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NASA Awards Millions to Historically Black Colleges, Universities

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NASA awards 11.7 million to HBCUs to conduct data science research that will contribute to the agency’s Science Mission Directorate missions.
Credits: NASA/Cory Huston

NASA is awarding $11.7 million to eight Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) through the new Data Science Equity, Access, and Priority in Research and Education (DEAP) opportunity. These awards will enable HBCU students and faculty to conduct innovative data science research that contributes to NASA’s missions.

“We’re pleased to make progress through awards like this to intentionally build the STEM pipeline of the future, especially in communities of color,” said NASA Deputy Administrator Pam Melroy. “It’s fitting during Black History Month that we make this tangible step to build on the talent pool at HBCUs in our ongoing work to bring to the table all the talents and perspectives we’ll need to send humans to the Moon, Mars and beyond, and do amazing science throughout the solar system.”

Technology advancements in the field of data science, including the growth of artificial intelligence and machine learning, are poised to significantly impact the work of data scientists and analysts. The awarded projects have up to three years to establish institutes and partnerships to increase the number and research capacity of STEM students at HBCUs, accelerate innovation in a wide range of NASA science, technology, engineering, and mathematic research areas, and prepare the future workforce for data-intensive space-based Earth sciences.

“The increasing use of data science at NASA and beyond really drives home the need for a future workforce with data science knowledge,” said Mike Kincaid, associate administrator of NASA’s Office of STEM Engagement, which manages MUREP. “With our newest collaboration, NASA created an exciting pathway to find new talent at HBCUs.”

The agency’s Minority University Research and Education Project (MUREP) and the Science Mission Directorate collaborated on the DEAP opportunity, and selected the following institutions and their proposed projects:

Bethune-Cookman University Inc., Daytona Beach, Florida

NASA MUREP DEAP Institute of Environmental Intelligence for Advanced Space-based Earth Sciences

The project will establish a DEAP Institute focusing on machine learning-based development of a virtual constellation of satellites that will capture changing water levels, from events such as storm flooding to multi-decadal time scales, such as sea level rise. NASA tracks sea level changes and its causes from space.

Fayetteville State University, Fayetteville, North Carolina

Institute for Multi-agent Perception through Advanced Cyberphysical Technologies (IMPACT)

The IMPACT project will build on existing capacity and collaboration with NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Silicon Valley, California, to engage students and faculty in using data science to address scientific questions as one of the key factors to manage NASA’s Earth mission research.

Florida A & M University, Tallahassee, Florida

Effects of Gravity on Creeping Salts and Salt Mixtures: Developing Image-based and AI-enhanced Diagnostics for Determining Chemical Compositions

This project will rely on artificial intelligence and machine learning to better understand the science of concentrated salt solutions and the formation of ring-like deposits called evaporites. Understanding the science of salt concentrations and formation of evaporites will bring new insight into identifying where water may have existed. Water is a critical source NASA researches and explores to better understand other planets’ surface geology and the potential future of lunar and Martian exploration.

Lincoln University, Jefferson City, Missouri

Using Data Science to Understand Soil, Wildfire, & Social Disparity of Climate Change and Air Pollution

This project aims to provide data science problem-solving, skill development, and professional development of minority and underserved students. Students will utilize existing state-of-the-art ML methods to develop new data analytic approaches to solve some of the core problems in Earth science research.

Morgan State University, Baltimore

Long-Term, High-Resolution Urban Aerosol Database for Research, Education and Outreach

Through innovative data analysis algorithms, including ML/AI methods, this project will produce a high-resolution, open-access, and user-friendly urban aerosol database focusing on the Baltimore-Washington area. The database will also be used in both classroom teaching and scientific outreach, accompanied by online tools and educational materials bringing new, authentic Earth science education to local schools and communities.

North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University, Greensboro, North Carolina

DEAP Institute: Harnessing Data Science for Flood Monitoring and Management

Three North Carolina-based HBCUs will work together on this project developed to harness data science for flood monitoring and management.

North Carolina Central University, Durham, North Carolina

Capacity Building to Support the Machine Learning-Based Detection of Floods and other Natural Hazard Impacts in the Department of Environmental, Earth and Geospatial Sciences at North Carolina Central University

This project will create training, data resources, and opportunities to use machine learning/artificial intelligence to identify and measure the impact of flood events and other natural hazards such as earthquakes, hurricanes, drought, wildfires, and more.

