The moon is the natural satellite of the earth. You may have noticed that the moon is slightly different every other day. This is because the moon is going through phases.
What is a moon phase?
To understand the reason for the different phases of the moon, you need to understand what a moon cycle is.
Firstly, the moon does not have its light. It reflects the light of the sun. The sun’s rays hit the moon and this is why we can see the moon shine at night.
Secondly, the moon orbits the Earth. It orbits the Earth. Because it is constantly in motion, not all of the moon receives sunlight. This is why we see only a part of the moonshine. The part of the moon that receives the sunlight is the part of the moon you can see from the earth.
What are the different phases of the moon?
Phases of the moon
New moon: This is when the unilluminated face of the moon faces the earth. This is when you see no moon in the sky.
Waxing Crescent: This is when you see the silver of the moon in the sky. When the day-part of the moon is mostly facing away from the earth. This is called a crescent moon and looks like a ‘C’.
First Quarter: The first quarter moon is also known as the half-moon. You can see more of the moon than just a crescent. It rises at noon and sets at midnight.
Waxing Gibbous: The waxing gibbous moon phase is more illuminated than a ‘half-moon’. It is not a complete full moon, but it is not a half moon either.
Full moon: During the full moon phase, the illuminated side of the moon faces the earth and we see a full, circular moon. It tends to light up the night with its silver light.
Waning Gibbous: This is when the moon is turning away again. The moon decreases in size and this phase comes after the full-moon phase.
Third Quarter: The third quarter is also known as the last quarter. The half-illuminated portion of the moon faces the Earth, making the moon look half.
Waning Crescent: During the waning crescent moon phase, you can see only silver or white. This is because only a small portion of the moon faces the earth, making a small crescent illuminated and visible.
What are moon cycles and moon phases?
The moon cycle is the cycle of the moon around the sun.
It takes about 28 days for the moon to orbit the Earth. As the moon orbits the Earth, the moon tends to change its phases. There are 8 different phases of the moon; four primary phases and four secondary phases.
The moon does not have its light. It reflects the light of the sun. And because it is continuously orbiting the Earth, only part of the moon receives the sunlight. The moon absorbs the sunlight and reflects a portion of it. It is this portion of the reflected sunlight that we see from Earth.
Conclusion
It takes 29.5 days for a moon to orbit the Earth. During this moon cycle, the moon goes through 8 different phases. The earth is interesting in itself but, even the heavenly body outside is equally amazing.
FAQs
1. What are the 8 moon cycles?
The 8 moon cycles are waxing crescent, first quarter, waxing gibbous, full moon, waning gibbous, third quarter, and waning crescent.
2. Are all the moon cycles 28 days?
It usually takes 29.5 days for a moon to cycle the Earth. During the sidereal month, it takes 27 days, 7 hours, and 43 minutes to orbit the earth and complete a cycle.
3. How long is a 12-moon cycle?
A lunar year or 12-moon cycle takes about 354 days.
4. Are moon cycles monthly?
Yes, moon cycles complete in a month.
5. What is a full moon cycle?
It is the time interval between a full moon and the repetition of the same phase. It lasts about 29.53 days.
You may be well acquainted with bright colorful fighting fish, even if you are not a fish enthusiast. These fish are Betta Fish. They were initially discovered in Southeast Asia but were later exported to America in the 1800s because of their beautiful appearance and unique nature.
1. Betta Fish originate from Southeast Asia.
these fish are not native to America. They are found in Southeast Asian countries like Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand.
Betta Fish can be found in almost every fish store and aquarium in the USA. But despite their availability, these fish are not native to America. They are found in Southeast Asian countries like Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand.
They are found in puddles and paddy fields and have been known to live in harsh conditions. No wonder their average lifespan ranges from 4-5 years.
2. Betta Fish are also known as Siamese fighting fish.
Their name comes from the territorial nature of the fish. Female fish can stay in groups until the places become crowded.
This may not come as a surprise because betta fish are known as fighting fish worldwide. Their name comes from the territorial nature of the fish. Female fish can stay in groups until the places become crowded. But male betta are very territorial. They fight each other for breeding grounds.
Betta Fish are known as ‘Siamese Fish’. They were bred to fight and even the King of Thailand enjoyed watching them fight.
3. Male Betta Fish are loving dads.
Betta fish turn a leaf for their children. The male betta fish takes care of the eggs and raises them.
