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Hubble Space Telescope spies dusty debris from two cosmic collisions
NASA's Hubble Space Telescope has gotten a rare peek at the aftermath of two cosmic collisions — and helped scientists solve a decades-old mystery.
New Mexico’s largest reservoir plunges to just 1. 4% full
Elephant Butte Reservoir, New Mexico’s largest reservoir, plunged to just 1.4 percent capacity in July 2026 after years of extreme drought and record early snowmelt. The dramatic decline exposed long-submerged debris and underscored the growing strain on Rio Grande water supplies used by farms in New Mexico and Texas.
An American Cold War-era spy satellite just exploded above Earth
The defunct USA 32 (or Farrah III) satellite, which launched in 1988, broke apart without warning on Sept. 13, around 480 miles above Earth's surface. Experts are still unsure what caused this sudden fragmentation, how many pieces it created, or how the debris might impact other nearby spacecraft.
F-16 crash debris cleared as health officials wait on soil and ground testing results
Weird Science: Research using everyday trash to figure out how litter travels from city streets to the ocean.
Led by NC State and NC Sea Grant, the study involves releasing GPS-equipped plastic bottles into the Neuse River to track their movement in real time. The goal is to solve the mystery of how land-based waste transforms into the marine debris that clutters our coastlines.
Scientists discover heavier version of proton with upgraded detector
Snappily named Xi-cc-plus, Cern physicists spotted the particle in shower of debris that lit up Large Hadron Collider
What scientists are learning after SpaceX debris crashed into the moon
Scientists warn: a hidden space threat could trigger the next plane crash - Futura-Sciences
Space debris: silent stalkers in our skies For the past 50 years, NASA has recorded no more than one piece of space debris making it to the ground per day. And thankfully, there’s yet to be a single serious accident. After all, Earth is big and humans only occupy a...
Political watchdog fines Newsom for failing to report $5.5M in solicited donations on time
The California Fair Political Practices Commission said most of the violations were for failing to report that Gov. Gavin Newsom and his his staff directed inquiries from companies and foundations to offer help after the Los Angeles wildfires to the California Fire Foundation.
Scientists identify the rare meteorite that killed the dinosaurs 66 million years ago
The asteroid that wiped out the dinosaurs was likely an exceptionally rare CO chondrite from a distant region of the solar system. Its unusual chemistry suggests that planet-cooling dust and debris, rather than sulfur inside the asteroid, may have delivered the deadliest blow.
Health: The Fight For The Health Of 9/11 First Responders
A quarter century after 9/11, the health of those who responded to the attacks continues to be affected.Some 3,000 people died across three locations that day. An estimated 400,000 people were exposed to toxic contaminants and risked physical injury in the hours and days that followed. That’s according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Since the dust and debris have settled, more than 96,000 have been diagnosed with physical and mental health conditions related to 9/11.In 2010, President Barack Obama signed the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act, establishing the World Trade Center Health Program and reopening the 9/11 Victims Compensation Fund. Today, more than 150,000 people are enrolled in the program.But that program wouldn’t exist without the advocacy of survivors and first responders who put their bodies and lives on the line following the attacks. How did that fight for care unfold?For more information about the Rutgers WTC Health Program, click here. And to learn more about applying, click here.Find more of our programs online. Listen to 1A sponsor-free by signing up for 1A+ at plus.npr.org/the1a.
Grand Rapids business faced with thousands of dollars in damage amid flooding
A small business in Grand Rapids is turning to the community for help after flooding and intense wind in recent weeks filled the space with water damage, debris and disappointment.
Could Life on Earth Have Descended From Microbes That Traveled From Mars Long Ago?
Scientists demonstrated that an Earthly extremophile might withstand being ejected from the Red Planet on debris spewed into space due to an asteroid strike
Business in Oak Creek Canyon worried about impact of flooding threat
Last week’s flooding turned Oak Creek dark as water carried charred debris downstream after the Pocket Fire. Forest Houses Resort says floodwaters rose about 5 feet at its crossing, leaving it impassable until crews cleared sediment. Owners say continued flash flood concerns have prompted guest cancellations, even as their private property remains accessible. Businesses say open trails, restaurants and other attractions still give visitors reasons to come to Sedona and Oak Creek Canyon.
