A volcano emerged on the Reykjanes peninsula in Iceland on December 18, following months of seismic activity. The eruption marks the first in the area in 800 years, as the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates move apart. The town of Grindavik was evacuated in November due to the threat of the eruption. Experts William Moreland and Ármann Höskuldsson discuss the challenges of predicting volcanic activity and the ongoing geological processes in the region, which may continue for the next several centuries.

Debbie Senesky, an Associate Professor at Stanford University, discusses the potential of space manufacturing, emphasizing the unique advantages of microgravity environments for creating high-quality materials. Her research focuses on developing robust electronics for extreme environments like Venus and exploring new material properties achievable in space. The article highlights the emerging space economy and the role of commercial low-Earth orbit destinations in future manufacturing.

Roman Kizyma, a pediatric oncologist and acting director of the Western Ukrainian Specialized Children’s Medical Center, has been instrumental in evacuating and treating children with cancer amidst the war in Ukraine. The war has severely disrupted medical logistics, making it challenging to provide necessary treatments. Kizyma and his team have coordinated the relocation of over 1,500 children to safer locations in Europe and the USA through the SAFER Ukraine project. Despite the immense challenges, including the loss of two children during evacuations and the death of a colleague, Kizyma remains committed to his mission. The article highlights the collaborative efforts with international partners and the resilience of medical staff in providing care under dire circumstances.

Astronomers have released the first image of the supermassive black hole, Sagittarius A*, at the center of the Milky Way. Captured using the Event Horizon Telescope (EHT), this image shows the black hole's shadow against the glowing matter surrounding it. The EHT employs Very Long Baseline Interferometry (VLBI) to combine radio observatories worldwide into a single virtual Earth-sized telescope. The image was derived from data collected during a 2017 observing run, and future advancements may allow for video capture of the black hole's dynamic environment.

The article discusses the Universe in All Senses, an astronomy festival in Castellaro Lagusello, Italy, focusing on its multisensory approach to make astronomy accessible to people with disabilities. The festival featured various workshops and events, including sonifications, tactile experiences, and QR codes for navigation. Key participants included Italian astronomer Anita Zanella and visually impaired astronomers Nic Bonne and Enrique Pérez-Montero. The festival aimed to foster inclusion and engagement, with positive feedback from attendees like Claudia Beschi and Mattia Grella, who found the multisensory experiences enriching.

Wanda Díaz-Merced, a blind astronomer, has pioneered the field of astronomical sonification, using sound to capture gamma-ray bursts and other astronomical phenomena. Her work, inspired by an early experience with a radio telescope, has led to significant discoveries, including insights into supernovae. Enrique Pérez-Montero, another blind astrophysicist, uses similar techniques to analyze data without visual bias. Their contributions challenge traditional visual-centric methods in astronomy, highlighting the potential of alternative sensory approaches in scientific research.

Dr. Nia Imara, an astrophysicist and artist, explores the intricate structures of stellar nurseries and their role in star formation. She uses 3D printing to create models that help visualize these complex formations, enhancing our understanding of the physics involved. Imara emphasizes the connection between art and science, and the contributions of Black and brown scientists and artists throughout history.

In 2016, the Hubble Cantata event in Brooklyn combined live opera music with virtual reality headsets, offering a 360-degree view of stunning galaxies. This marked the beginning of a new field: astronomical sonification, where data from space is transformed into sound. Composer Paola Prestini and astrophysicist Matt Russo are key figures in this field, using data such as orbital paths and star brightness to create symphonies. This approach not only makes astronomical data accessible to the visually impaired but also inspires new scientific discoveries. Russo's work, including collaborations with NASA, has gained significant attention and acclaim.

A blind astronomer revolutionized the field of astronomy by 'sonifying' gamma-ray bursts, leading to a critical discovery. This innovative approach involved listening to data rather than visualizing it, showcasing a significant advancement in scientific methodology.

Astronomers and musicians are collaborating to convert astronomical data into sound, aiming to make new discoveries and inspire individuals who are blind or visually impaired.