Prairie View A & M University, Prairie View, Texas

DEAP Institute in Research and Education for Science Translation via Low-Resource Neural Machine Translation

This project aims to build an AI-based system that can share interactive, instantaneous, and user-relevant Earth science information, making NASA science more discoverable and accessible to a broad audience.

“NASA is tackling how to use the latest techniques in data science combined with the volumes of data produced by our missions to answer questions about our changing planet,” said Steven Crawford, senior program executive for scientific data and computing. “Working with students from HBCUs will not only engage the generation that will be most affected by these subjects but will help NASA scientists and engineers address these challenges.”

Administered by OSTEM, MUREP supports and invests in the research, academic, and technology capabilities of Minority Serving Institutions. For more information about NASA’s Office of STEM Engagement, visit:

https://stem.nasa.gov

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Celebrating National Panda Day: Conservation of Precious Bears

March 16 is National Panda Day – a celebration of these fluffy, bamboo-munching bears and a reminder to protect their environment. #PandaDay

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Every year on March 16th, we come together to celebrate National Panda Day, a delightful occasion dedicated to honoring China’s beloved bamboo-munching bears. As a source of national pride, pandas hold a special place in our hearts. With two subspecies, including the iconic Giant Panda and the smaller Qinling Panda, these magnificent creatures play an essential role in China’s unique ecosystem. While their population status has improved from endangered to vulnerable, we must remain committed to preserving pandas and their habitat. In this blog post, we will explore the significance of pandas, their conservation efforts, and the importance of safeguarding their environment.

The Significance of Pandas and their Habitat:
Pandas, particularly the Giant Panda, are revered for their fluffy black and white coats and captivating presence. These awe-inspiring animals are exclusive to the remote, mountainous regions of China. The Qinling Panda, a smaller brown subspecies, was discovered in the mountain ranges of southern Shaanxi Province in China in 1985. However, both subspecies have a crucial role to play in their respective ecosystems. Giant pandas, in particular, thrive on bamboo forests, spreading seeds as they roam and promoting the growth of new vegetation. This symbiotic relationship nurtures not only pandas but also benefits other wildlife and humans.

Endangered Status and Conservation Efforts:
While the panda population has shown some promising growth, there are still fewer than 2,000 pandas left in the wild due to various threats. Habitat loss, farming activities, fur hunting, and other factors have jeopardized their existence. To combat this, conservation organizations, including 27 zoos around the world, are actively working towards protecting giant pandas and creating environments conducive to reproduction. However, the most critical aspect of preserving pandas is the conservation of their natural environment, especially bamboo forests, which serve as their primary source of nutrition.

The History and Importance of National Panda Day:
The exact origin of National Panda Day remains unclear, but it is undoubtedly a day dedicated to spreading awareness and appreciating the beauty and significance of pandas. In 1961, the creation of the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) solidified the panda’s global conservation symbol. The panda’s inclusion in the WWF logo was quite fitting, as this animal represents both beauty and endangerment, garnering love from people worldwide. It has become an emblem for the conservation movement, calling upon individuals and nations to protect endangered species and preserve natural wildlife habitats.

Preserving Pandas and Their Ecosystem:
While pandas are now classified as vulnerable, the battle to protect them is far from over. The efforts of zoos, reforestation initiatives, and conservation campaigns have contributed to the positive change in their status. However, it is crucial to continue protecting their environment. Preservation of the giant panda’s natural habitat not only safeguards the bears themselves but also supports the survival of 70% of the country’s forest birds, 70% of mammals, and 31% of amphibians, according to a scientific paper published by The Society for Conservation Biology in 2015. Pandas are essential for forest health, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure their well-being.


National Panda Day serves as a reminder of the remarkable role pandas play in our natural world. While progress has been made, the conservation journey is ongoing. We must remain steadfast in protecting pandas and their environment to secure their long-term survival. By raising awareness, supporting conservation efforts, and advocating for the preservation of bamboo forests, we can create a future where these adorable, bamboo-munching bears continue to thrive and contribute to the vibrant ecosystems of China and the world. Let’s celebrate National Panda Day and join hands in safeguarding these precious creatures for generations to come.

https://nationaltoday.com/national-panda-day/

https://stmdailynews.com/category/stories-this-moment/

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Unveiling the Mysteries of Comet 12P/Pons Brooks: The Devil Comet’s Rare Celestial Show

Explore the enigmatic beauty of Comet 12P/Pons Brooks, the “Devil Comet,” as it graces our skies with rare eruptions and celestial displays.