Is There Alien Debris on the Moon? Some Scientists Plan to Find Out.
Researchers want to explore the idea that microscopic particles shed by alien civilizations have accumulated on the lunar surface, making it an archive of extraterrestrial technology.
After Causing Delays for 9/11 Health Claims, Social Security Pledges to Do Its Job
Lawyers say the Social Security Administration has for months not provided basic data to complete compensation claims for those sick and dying after exposure to debris from the Sept. 11 attacks.
Residents near Maui wildfires show elevated metals linked to impacted lung health, study says
A new study finds that metal mixtures found in smoke, ash and debris after the 2023 Maui wildfires affected human lung health.
"Mad Science" at the Olney Public Library
OLNEY - The activity room of the Olney Public Library was packed again Wednesday, as families enjoyed an entertaining and educational afternoon with Dr. Debris for her “Mad Science” show.
Video Many 9/11 first responders face lasting health effects 25 years later
ABC News spoke with first responders about illnesses linked to dust, smoke and debris exposure at ground zero 25 years later— and their fight for benefits.
Nina Dietz to Discuss the Public Health Impacts of Wildfires at the Milken Institute
Image The Department of Global Health at George Washington University’s Milken Institute School of Public Health will host Pulitzer Center grantee and freelance journalist Nina Dietz at a Research and Practice Seminar. On Thursday, November 12, 2026, from 2:00pm-3:00pm EST, Dietz will present on her Pulitzer Center-supported project The Toxic Side of Climate Change. The project investigates the hazards left behind by urban wildfires in Los Angeles and examines the long-term risks these toxins pose to affected communities. The project also explores what remains in the ash and debris after a fire, and how those materials impact public health. Dietz is a writer, documentarian, and journalist reporting from a background rooted in both science and the humanities. Her work has appeared in New Lines Magazine, Inside Climate News, Science Friday, and at Photoville, among others.
Pittsburgh Restaurant Hit With 10 Health Violations
Bar & Grill in Pittsburgh found "out of compliance" with 10 state health violations, including pests, debris, and food safety issues. | 100.1 FM and AM 1020 KDKA
Residents near Maui wildfires show elevated metals linked to impacted lung health, study says
A new study finds that metal mixtures found in smoke, ash and debris after the 2023 Maui wildfires affected human lung health.
China’s glueball ‘triumph’; SpaceX rocket debris on video: 7 science highlights
From China’s plan against desertification to nuking a ‘doomsday asteroid’, here are some highlights from SCMP’s recent science reporting.
SpaceX wants to build AI data centers in space. Will it work?
The race to build data centers in space is gaining momentum as AI drives unprecedented demand for computing power. Orbital facilities could tap into abundant solar energy and avoid many of the environmental challenges faced on Earth. Yet space remains a harsh and expensive place to operate, with major hurdles including cooling, maintenance, radiation exposure, and orbital debris.
Space debris is forcing satellites to dodge more often — costing us vital science. 'Things will get worse before they get better'
"Each time a satellite has to maneuver to avoid a potential collision, it uses fuel which is a finite and precious resource."
I Toured the Company Mapping Space Debris. Then I Polled Worried and Hopeful Scientists
From portable radars in shipping containers to orbital cameras, I asked scientists how the space-junk tracking industry plans to avoid catastrophic crashes.
First Responders At 9-11 Still Suffering From Health Problems
The toxic dust and debris from the collapse of the World Trade Center on Sept. 11, 2001 is still affecting many who lived and worked there.
The Eta Aquariid meteor shower peaks this week: How to see 'shooting stars' dropped by Halley's Comet
The Eta Aquariids will peak May 5-6, with debris from Halley's Comet creating swift meteors, though bright moonlight will make them harder to see.