The article discusses the phenomenon of gravitational waves produced by merging black holes, which are detected and converted into sound by observatories like LIGO, VIRGO, and KAGRA. These waves, predicted by Albert Einstein, provide valuable data on cosmic events and the expansion of the universe. The global network of gravitational-wave observatories is expanding, with plans for a new detector in India, aiming to double the catalog of detected mergers in the next 18 months.

Gravitational waves, predicted by Albert Einstein in 1916, are ripples in spacetime caused by massive cosmic events like black hole mergers. These waves, detected by observatories such as LIGO, VIRGO, and KAGRA, are converted into sound, producing distinctive 'chirps.' The global network of gravitational-wave observatories has detected around 100 cosmic collisions, with plans to expand and increase detections. These observations not only confirm Einstein's theories but also provide insights into the universe's expansion and the creation of heavy metals during high-energy cosmic events.

Scientists have recreated quark-gluon plasma, a substance that hasn't existed since moments after the Big Bang, using the Relativistic Heavy Ion Collider at Brookhaven National Laboratory. This particle accelerator smashes atomic nuclei at near light speed, producing tiny droplets of the primordial fluid. Detectors sPHENIX and STAR, equipped with advanced technology, analyze these collisions to provide insights into the behavior of matter's fundamental building blocks, enhancing our understanding of the universe's origins.

LINKS provides a collection of five stories exploring various aspects of human experience. Topics include the influence of maternal genes on a baby's microbiome, the complexities of defining burnout, the recreation of quark-gluon plasma in particle accelerators, the historical battle over race science, and the advanced adaptive behaviors of Neanderthals. The articles feature research from institutions like the Broad Institute, MIT, Harvard, and Brookhaven National Laboratory, and discuss contributions from notable scientists and researchers.

The article explores the origins of heavy elements like gold and platinum, which cannot be formed inside stars like lighter elements. Scientists have theorized that these elements are created during the collision of neutron stars, a theory supported by recent observations of gravitational waves and light from such events. The rapid neutron-capture process, or R-process, during these collisions results in the formation of new matter, explaining the cosmic origins of the gold in our jewelry.

Scientists have long been puzzled by the black hole information paradox, which questions what happens to information that falls into a black hole. Stephen Hawking's 1974 discovery that black holes evaporate through quantum processes suggested that information could be destroyed, contradicting fundamental physics laws. Recent breakthroughs propose that wormholes might connect black holes, allowing information to escape through special areas called islands. These findings challenge and expand our understanding of the cosmos and the nature of reality.

The James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) has captured the deepest image of the cosmos ever, showing galaxies from over 13 billion years ago. The JWST, a result of over two decades of work by scientists and engineers, is designed to explore the universe's early moments and is expected to make significant discoveries about the formation of galaxies, stars, and black holes. It operates at -380 degrees Fahrenheit to detect infrared light from the early universe. The first year of JWST's science will include examining the atmospheres of exoplanets and the surface chemistry of Kuiper Belt objects. The JWST is anticipated to be an engine of discovery for the next generation of scientists.

Fifty years ago, Apollo 8 launched with astronauts Frank Borman, James Lovell Jr., and William Anders, marking the first human voyage to the moon. The mission's highlight was the iconic 'Earthrise' photograph, capturing Earth's appearance from lunar orbit. This image, along with subsequent broadcasts and observations by the crew, underscored the planet's fragility and beauty, leaving a lasting legacy on space exploration and environmental awareness.

NASA's InSight spacecraft is set to land on Mars on November 26, 2018, aiming to study the planet's geological structure. Unlike previous rovers, InSight will remain stationary, using a seismometer to detect marsquakes and a device to measure heat flow from the planet's core. The mission seeks to uncover Mars's past habitability and provide insights into the formation of rocky planets, including Earth.

At the center of the Milky Way lies Sagittarius A*, a supermassive black hole that astronomers study through its gravitational effects on nearby stars like S2. Observations reveal phenomena such as gravitational redshift and the destruction of gas clouds. The Event Horizon Telescope aims to capture the first image of the black hole, while the Very Large Telescope has provided glimpses of the surrounding area. Black holes, while destructive, also contribute to star formation through jets of gas. The study of these cosmic entities continues to push the boundaries of our understanding of the universe.

