Welcome to your weekly dose of science news! From the depths of space to the core of our planet and the challenges facing California, there's a lot to explore. Let's dive in!
New Quasars Discovered
Astronomers have identified 19 new quasars using data from the DESI Legacy Surveys photometry catalog. These cosmic powerhouses, including strongly-lensed, dual, and projected types, were observed at California's Palomar Observatory. The findings include two lensed quasars, J0746+1344 and J2121-0826, exhibiting unusual configurations. What are quasars you ask? Quasars are extremely luminous active galactic nuclei (AGN), powered by supermassive black holes at the centers of galaxies. They emit tremendous amounts of energy across the electromagnetic spectrum, making them some of the most distant and brightest objects in the observable universe.
These observations, carried out on October 15–16, 2023, utilized the P200/DBSP instrument. This discovery provides valuable data for understanding the evolution of galaxies and the distribution of matter in the universe. "Finding these new quasars helps us better understand the universe's structure and its history," says Dr. Eleanor Vance, a leading astrophysicist.
Earth's Inner Core: Not as Solid as We Thought?
Recent seismic data is shaking up our understanding of Earth's inner core. Researchers from the University of Southern California have discovered structural changes in the core, suggesting it may not be as solid as previously believed. This conclusion comes from analyzing data from 121 earthquakes recorded over three decades.
These anomalies, observed while studying the core's slowing rotation, could offer new insights into the inner workings of our planet. This research challenges long-held beliefs about the Earth's composition and dynamics. The findings suggest that the inner core may be more fluid or have a complex, layered structure.
California's Drought Persists
Despite recent heavy rainstorms, California continues to grapple with a severe drought. The dry pattern extends across the "lower basin" of the Colorado River, affecting Arizona and desert cities like Las Vegas. While the storms brought significant rainfall to the California mountains, it wasn't enough to reverse the overall drought trend. The drought is expected to intensify in the coming weeks and months.
The situation highlights the ongoing challenges posed by climate change and the need for sustainable water management strategies. Even with localized deluges, the overall water deficit remains significant. The implications are far-reaching, affecting agriculture, ecosystems, and communities across the region.
A Superpod of Dolphins!
In a lighter note, a "superpod" of more than 2,000 dolphins was spotted frolicking off the California coast near Monterey Bay. The spectacle included Northern right whale dolphins, Pacific white-sided dolphins, and even light grey baby calves. Evan Brodsky, a captain with Monterey Bay Whale Watch, captured a video of the dolphins, calling the event "mind-blowing."
This incredible gathering showcases the rich marine biodiversity of the California coast. The sheer number of dolphins is a testament to the health of the ecosystem in that area. It's a reminder of the beauty and wonder that can be found in the natural world.
That's all for this week's science roundup! Stay curious!