From spider silk to science: a new way to access hidden fungal diversity
A new study from Thailand demonstrates that the debris-heavy webs of orb-weaving spiders can serve as natural, non-destructive tools for collecting and culturing viable environmental fungi. Through the isolation of living organisms, this innovative approach has already uncovered potentially new, undocumented fungal diversity within tropical rice fields.
Composition of Extreme Debris Disks Across Time
By investigating the compositions of extreme debris disks, scientists inferred that silica-rich disks are produced by high-energy impacts of Mars-sized objects, while silica-poor disks are created by less energetic events from Moon-sized bodies.
Space is filling with junk and scientists have a fix
Earth’s orbit is getting crowded with broken satellites and leftover rocket parts. Researchers say the solution is to build spacecraft that can be repaired, reused, or recycled instead of abandoned. They also want new tools to collect old debris and new data systems that help prevent collisions. The goal is to make space exploration cleaner and more sustainable.
Residents near Maui wildfires show elevated metals linked to impacted lung health, study says
A new study finds that metal mixtures found in smoke, ash and debris after the 2023 Maui wildfires affected human lung health
“It was insane to see”: Owner reacts after car crashes into Kansas City, Kansas, business
A car crashed into a Kansas City, Kansas, business Thursday morning, sending debris across the block and leaving the storefront boarded up.
How cleaning up space debris could grow to become a big business
As Earth’s orbit gets more crowded, companies are betting that cleaning up space junk could become a lucrative new business.
STHS Tahoe Science students clear 2,000 pounds of forest debris
SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. – Tahoe Science students at South Tahoe High School recently put on hard hats, picked up loppers, and put in the kind of work that makes […]
Drone debris falls on business grounds in Russia's Novorossiysk, mayor says
Drone debris fell on the premises of a number of businesses and close to an inhabited building in the Russian Black Sea port of Novorossiysk late on Tuesday, Mayor Andrei Kravchenko said on the Telegram messaging app.
SpaceX loses contact with Starlink satellite after mishap
SpaceX's Starlink said one of its satellites experienced an anomaly in space on Wednesday that created a "small number" of debris and cut off communications with the spacecraft at 418 km (259.73 miles) in altitude, a rare kinetic accident in orbit for the satellite internet giant.
Debris Management in Gaza - Standard Operating Procedure: Health and Safety in Debris Removal and Recycling — Interim Guidance (August 2026)
Manual and Guideline in English on occupied Palestinian territory about Climate Change and Environment and Recovery and Reconstruction; published on 19 Aug 2026 by UNDP and UNEP
'Fatbergs' are taking over city sewers - scientists are fighting back
Reeking coagulations of grease and debris are clotting city sewers on a colossal scale. New technologies are being used to control this modern menace.
The emerging space economy brings opportunity and legal risks for business
The emerging space economy brings opportunity and legal risks for business
“Something out of Science Fiction” – Astronomers Discover a Star That Glows a Bizarre Shade of Green
A star’s color usually reflects its temperature, but white dwarfs can break that pattern, with models revealing unexpected shades of green, pink, and purple. A star that has drawn in rocky debris from its planetary system would appear chartreuse green to the human eye, according to new calculations by University of Warwick astronomers. As far
The Dinosaurs May Have Had Only Hours Before Extinction After the Asteroid Struck and Turned the Planet into a Global Furnace
New research suggests fine dust trapped heat from falling debris, producing a deadly pulse that could have ignited forests around the world.
Dubai International Airport evacuated after attack
Videos online show debris and smoke as travelers rush to the exits. The Dubai airport said most of the terminals were evacuated ahead of the attack.
This million-year-old 'baby planet' is the youngest world scientists have ever discovered
Astronomers have confirmed a large exoplanet is forming in the cloud of debris around a young star. At less than a million years old, it's the youngest exoplanet found so far.
Space junk falls back to Earth faster as sunspot numbers climb
A new study links the sun's 11-year cycle to accelerated orbital loss, with debris falling faster once sunspot numbers near their cycle peak.
Scientists Tracked These Strange Arctic Icebergs and Found Something Unexpected on the Seafloor
Researchers traced new undersea ecosystems of soft coral, sea anemones, sponges, and more to large rocks and mineral deposits ferried by icebergs from dry land to the Arctic floor.
