
This Week in Science: Astonishing Black Hole Merger, 'Anti-Aging' Mushrooms, and Record-Breaking Internet Speeds!
2025-07-19
Author: Jia
An Explosive Week in Science
This week has been nothing short of thrilling in the world of science! From a record-breaking black hole merger to remarkable geological events on Earth, the discoveries are making headlines everywhere.
Volcanic Activity in Iceland
The spotlight shines on Iceland, where an enormous lava-spewing fissure burst open along the Sundhnúkur crater row following an earthquake swarm. This dramatic eruption featured two fissures, the larger stretching about 1.5 miles (2.4 kilometers) long, while the secondary fissure measured 1,600 feet (500 meters). Geologists are also uncovering more about how vast underground 'BLOBS' might drive these catastrophic volcanic events.
The Sun's Fiery Display!
Meanwhile, our sun showed off its fiery nature by unleashing a series of colossal plasma eruptions, including one that was startlingly termed 'The Beast.' This gigantic plasma projection spanned over 100,000 miles (165,000 km)—an astounding 13 times the width of our planet!
Japan Sets New Internet Speed Record!
In an impressive technological leap, researchers in Japan have shattered the world record for internet speed! Utilizing groundbreaking optical fibers, they achieved a staggering 125,000 gigabytes of data transmission per second over a distance of 1,120 miles (1,802 km). This speed is about 4 million times faster than the average broadband speed in the U.S., indicating a bold step in catering to the surging global data traffic.
Mind-Blowing Mushroom News!
In intriguing health news, the psychoactive compound psilocybin found in magic mushrooms has demonstrated potential anti-aging properties. In laboratory studies, it was shown to extend the lifespan of human cells by up to 57% and promisingly improved hair quality in aging mice, leaving researchers like Louise Hecker in awe of its implications for treating anxiety, depression, and neurodegenerative diseases.
Earth's Mysteries and Natural Wonders
As scientists explore the depths of our planet, questions arise—what is Earth's lowest point on land? While we often discuss towering mountains like Mount Everest, understanding the depths below offers its own exciting mysteries.
Scientific Curiosities
In other science highlights, researchers are revealing fascinating studies, including the connection between gender and math skills and the surprising behaviors of space debris from NASA's DART mission. Moreover, archaeologists have rediscovered ancient rivers in Antarctica that flowed up to 80 million years ago!
The Week of the Sloth!
And let's not forget the adorable! A cute baby sloth recently caught on camera confirmed that these slow-moving creatures do indeed fart, a fact many scientists had long doubted. This newfound evidence, shared by wildlife experts, has the internet buzzing!
Stay Curious!
Whether you're looking up at the sky for meteor showers or down to explore Earth's wonders, this week has offered a whirlwind of enchanting discoveries and inquiries waiting to be pursued.