Comet and asteroid dust — collectively known as micrometeorites — account for most of the extraterrestrial material that ends up on Earth; around 5,200 tons of it fall to the Earth annually. Researchers from the French National Centre for Scientific Research hope that this could lead to a better understanding of this extraterrestrial dust’s significance in bringing water and carbon to our planet during its early stages of development. 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