Saudi Arabia says debris from an intercepted Houthi drone killed 1, and other Mideast developments
Saudi Arabia said debris from an intercepted Houthi drone killed one person, while the leader of the Iran-backed Houthis called for protests and said the kingdom committed a “monstrous fabrication” when it accused the rebels of trying to attack Islam’s holiest city. Meanwhile, United Nations-backed human rights experts said there are “reasonable grounds” to believe […]
Plant science with a twist
From morning glories spiraling up fence posts to grape vines corkscrewing through arbors, twisted growth is a problem-solving tool found throughout the plant kingdom. Roots “do the twist” all the time, skewing hard right or left to avoid rocks and other debris. Scientists have long known that mutations in certain genes affecting microtubules in plants can cause plants to grow in a twisting manner.
Gov. DeSantis gives new Isaias recovery update as crews clear roads, businesses get aid
Florida officials are expanding Hurricane Isaias recovery efforts across the Panhandle, with crews clearing debris from rural roads, businesses gaining access t
New Mexico Department of Public Safety Forensic Laboratory: Science in service of justice - NM Department of Public Safety
The New Mexico Department of Public Safety Forensic Laboratory stands as a model of scientific precision and integrity, where expert analysts, rigorous training, cutting-edge technology and state-of-the-art facilities unite in pursuit of justice. From firearms and toolmark analysis to DNA, latent fingerprints, controlled substances, fire debris, and evidence processing, every examination reflects the laboratory’s unwavering […]
Oregon DEQ offers help removing Centennial Mills fire debris for residents, businesses
After the Centennial Mills fire left unstable walls, Oregon DEQ is helping clean ash and debris at nearby homes, businesses, roads, parks and playgrounds. Crews will replace wood chips and test for lead.
Metals in smoke, ash from Maui wildfire harmed lung health, study says
A new study finds that metal mixtures found in smoke, ash and debris after the 2023 Maui wildfires affected human lung health.
Alien tech on the moon? Scientists propose search for microscopic debris
Could there be alien tech on the moon? Scientists propose a new search for microscopic particles shed by alien technology.
Severe storms damages Beggs school campus and sports complex
Storm damage at Beggs Public Schools left debris across athletic facilities and caused roof damage at the middle school, though no injuries were reported.
'Nightmare fuel' from the deep: Scientists identify two bizarre new sea spider species in the Salish Sea; one has hairy legs and red eyes, while the other is often covered in debris
Two bizarre new sea spider species have been identified in the Salish Sea, including one with long, hair-like spines on its legs and striking red eyes, Science Daily has reported. The other species is often found with dirt, debris and tiny parasites attached to its body.
Temple volunteers prepared local rec centers for spring, summer sports
Students, staff and faculty removed trash and debris from the Dendy and Martin Luther King Recreation Centers in an event organized through the Owls for Philly program.
A Space Disaster Is Coming Unless We Take Kessler Syndrome Seriously
According to a recent analysis, it could plausibly happen in just over a decade. That would not be great.
Learn Science with Dr. V: Flash flood to destruction
Explore how a collapsing Himalayan glacier triggered a fast-moving ice-rock avalanche and debris-laden flash flood, damaging riverside infrastructure.
Health concerns linger as debris remains in Tracy neighborhoods after warehouse fire
County officials say environmental testing is underway as residents continue finding debris and wait for answers about potential health impacts.
Flood-Ravaged Nepal on Alert as Scientists Warn of Additional Risk
Earth scientists are in the early stages of analyzing the devastating debris flow but say it fits a pattern fueled by global warming.
An asteroid could hit the moon in 2032, scattering debris toward Earth
Researchers are keeping an eye on the building-sized asteroid 2024 YR4, which has a 4 percent chance of hitting the moon seven years from now.
See which Westland restaurants failed inspections
Wayne County health inspectors found debris and improper storage at several Westland restaurants this summer.