The Parker Solar Probe, set to launch in the summer of 2018, will be the first spacecraft to touch the sun, aiming to study its outer atmosphere, the corona. The mission, named after astrophysicist Eugene Parker, will involve seven flybys of Venus over seven years to gradually tighten its orbit around the sun. Equipped with a high-tech heat shield, the probe will operate at room temperature despite the intense heat and radiation. The mission seeks to understand the corona's high temperatures, particle acceleration, and coronal mass ejections, which can impact Earth's satellites and power grids. Insights from the probe could improve predictions and resilience against solar storms.

Tasting menus, often found in high-end restaurants in cities like New York and San Francisco, showcase a chef's creativity and skill through a series of small, meticulously crafted dishes. These menus cater to wealthy patrons and are designed to prevent palate fatigue by offering a variety of flavors in small portions. The concept, popularized by chefs like Thomas Keller, contrasts with Japanese omakase, which focuses on seasonal and fresh ingredients. While tasting menus symbolize status and culinary artistry, they can also be seen as excessive and overwhelming. Restaurants like Chez Panisse and Empire State South have adapted by offering more flexible dining options alongside their tasting menus to accommodate diverse customer preferences and dietary restrictions.

The Milky Way galaxy is filled with billions of planets, many of which remain unseen. The Kepler space telescope, launched in 2009, discovered thousands of exoplanets by detecting small dips in starlight. On April 16, 2018, NASA's Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) will launch from Cape Canaveral to continue the search for exoplanets. TESS will scrutinize the entire sky over two years, looking for minute dips in brightness caused by nearby alien worlds. The data collected by TESS will help astronomers study these planets in greater detail, potentially identifying worlds suitable for lakes, oceans, and even life.

On October 19, 2017, the Pan-STARRS telescope in Hawaii discovered Oumuamua, the first known interstellar asteroid, characterized by its unique cigar shape and rapid movement through space. Observations from the Very Large Telescope and the Allen Telescope Array revealed its dark, red-stained surface and unusual trajectory. Oumuamua's origins remain a mystery, but it is now heading towards the constellation Pegasus. This discovery suggests that many such interstellar objects may have passed unnoticed, hinting at the galaxy's rich and dynamic history.

On September 15, 2017, the Cassini spacecraft will conclude its 13-year mission by diving into Saturn, ensuring the protection of Saturn's moons from earthly microbes. Cassini's journey, which began in 2004, included significant discoveries such as the exploration of Titan and Enceladus, revealing potential habitats for life. The mission provided detailed observations of Saturn's rings and moons, contributing valuable scientific data. Cassini's final act will be a controlled descent into Saturn's atmosphere, marking the end of a groundbreaking era in space exploration.

The twin Voyager spacecraft, launched in 1977, embarked on a historic journey through the solar system, utilizing a rare planetary alignment to visit Jupiter, Saturn, Uranus, and Neptune. They provided humanity with unprecedented views and scientific data, including the discovery of active volcanoes on Io and the intricate rings of Saturn. Voyager 1 eventually headed toward interstellar space, while Voyager 2 continued to explore Uranus and Neptune. Both spacecraft carry a Golden Record, a time capsule containing sounds and images from Earth, intended to outlast our planet. The mission's legacy is immortalized by Carl Sagan's reflection on the 'Pale Blue Dot' image of Earth, a testament to our existence in the vast cosmic arena.

On August 21, 2017, a solar eclipse will cast a shadow across North America, offering a rare celestial event. The article explores the phenomenon from various perspectives, including those of astronauts on the International Space Station, weather satellites, and the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter. It also touches on other celestial events like transits of Mercury and Venus, and eclipses on Mars and Jupiter. The narrative delves into the cosmic significance and the beauty of these astronomical occurrences.

130 million years ago, a pair of neutron stars collided, creating a kilonova explosion that sent waves of light and gravitational ripples across the universe. On August 17, 2017, this event was detected by LIGO and Virgo gravitational-wave detectors, and observed by various telescopes including NASA's Fermi space telescope, the Swope telescope, the Dark Energy Camera, the Very Large Array, and the Hubble Space Telescope. This marked the first time astronomers could both see and hear a gravitational-wave event, providing insights into the physics of neutron stars and the creation of heavy elements like gold and platinum.