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Comet 12P/Pons Brooks, known as the “devil comet,” is an intriguing celestial visitor that has captured the attention of astronomers and stargazers alike. This comet, with a diameter of about 10.5 miles (17 kilometers), follows a highly elliptical orbit around the sun, completing its journey approximately every 71 years. What sets 12P apart is its cryovolcanic nature – an ice volcano in space.

Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks photographed by the Virtual Telescope Project facility in Manciano, Italy on March 2, 2024. (Image credit: Gianluca Masi/Virtual Telescope Project)

The icy shell of 12P occasionally erupts due to solar radiation, releasing a mix of ice and gas known as cryomagma into space. This process significantly expands the comet’s coma, the cloud of gas and dust surrounding its nucleus, making it appear brighter for a few days. In July 2023, astronomers witnessed 12P erupt after nearly 70 years, with subsequent eruptions occurring more frequently.

During earlier eruptions, the comet’s expanded coma gave it a unique appearance resembling demonic horns. However, recent observations show that these horns seem to have vanished, replaced by a distinctive green glow caused by high levels of dicarbon in its coma and tail, a rare phenomenon in comets.

For sky watchers in the Northern Hemisphere, viewing opportunities are optimal before April 21, when 12P makes its closest approach to the sun. Post this date, the comet will become visible to those in the Southern Hemisphere until the year’s end. To catch a glimpse, head to the countryside away from city lights. While visible to the naked eye, binoculars can enhance the viewing experience.


12P has surprised observers with unexpected brightness, including a rare flare that transformed its gas cloud into a horseshoe shape, earning it monikers like the Devil Comet or Millennium Falcon Comet. Additional flares have been detected, hinting at potential future surprises as the comet approaches Earth.

The cause of these flare-ups remains a mystery, with some astronomers speculating about rare volcanic activity on the comet’s surface. When planning a stargazing outing, target days closest to a new moon to avoid moonlight interference. Checking the weather forecast is essential to ensure clear skies for optimal viewing conditions.

Upon arrival at your stargazing spot, allow your eyes time to adjust to the darkness, especially if you’ve been exposed to bright screens. Patience is key, as celestial wonders like Comet 12P/Pons Brooks often reveal themselves gradually, rewarding those willing to wait.

As you gaze at this unique cosmic spectacle, reflect on the transient nature of comets and the vast mysteries of the universe they represent. The journey of Comet 12P serves as a poignant reminder of the beauty and unpredictability of celestial phenomena, inviting us to marvel at the wonders of the cosmos and contemplate our place within it.

https://www.space.com/watch-comet-12p-pons-brooks-zoom-past-andromeda-galaxy-livestream

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Worms in Chernobyl Develop Immunity to Radiation: A Fascinating Study

Scientists find worms near Chernobyl with immunity to radiation, sparking questions on natural adaptation and genetic resilience in extreme conditions.

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In a groundbreaking study conducted near the Chernobyl nuclear disaster zone, scientists have made a startling discovery: worms living in the area appear to have developed immunity to radiation. These tiny nematodes, with their simple genetic makeup and rapid reproduction rate, are showing remarkable resilience in the face of extreme environmental conditions.

The research, led by Dr. Sophia Tintor from New York University, involved collecting worms from various sources within the Chernobyl region and analyzing their response to varying levels of radiation. Despite the high levels of radiation present in the area, the genomes of these worms remained largely undamaged, prompting questions about the impact of such environmental stressors on local populations.

The study raises intriguing questions about the mechanisms behind this newfound resilience. Could the environmental changes post-disaster have favored the selection of species or individuals naturally more resistant to ionizing radiation? The findings hint at the possibility of a unique capacity within these worms to protect and repair their genetic material, offering insights into natural variation and adaptation in response to extreme conditions.

While the discovery of radiation-immune worms does not imply Chernobyl is now safe for habitation, it does shed light on the astonishing resilience of these creatures. More research is needed to delve deeper into the genetic mechanisms at play and to understand the broader implications of this fascinating development.

The study marks a significant step towards unraveling the complex interplay between organisms and their environment in the aftermath of ecological disasters. By studying these remarkable worms, scientists hope to gain a better understanding of evolution, adaptation, and the potential for life to thrive in even the harshest of conditions.

As we continue to explore the mysteries of Chernobyl and its impact on biodiversity, the story of these radiation-immune worms serves as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of life in the face of adversity.

Source: The Independent

https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/europe/worms-chernobyl-nuclear-power-plant-explosion-b2510463.html

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