Intuitive Machines, the company that achieved the first commercial lunar landing earlier this year, has secured a $117 million contract from NASA to deliver six science payloads to the moon’s south pole in 2027. This mission, part of NASA’s Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) program, marks a significant step in the agency’s strategy to leverage the private space industry for lunar exploration.
A new study analyzing Viking Age skeletons reveals that individuals in Norway were significantly more likely to die from violence than those in Denmark. The researchers attribute this difference to factors such as a more decentralized government in Norway, greater emphasis on weaponry, and a less stratified social hierarchy in Denmark.
Drug Science and University College London (UCL) have announced a strategic partnership to further investigate the efficacy of MDMA-assisted psychotherapy. This collaboration aims to address concerns raised by the FDA regarding the therapy’s regulation and therapist training, focusing on understanding the intricate interplay between MDMA and various psychotherapeutic approaches. The research will involve studying how different therapeutic modalities impact the effectiveness of MDMA treatment, ultimately aiming to provide a clearer understanding of the therapy’s potential for treating mental health conditions.
Scientists have discovered a specific type of immune cell, called GD3 cells, that plays a crucial role in determining how itchy a person gets after an allergic reaction, such as a mosquito bite. These cells release a signaling molecule called interleukin 3 (IL-3), which activates sensory neurons in the skin, making them more likely to trigger an itch. The research, conducted in mice, offers potential new targets for treating chronic itch disorders.
NASA’s Advanced Composite Solar Sail System (ACS3) spacecraft, designed to test a new type of solar sail capable of propelling spaceships at unprecedented speeds, is experiencing unusual tumbling motion in Earth’s orbit. The spacecraft’s attitude control system, responsible for maintaining its orientation, is currently offline, leading to the wobbling. While NASA confirms the tumbling is part of a planned sail deployment sequence, the exact cause and duration remain unclear. The incident has sparked curiosity among space enthusiasts, with the sail potentially visible to the naked eye over the next few weeks.
The Mississippi State Legislature has passed legislation establishing the Mississippi Medical Cannabis Research Program at the University of Mississippi, aiming to deepen understanding of medical marijuana’s therapeutic potential. This bipartisan effort leverages Ole Miss’s longstanding expertise in cannabis research and provides funding for scientific investigations and educational initiatives.
The James Webb Space Telescope has captured an image of a galaxy that appears as a question mark, due to a phenomenon called gravitational lensing. This unique observation provides valuable insights into the evolution of galaxies, including those similar to our own Milky Way in its early stages.
A significant helium reservoir discovered in Minnesota could alleviate the global helium shortage, potentially boosting US production by 8.3%. The discovery holds promise for various industries reliant on helium, including scientific research, medical technology, and space exploration.
A strange pulsating sound emanating from the Starliner spacecraft, carrying astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, caused a stir on social media. Former ISS commander Chris Hadfield expressed concern, while NASA initially attributed the noise to a technical issue. Although the sound has stopped, online speculation continues regarding the source and implications of the unusual occurrence.
The global peptide therapeutics market is projected to experience robust growth, reaching a market value of US$ 85.9 billion by 2031, driven by factors such as the rising prevalence of chronic diseases, advancements in peptide synthesis and delivery technologies, and increasing investments in biopharmaceutical research and development. This market analysis explores the key drivers, trends, and regional insights shaping the future of peptide therapeutics.
