional methods of scientific dissemination, inviting filmmakers, documentarians, composers, poets, and other storytellers to participate in spreading awareness of its most ambitious projects. The main objective is to enrich public understanding of the impact of space exploration and technological innovation. Among the thematic areas highlighted for this collaboration are the Artemis missions to the Moon, the development of nuclear propulsion for space travel, and advancements in aeronautics. The U.S. space agency thus seeks to connect with a broader and more diverse audience, using the power of narrative to illustrate the relevance of its efforts. This call underscores the growing importance NASA places on effective communication of science and engineering. By opening its doors to external creativity, the agency not only aims to increase the reach of its messages but also to inspire future generations and foster greater public engagement with space exploration and technological progress.

Classical computer emulates quantum supremacy with new algorithm

Scientists at the Center for Computational Quantum Physics (CCQ) at the Flatiron Institute and Boston University have solved a complex quantum physics problem using a classical computer and new mathematical tools. This problem had previously been presented as a demonstration of "quantum supremacy," meaning the ability of a quantum computer to perform calculations intractable for classical machines. The advance challenges the dividing line between quantum and classical computational capability, at least for certain problems. The problem in question is the simulation of the dynamics of a many-body quantum system, a task that grows exponentially in complexity with the number of particles. In particular, the team addressed a random quantum circuit sampling problem, a task that Google had used in 2019 to claim quantum supremacy with its Sycamore processor. The key to the team's success lies in an innovative algorithm that exploits the underlying structures of the problem, allowing for efficient simulation on conventional hardware. This development does not invalidate the long-term potential of quantum computing but underscores the importance of optimizing classical algorithms and mathematical techniques. It demonstrates that the frontier of quantum supremacy is dynamic and depends on both hardware and software. The work suggests that there is still considerable room to improve the efficiency of classical computers in solving quantum problems, which could delay the need for large-scale quantum computers for certain applications and foster healthy competition in the search for computational solutions.

New Adherents to the Artemis Accords for Space Exploration

Last week, the United States participated in an Artemis Accords workshop in Lima, Peru, at a time of growing international commitment to lunar and Martian exploration. This event followed the accession of six new nations—Latvia, Jordan, Morocco, Malta, Ireland, and Paraguay—to the coalition of Artemis Accords signatories, raising the total number of participating countries to 33. These accords, led by NASA, establish a framework of principles for safe, peaceful, and sustainable space exploration, building on the 1967 Outer Space Treaty. The Artemis Accords seek to foster international cooperation in the exploration of the Moon, Mars, and other celestial bodies, promoting transparency, system interoperability, emergency assistance, registration of space objects, and protection of space heritage. Furthermore, they address the sustainable utilization of space resources and the prevention of harmful interference. The growing global participation underscores the importance of establishing clear norms as more nations and private entities become involved in space activities, especially in the context of NASA's Artemis lunar program, which aims to establish a sustained human presence on the Moon. The expansion of the Artemis Accords reflects an emerging international consensus on the need for collaborative space governance. The accession of new countries from diverse geographical regions and levels of space development demonstrates the universal appeal of these principles. This framework not only facilitates collaboration in future missions but also seeks to mitigate conflicts and ensure that the benefits of space exploration are shared by all humanity, laying the groundwork for a more inclusive and responsible era of interplanetary exploration.

Ecotypes: A species' genetic memory for rapid adaptation

Evolutionary biologists are unraveling the genomic mechanisms that enable populations to adapt rapidly to local and diverse habitats without speciation occurring. This phenomenon, observed in what are known as ecophenotypes or ecotypes, suggests an intrinsic capacity of species to retain and activate genetic information relevant to specific environments. Research focuses on how phenotypic plasticity and pre-existing genetic variation contribute to this accelerated adaptation, partly challenging the traditional view of evolution that emphasizes speciation as the primary driver of adaptive diversity. The study addresses a fundamental question in evolutionary biology: how populations can persist and thrive in heterogeneous environments without the need for complete genetic divergence leading to new species. Ecotypes, genetically differentiated populations within the same species that adapt to specific environmental conditions, have been observed to act as reservoirs of "genetic memory." This memory does not imply Lamarckian inheritance, but rather the ability of populations to rapidly select and express alleles or genetic combinations that already exist in the species' gene pool, but are particularly advantageous in a given ecological niche. The implications of this research are significant for our understanding of species' resilience to environmental change. By identifying the genomic mechanisms underlying ecotype formation, scientists can better predict how populations will respond to selective pressures such as climate change or habitat alteration. Furthermore, this knowledge could inform conservation strategies by highlighting the importance of preserving genetic diversity within species, as this variability is the basis for their capacity for rapid adaptation to new environmental challenges.

NASA's AWE Completes Mission to Study Atmospheric Gravity Waves

NASA's Atmospheric Waves Experiment (AWE) instrument has concluded its data collection phase, exceeding its planned two-year mission. On May 21, ground controllers powered down the instrument, which had been installed on the exterior of the International Space Station (ISS) since November 2023. AWE was dedicated to studying atmospheric gravity waves, which are large-scale disturbances in Earth's atmosphere, with the goal of understanding their impact on space weather and the ionosphere. Atmospheric gravity waves are generated by meteorological phenomena in the lower troposphere, such as storms or airflow over mountain ranges. These waves propagate vertically through the atmospheric layers, transferring energy and momentum from the lower to the upper atmosphere. Upon reaching the thermosphere, they can influence the density and composition of this layer, in turn affecting the ionosphere, a critical region for radio communications and satellite navigation systems. The AWE mission aimed to quantify this energy transfer and its effect on space weather variability. The successful conclusion of the AWE mission provides a valuable dataset for the scientific community. The collected data will enable researchers to improve atmospheric and space models, leading to greater accuracy in space weather prediction. A deeper understanding of how Earth's atmosphere interacts with the space environment is fundamental for protecting technological assets in orbit and for the safety of crewed space missions. Analysis of these data will continue in the coming years, shedding light on the complex dynamics between Earth's atmosphere and space.