@matecurkovic

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Scientists have unveiled the **largest 3D map of the universe**, created by the Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument (DESI), with **every point representing a galaxy**. This breathtaking map helps researchers explore the **mystery of dark energy** driving the universe’s accelerated expansion. Earth sits at the centre of a **mind-blowing cosmic portrait**.

#DarkEnergy #Astronomy #3DUniverse #SpaceScience #DESI https://www.space.com/science/3d-dark-energy-map-is-mind-blowing-space-photo-of-the-day-for-april-16-2026

3D dark energy map is mind-blowing | Space photo of the day for April 16, 2026

Every single tiny point on the map is a galaxy.

Space
New research shows that “body wandering,” when our thoughts drift to sensations like heartbeat or breath, may help mental health. While it can trigger brief negative emotions, it’s linked to fewer symptoms of depression and ADHD over time. Tuning into the body might protect against harmful rumination. #Neuroscience #MentalHealth #MindWandering https://www.sciencenews.org/article/mind-wander-body-mental-health
When our minds wander to the body, it may affect mental health

People’s minds sometimes wander to their bodily sensations, which may reduce symptoms of depression and ADHD, a new study suggests.

Science News
The Vera C. Rubin Observatory has discovered over **11,000 new asteroids** in just six weeks, including **33 near-Earth objects**.
Its powerful surveys also revealed **380 distant trans-Neptunian objects**, two with extremely elongated orbits.
These early results show Rubin will **revolutionise solar system mapping** and bolster planetary defence.
#Astronomy #Asteroids #SpaceScience #RubinObservatory #PlanetaryDefence https://phys.org/news/2026-04-early-vera-rubin-observatory-reveals.html
Early data from Vera C. Rubin Observatory reveals over 11,000 new asteroids

Using preliminary data from the Vera C. Rubin Observatory, scientists have discovered over 11,000 new asteroids. The data were confirmed by the International Astronomical Union's Minor Planet Center (MPC), making this the largest single batch of asteroid discoveries submitted in the past year. The discoveries were made using data from Rubin's early optimization surveys and offer a powerful preview of the observatory's transformative impact on solar system science.

Phys.org
Scientists using NASA’s Curiosity rover have found the first clear evidence of an ancient Martian sandstorm in Gale Crater, dating back over 3.5 billion years.
The unique ripple formations reveal that Mars once had a much denser atmosphere capable of powerful, short-lived storms.
This discovery offers new insight into the Red Planet’s past environment and potential habitability.
#Mars #Astronomy #SpaceScience #CuriosityRover #Geology https://phys.org/news/2026-04-serendipitous-discovery-martian-ripple-reveals.html
'Serendipitous' discovery of Martian ripple marks reveals an ancient sandstorm

The search for life on Mars involves the efforts of scientists from many different disciplines. An important aspect of that search is to study Martian sedimentary rocks for information about the planet's environment when it is likely that the surface environment hosted abundant water and therefore more habitable, around three to four billion years ago. Now, research published in the journal Geology shows evidence of an intense sandstorm that swept through Mars's Gale crater over three billion years ago.

Phys.org
Early humans evolved faster than other apes, rapidly developing larger brains and flatter faces. 🧠 This shift was likely driven by complex social structures and cognitive advantages. Evolutionary studies show our skulls changed twice as much as expected. #HumanEvolution #Science #Anthropology https://www.discovermagazine.com/early-humans-outsprinted-other-apes-in-evolution-growing-a-larger-brain-at-a-faster-rate-48170
Early Humans Outsprinted Other Apes in Evolution, Growing a Larger Brain at a Faster Rate

Learn how early humans evolved at a much faster rate than other apes, adapting larger brains as they developed new ways to socialize.

Discover Magazine
Quantum computers may soon break current internet encryption with as few as **10,000 qubits**, far fewer than previously thought.
Improved **quantum error correction** could allow elliptic curve cryptography to be cracked in 1,000 days, and faster with more qubits.
Experts urge urgent adoption of **quantum‑resistant cryptography**. #QuantumComputing #CyberSecurity #Encryption https://www.sciencenews.org/article/quantum-bits-crack-internet-encryption
Just 10,000 quantum bits might crack internet encryption schemes

Quantum computers based on atoms could provide access to encrypted data much sooner than scientists thought.

Science News
Researchers at Purdue University have used blood proteins to assemble conductive n-PBDF polymers directly in the brain, forming safe, mesh-like structures around neurons. This breakthrough could lead to “living electronics” that integrate bioelectronics with the body. Monitoring long-term safety and polymer stability remains crucial. #Neuroscience #Polymers #Bioelectronicshttps://cen.acs.org/materials/polymers/Blood-proteins-help-build-conductive/104/web/2026/04
Scientists have discovered that male octopuses use a specialised arm, the **hectocotylus**, to sense female hormone **progesterone** and mate without seeing their partner.
The arm acts like a tongue, detecting chemical cues to locate the female’s reproductive organs.
This insight reveals how solitary octopuses achieve reproduction at arm’s length. #MarineLife #Octopus #Sciencehttps://www.theguardian.com/environment/2026/apr/02/sex-octopus-specialist-arm-mating-science
Artemis II astronauts face serious risks from solar particle events as they travel beyond Earth’s protective magnetosphere. A 2025 solar storm highlighted how sudden radiation spikes could threaten both crews and spacecraft electronics. Advanced warning systems and shielding are vital for future lunar missions. #ArtemisII #SpaceWeather #SolarStormshttps://www.zmescience.com/science/news-science/uh-oh-could-a-solar-storm-derail-the-artemis-ii-mission/
Scientists at the Salk Institute discovered that DNA constantly folds and unfolds, influencing which genes switch on or off. Rapidly changing regions are linked to active genes, while stable areas remain inactive. Disrupted DNA motion may drive cancer and developmental disorders. #Genetics #CancerResearch #DNA