How is Norway like the moon? In the Pangaea geology training course, director Francesco Sauro is leading a team of astronauts and geologists in exploring the rare crystallised magma found in the mountainous region of Lofoten, Norway. Resembling that found on the moon, the crystallised magma is believed to have resulted from the melting of a glacier millions of years ago. Pangaea scientists hope to build relevant hypotheses about the origin of the moon through this ‘space’ exploration. Read full article here
Societal Issues
To curb drug deaths, communities turn to Reddit, texts and wastewater
With drug overdose deaths on the rise, authorities are attempting to curb the epidemic by tracking and sharing information in real time. In one unique effort, a nonprofit in New York City is using drug-testing equipment and stamping or marking habits of dealers to identify drug batches that may endanger users. Other approaches are also being used, such as monitoring drug-related chatter on Reddit and analyzing local wastewater for opioid and other drug levels. With the combination of these efforts, researchers hope to put a dent in the opioid crisis and reduce overdose deaths. Read full article here
Merv
June 1, 2023
