Analysis of a sample of asteroid Bennu reveals dust rich in carbon, nitrogen and organic compounds needed for life
Early analysis of a sample of the asteroid Bennu returned by NASA’s OSIRIS-REx mission has revealed dust rich in carbon, nitrogen and organic compounds, all of which are essential components for life as we know it. The sample, dominated by clay minerals, particularly serpentine, reflects the type of rock found at mid-ocean ridges on Earth.
Magnetic field and sea
German zoologists have found that bottlenose dolphins are as good as sharks and other fish in their ability to sense very weak electric fields, which allows these cetaceans to use the Earth’s magnetic field for orientation in space. Underwater compasses have recorded disturbances in the Earth’s magnetic field deep under water.
Massive natural and industrial sources of greenhouse gases are accelerating warming
Leaks of methane and carbon dioxide from the ocean floor, from cracks in the ground, industrial leaks and emissions from tropical forests have been detected.
NASA and UNESCO plan to study up to 80 percent of the ocean floor by 2030
The US space agency’s goal is twofold: to understand the nature of the oceans that exist on other planets and to develop technologies to operate in extreme conditions. UNESCO study of the world’s oceans is important for preserving a sustainable climate and ecosystems.
Unexpected sources of ocean pollution
Decaying plastic and nutrients from cities and farms pollute the ocean as much as oil spills.
An island of garbage in the ocean visible from space
An island of garbage floating in the ocean, the size of California, can be seen from space. This was confirmed by Russian cosmonaut Mikhail Kornienko.
Global warming contributes to severe storms and floods
The World Meteorological Organization warns that high water temperatures are leading to rising sea levels, which in turn increases the risk of flooding.
By the middle of the 21st century, Arctic ice may completely melt in summer
The planet’s “refrigerator” has broken down. The Arctic Ocean will be completely free of summer ice by 2030. This assumption was put forward by scientists in connection with the noticeable warming of the Arctic Ocean and the melting of Arctic ice.