MI weekly selection #213
Megamaser galaxy seen in Hubble image
A galaxy about 370 million light-years away from Earth that researchers think holds a megamaser has been spotted by the Hubble Space Telescope. “A megamaser is a process where some components within a galaxy (like gas clouds) are in the right stimulated physical condition to radiate intense energy,” read a statement from the European Space Agency that accompanied the image of the galaxy IRAS 16399-0937.
2016 will ended with additional second
A leap second is being added to 2016 by the International Earth Rotation and Reference Systems Service. The leap second, which does not occur regularly, is added to reconcile occasional differences between atomic time and astronomical time, which is based on the rotation of Earth.
Vibrant life thrives under East Antarctica ice shelves
The vibrant, thriving world that exists beneath the ice shelves of East Antarctica is revealed in a new video released by Australian Antarctic Division scientists. “This ice provides protection from Antarctica’s harsh weather conditions and a stable marine environment that allows biodiversity to flourish,” says researcher Glenn Johnstone in the video’s narration.
2016 was good year for NASA
NASA has had a productive 2016. Among its many achievements are the Juno spacecraft’s arrival at Jupiter; the launch of asteroid-sampling OSIRIS-Rex; and the completed construction of the James Webb Space Telescope, which will launch in 2018.
Scientists experiment with how sound can alter taste
Sonic seasoning, or the addition of sound to an eating experience, can alter a person’s perception of food. Further testing is needed, but restaurants and food manufacturers may someday be able to use music and sounds to change the way their products taste.