Recent Scientific Endeavors Span from the Cosmos to the Chilean Desert
Recent scientific and cultural endeavors have captured public attention this week, ranging from astronomical surveys confirming cosmological theories to innovative plant preservation efforts in Chile and even physics-based challenges involving ice bowls.
Astronomers released the most extensive cosmic map to date, confirming that matter in the Universe is less clumpy than standard cosmological theory would predict, according to Nature News. The Dark Energy Survey observed approximately 150 million galaxies visible in Earth's southern sky.
Meanwhile, in Chile, efforts are underway to protect plant life in the world's driest desert. NPR Politics reported on the Initihuasi Seed Bank, where researchers like Ana Sandoval are "nurturing the future with a pot of shooting seeds – preserving biodiversity one sprout at a time." Vicuña, Chile, the birthplace of Gabriela Mistral, is home to these efforts.
Ars Technica highlighted a collection of interesting scientific stories, including evidence suggesting that humans, not glaciers, transported the stones to Stonehenge from Wales and northern Scotland. The publication also mentioned research into Leonardo da Vinci's DNA in his art and the use of brewer's yeast as scaffolding for lab-grown meat.
On a lighter note, Wired explored the physics of escaping an ice bowl, a challenge involving getting out of a carved-out ice sphere. The article detailed three possible escape plans, using physics models and animations to illustrate the techniques.
In other cultural news, The Verge recommended M83's album "Dead Cities, Red Seas & Lost Ghosts," noting its post-rock sound reminiscent of Mogwai, before the band transitioned to an 80s-inspired pop style. Terrence O'Brien of The Verge noted the album's suitability for snowy weather.
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