Space nebulae (tip: google “nebulae” for some amazing photos) have “filaments”—spiralling arms that extend from a nebula’s centre. Conventional astronomy suggests that nebulae are clouds of dust and gas, the main ingredients for baby stars. But stars aren’t made of dust and gas; they’re made of very hot gas that has turned into plasma. According to a new theory, these nebulae filaments are actually plasma of electrical currents. The Electric Universe theory suggests that these electric currents are responsible for making plasma glow, even in the cold centres of nebulae. 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
