Xuelong 2 icebreaker
China's first domestically-built polar icebreaker, Xuelong-2, has entered the Arctic Circle to carry out the nation's 13th Arctic Ocean scientific research expedition. The expedition aims to carry out investigations into the geology and geophysics of the mid-ocean ridge, as well as atmospheric, sea ice, marine and subsurface environmental surveys. The team will work with scientists from countries including Russia and Thailand on relevant research to promote international cooperation on Arctic research. The expedition team is expected to return to Shanghai in late September.
Jupiter exploration
NASA's Juno spacecraft has made its closest approach of Jupiter's moon, Io, coming within 22,000 kilometers. The data collected is expected to provide a wealth of information on the hundreds of erupting volcanoes found on Io's surface. Launched in 2011, the solar-powered craft has been studying the Jovian system, which encompasses Jupiter, its rings and moons, since 2016. The Juno mission aims to study Jupiter's strong gravitational pull, large magnetic field and colorful atmosphere to learn how the gas giant was formed and how it has evolved.
Ice age Resurrected
Scientists have resurrected a worm that was preserved by the Siberian permafrost for a record 46,000 years. The worm survived 40 meters below the surface of the Siberian permafrost in a state known as cryptobiosis, in which organisms can live without water or oxygen and withstand extreme temperatures. They remain in a state "between death and life," in which their metabolic rates decrease to an undetectable level. Scientists hope by analyzing the animal, they can develop efforts to protect other species in extreme conditions.
Super moons 2023
Astronomy fans will be treated to a special lunar phenomenon this month, with two super moons gracing our skies. The first show was on August 2, with the full moon appearing slightly brighter and larger than normal. A second lunar spectacle can be enjoyed on August 30th. On this date, the moon will reach its closest point to the Earth this year, making it a rare blue moon, which occurs when there are two full moons in a single month. The last time two full super moons graced our skies in the same month was in 2018, and, according to Italian astronomer Gianluca Masi, it won't happen against until 2037.