MI weekly selection #600

Study challenges assumptions about magnetar formation

The study of the magnetar SGR 0501+4516 using Hubble and Gaia telescopes has deepened the mystery of its origins. Previously thought to be associated with the supernova remnant HB9, the magnetar shows no connection to it, which suggests that SGR 0501+4516 may have formed through an alternative process, such as a merger of neutron stars or the collapse of a white dwarf, rather than the typical core-collapse supernova.

Full Story: ScienceAlert

Microplastics are transported to deep sea

A study has provided the first direct evidence of microplastic transport to the deep sea via turbidity currents. Researchers observed the phenomenon in Whittard Canyon in the Celtic Sea, finding high concentrations of microplastics 300 kilometers from shore.

Full Story: Eos

Researchers demonstrate hybrid quantum network node

Researchers have demonstrated coherent control of a hybrid quantum network node using diamond colour centres. The achievement involves managing three types of qubits and implementing bit-flip error correction, marking a significant step toward scalable quantum networks.

Full Story: PhysOrg

Exoplanet orbits brown dwarf binary at 90-degree angle

Astronomers have discovered a unique planetary system featuring the first known polar planet, 2M1510 (AB) b, which orbits at a 90-degree angle around a binary pair of brown dwarfs. This system, located 120 light-years away in Libra, is also notable for being only the second known eclipsing brown dwarf pair.

Full Story: Space

Earth’s water may have been present at formation

A study suggests that water was part of Earth’s original composition, challenging the theory that it arrived via comets and asteroids. Using X-Ray Absorption Near Edge Structure spectroscopy, researchers found significant hydrogen in enstatite chondrites, indicating that oceans could have formed without external sources.

Full Story: ScienceAlert