Chernobyl’s Radioactive Debris Is Defying Scientists’ Expectations 40 Years Later
Some of Chernobyl’s radioactive debris is more resilient than scientists expected, offering clues to when the material trapped inside could escape into the environment. Radioactive dust still contaminates the soil around Chernobyl four decades after explosions scattered debris from the nuclear reactor in Ukraine in 1986. The fragments measure just 8 to 50 micrometers across
An asteroid shattered near Jupiter’s gravitational gateway 800 million years ago; scientists say the debris may have bombarded Earth for 150 million years
A massive asteroid that broke apart around 800 million years ago may have sent a huge number of rocky fragments towards Earth, the Moon and Mars, according to a new study led by researchers at the Southwest Research Institute.
The Material Science Behind A Spacecraft's Impact Armor
Aerospace engineers have to consider numerous factors when designing a spacecraft, but one that comes up more and more often is the need to design against Micro-Meteoroids and Orbital Debris (MMOD). While most designers understand the threat, designing structural solutions capable of withstanding the hypervelocity impacts these undercontrolled pieces of material can cause can take a significant bite out of a mission’s mass budget. A new paper from Binkal Kumar Sharma of the University of Bremen and Harshitha Baskar, an independent researcher, provides a detailed review of cutting-edge options for defending against those deadly particles.
Residents near Maui wildfires show elevated metals linked to impacted lung health, study says
A new study finds that metal mixtures found in smoke, ash and debris after the 2023 Maui wildfires affected human lung health.
Ground Zero responder discusses long-term 9/11 health impacts
A 9/11 volunteer who helped clear debris at Ground Zero is raising awareness about long-term health struggles as the nation prepares to mark 25 years since the attacks.
Lawmakers say White House demolition debris at East Potomac Park poses health risk
Democratic lawmakers are urging the Trump administration to remove demolition debris from East Potomac Park Golf Course, citing health concerns, while the administration says the site poses no public health risk.
Astronomers think they just witnessed two planets colliding
Astronomers have caught what may be a rare cosmic catastrophe unfolding 11,000 light-years away. A seemingly ordinary sun-like star suddenly began flickering wildly, puzzling scientists until they realized the strange dimming was caused by vast clouds of hot dust and debris drifting across the star. The most likely explanation is a violent planetary collision—two worlds smashing together and scattering glowing material throughout the system.
Astronomers watch a massive star collapse into a black hole without a supernova
A massive star 2.5 million light-years away simply vanished — and astronomers now know why. Instead of exploding in a supernova, it quietly collapsed into a black hole, shedding its outer layers in a slow-motion cosmic fade-out. The leftover debris continues to glow in infrared light, offering a long-lasting signal of the black hole’s birth. The finding reshapes our understanding of how some of the universe’s biggest stars meet their end.
Seismometers can track falling space junk
As the threat of falling spacecraft increases, using earthquake sensors to detect the effects of their sonic booms could better map trajectories.
Take a break from opinion-page politics next week
Sometimes I think I’d take tornado season over election season. And that strikes me as an apt comparison as I imagine sheltering beneath a hinged cellar door until the storm has blown over — physically in one sense, mentally in the other. As an example of the debris flying around this season, my inbox was
Addressing cascading mountain hazards requires scientific cooperation across borders
Editor's note: The devastating glacier collapse and ensuing debris flow near the China-Nepal border in August underscored the need for stronger cross-border cooperation in addressing mountain hazards. Against this backdrop, the Global Partnership for
SpaceX moves thousands of Starlink satellites in orbit after near miss with Chinese rival
A SpaceX executive said the move would reduce the "likelihood of collision" with other satellites and space debris.
Residents near Maui wildfires show elevated metals linked to impacted lung health, study says
A new study finds that metal mixtures found in smoke, ash and debris after the 2023 Maui wildfires affected human lung health. Researchers from the University of Hawaii, Honolulu studied
Widow of business owner reports scammers claiming to be representatives from company: Brunswick Hills Townshi
Also in this week’s Brunswick Hills Township Police blotter, a man threatens his neighbor over debris from a ditch.