Aiming at number 9: CASPAR targets fluorine in new science run

The Compact Accelerator System for Performing Astrophysical Research recently started a new run targeting fluorine. Researchers use the underground facility to recreate stellar conditions. "Fluorine is one of these breakout reactions that can jump from carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, straight through fluorine and on to the heavier elements," said Dan Robertson.

Central surface density of dark matter agrees with the prediction of a new theory of gravity

A Sejong University researcher used a new theory of gravity to predict the central surface density of dark matter. Published on Sept. 20, the study showed results consistent with actual observations. Youngsub Yoon said, "This study shows that a new theory of gravity can explain another intriguing regularity observed."

Bennu asteroid samples point to a surprising origin involving Jupiter

NASA collected 120 grams of material from asteroid Bennu in 2023. Researchers at ETH Zurich analyzed the samples and found a unique chemical fingerprint. Maria Schönbächler said, "Bennu is a hybrid: the material does not clearly match either the inner or the outer solar system." It likely formed near water-ice.

Can this biotech innovation halt the destructive march of a cereal killer?

Researchers at the John Innes Centre found a way to protect cereal crops from blast fungus. They studied plant receptors to help wheat, barley, and rice fight disease. "We've discovered something that could lead to a potential intervention on what is the worst fungal disease of cereals," said Mark Banfield.

HEADS to bridge India's mental healthcare gap with AI

NIMHANS, IIT Kharagpur, and LGBRIMH will launch the HEADS project on Thursday to bridge India’s mental healthcare gap using AI. Dr. Lekhansh Shukla said, "HEADS instead builds for Indian languages from day one." This two-year study uses AI to screen for depression in five regional languages to help clinicians.

Former IIT director suggests 5-year BTech, flexible exit option to ease student burden

Former IIT Delhi director V Ramgopal Rao suggested a five-year BTech structure to reduce student pressure. He said, "With such heterogeneity, can we expect every student to learn at the same pace?" This flexible model allows students to finish earlier or take more time, helping those who struggle with coursework.

Air Force firepower to get boost with Rs 810 crore anti-airfield weapons deal

The Ministry of Defence on Wednesday signed a Rs 810.79-crore contract with Bharat Dynamics Limited for 160 Satellite Smart Anti-Airfield Weapons. These precision-guided bombs will be launched from Jaguar, Hawk, and Su-30 MKI aircraft. The ministry said, "Its induction would certainly enhance the operational capability of IAF to continue their unhindered operations."

Scientists detect first radio signals directly from faraway planet

Scientists detected radio signals from an exoplanet 63.4 light-years away. The MeerKAT telescope picked up these bursts four times in 2025 and 2026. Researchers said, "no radio detection has previously been unambiguously localised to an extrasolar planet rather than its host star." These signals show auroras exist on planet Beta Pictoris b.

Quantum device simulates matter popping into existence

A research team at the Duke Quantum Center observed string-breaking dynamics on a quantum simulator. The experiment showed how new particles pop into existence when connections snap. Christopher Monroe said, "Quantum computer simulations provide the best platform to investigate complex questions like matter formation, short of having witnessed the Big Bang."

James Webb Space Telescope finds water near our nearest supermassive black hole photo of the day for Sept. 23, 2026

The James Webb Space Telescope found water near Sagittarius A, our galaxy’s supermassive black hole, on September 23, 2026. Researchers used the Mid-Infrared Instrument to spot oxygen-rich dust around the star IRS 3. Co-author Garcia Marin said, "The detection of water is especially exciting because it shows that molecular material can survive."

Earth may have gained optimal conditions for life's chemistry 4.33 billion years ago

Conditions on early Earth became stable enough to support life’s chemistry around 4.33 billion years ago, according to new research. Scientists used computer models to show how asteroid impacts heated the crust. Oleg Abramov said, "These criteria point to the Earth becoming suitable for an early stage of life."

Adding limestone to Mississippi River Basin farmlands acts as a major carbon sink, study finds

A new Yale-led study says farmers in the Mississippi River Basin store more carbon dioxide in the soil when they add limestone to their fields. "Better soil pH management can improve yields and soil health," said Christopher Reinhard. This practice helps the climate while keeping crops healthy for many farmers.