The sun, while relatively calm compared to other stars, is a dynamic and volatile entity. It acts as a thermonuclear furnace, generating spectacular storms that emit high-energy particles and radiation into space.

Apple introduced the iPhone 6S and 6S Plus with 3D Touch and 4K video, starting at $200 with a two-year contract. The new Apple TV, featuring voice commands, games, and a new remote, will be available in October starting at $150. The iPad Pro, with Microsoft and Adobe apps, a smart keyboard, and the Apple Pencil, starts at $800. iOS 9 promises better battery life and improvements to Siri. Despite the absence of Steve Jobs, Apple's events continue to draw significant attention, with the new Apple TV potentially impacting the video gaming business.

Seabirds such as albatross, petrels, and penguins are increasingly threatened by plastic waste in the Pacific, Atlantic, Indian, and Southern Oceans. A new study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences reveals that brightly colored plastic debris is often mistaken for food by seabirds, leading to fatal ingestion. The study, which analyzed data from 1962 to 2012, found a dramatic increase in plastic ingestion among seabirds, predicting that 99% of all seabirds will have ingested plastic by 2050. Researchers suggest stricter regulations on plastic production and disposal to mitigate this growing environmental threat.

On July 14th, 2015, the New Horizons spacecraft will pass by Pluto and its five known moons, with the outcomes of the mission remaining uncertain.

Astronomers on a volcano in Mexico are using the Large Millimeter Telescope, part of the Event Horizon Telescope network, to capture the first image of a black hole. This network aims to see details far finer than the Hubble Space Telescope, potentially revealing the black hole at the center of the Milky Way, known as Sagittarius A*. The article discusses the significance of black holes, referencing Einstein's predictions and the impact of black holes on galaxy formation, as seen in the galaxy M87.

Launched in 1990, the Hubble Space Telescope initially faced ridicule due to a flaw in its mirror but was corrected by spacewalking astronauts three years later. Hubble has since provided unparalleled images of the cosmos, thanks to its ability to spin in any direction, lock onto guide stars, and record in different wavelengths of light. Despite the end of servicing missions after the Columbia disaster, a final mission led by John Grunsfeld extended Hubble's life, allowing it to continue making significant astronomical discoveries.

In December 1972, astronauts on the last Apollo mission captured iconic images of Earth, known as 'the blue marble.' Today, astronauts aboard the International Space Station observe Earth from 250 miles above, witnessing phenomena like volcanic activity, storms, and solar eclipses. The station offers a unique perspective, revealing Earth's dynamic nature and its place in the cosmos. The Cassini spacecraft's 2013 image of Earth from Saturn's rings underscores our planet's singularity in the universe. The narrative celebrates the advancements in space exploration and the profound views of our planet from space.

Astronauts aboard the International Space Station observe Earth from 250 miles above, capturing its dynamic beauty and geological activity. The article reflects on the historical significance of the Apollo missions and the ongoing exploration of space by robotic spacecraft, emphasizing the unique perspective gained from orbit. The narrative highlights the Earth's vibrant ecosystems, the impact of human activities, and the awe-inspiring views of natural phenomena such as auroras and solar eclipses.

The Milky Way galaxy and its slightly larger sibling, the Andromeda galaxy, are on a collision course, set to collide head-on in about 2 billion years. Despite the vast empty spaces within galaxies, the gravitational disruption will scatter stars and form new ones, eventually merging into a single giant galaxy. This cosmic event, confirmed by the Hubble Space Telescope, will occur long after the Earth has been rendered uninhabitable by the dying Sun.

Fifty years ago, Apollo 8 marked a historic milestone as the first manned mission to leave Earth's orbit and travel to the moon. Astronauts Frank Borman, James Lovell Jr., and William Anders became the first humans to see and photograph Earth from space, capturing the iconic 'Earthrise' image. Their mission involved orbiting the moon ten times and scouting future landing sites, culminating in a memorable Christmas Eve broadcast. The mission underscored the vastness of space and the fragility of Earth, leaving a lasting legacy in space exploration history.