Although they are known as ‘fighting fish’, Betta fish turn a leaf for their children. The male betta fish takes care of the eggs and raises them. He makes bubble nests and ensures that none of the eggs go astray.
Betta fish may be territorial and they may be feisty little fish, but they have a soft spot for their babies. The mela Betta fish keeps the eggs in the bubble nest they’ve built and protects them fiercely.
4. Betta fish have both labyrinth organs and gills.
Infographics explanation of Betta fish both labyrinth organs and gills.
Their labyrinth organ allows them to breathe air without using gills. The labyrinth organ is similar to the lungs, allowing Betta Fish to breathe even when out of water. But they need water to survive and mainly depend on oxygen to survive.
Betta Fish are known to survive an hour on land. This shows how tough these marvelous creations can be.
5. Betta fish can jump 3 inches high on average.
Betta fish can jump 3 inches high on average.
Betta Fish are not just intelligent but athletic too(as athletic as a fish can get). If they do not like the environment of the aquarium or if they are constantly being dominated by other Betta Fish or other territorial Fish, they can jump out of the water. They do this in search of better living space.
Betta fish can jump 3 inches high and that is on average. If you own a Betta and see them out of the aquarium, it is a sign that something is not right with the aquarium. It could be a lack of enrichment or harsh water with high nitrate contents.
6. Betta fish can learn the tricks.
Betta fish can learn the tricks.
They need a lot of enrichment because they are highly intelligent fish. It has been noticed that these intelligent fish can recognize their owners and swim toward them. This is a reason why the betta fish tank needs to have proper enrichment like caves, rocks driftwood, etc.
7. Betta fish are carnivores
These beautiful fish that look like angels are carnivores.
These beautiful fish that look like angels are carnivores. Many betta fish owners who need to do proper research, make a common mistake of not providing the proper diet. These fish have sharp teeth meant for a carnivore diet.
Unfortunately, this leads to the fish falling sick and even dying in extreme conditions. They should not have worms and small insects in addition to the packaged fish food. Packaged food does not contain the essential nutrients that it is for us.
8. Betta fish have over 70 different variation
Betta fish have over 70 different variation
Betta fish has over 70 different variations. The Betta Fish in the market are comparatively more colorful than the ones found in the wild. It makes sense, the ones in the market are selectively bred to look more appealing to the eyes, and the ones in the wild need to camouflage in the wild to survive.
And they have about 14 different tail variations. The different varieties are made because of selective breeding to get a certain color or a certain shape like crown tail, comb tail, etc.
Conclusion
Betta Fish are lovely and it is natural to want them as companion pets. But, you need to be very conscious and alert if you get them as pets. They require at least 10 gallons of water and if you pair them wrong, it could stress both of them and make them sick.
Moreover, it is the diet you need to focus on too. They have small larvae and insects in the wild and you need to incorporate them into their regular diet and not just depend on the packaged die.
FAQs
1. What is special about betta fish?
The labyrinth lungs allow them to breathe out of water. They can survive without water for 1 hour.
2. What cool things can betta fish do?
Betta fish can learn tricks and they can jump 3 inches high on average.
3. How smart is a betta fish?
A betta fish can learn tricks like going through hoops recognizing their owners and swimming toward them.
4. What keeps beta fish happy?
Betta Fish need a lot of enrichment and space to be happy.
5. Is Betta Fish lucky at home?
Betta Fish is considered to be lucky and bring prosperity.
There are approximately over 5 trillion pieces of plastic debris in the ocean. These unattained plastics can break into microplastics which will affect marine life.
However, the problem does not just end there, these microplastics will enter our food chain, which will affect the health of the people. It affects the metabolism, fertility, and neurological function of the body.
For this reason, there are many institutions, governmental, non-profit, and private that care about the well-being of our ocean. This passion has created technologies that aim to clear the ocean quickly and efficiently. There are many benefits if we stop using plastic items and recycle them instead, we can all help to keep our planet safe.
This blog will explore the technologies used to clean up plastic from the ocean. It’s crucial to keep our oceans clean as it’s an urgent and alarming situation that affects the ecosystem.
What are some technologies used to clean up plastic from the ocean?
Floating Barrier by Ocean Cleanup
Technologies used to clean up plastic from the ocean
The floating barrier is a net that is meant to stop the plastics from floating into the ocean. They are made from nylon and trap stray plastics in the ocean. If you wonder if this would disturb the fish, no it doesn’t. It is specially designed so that the fish can move through the net.
The interceptor by Ocean Cleanup
Interceptor: Technologies used to clean up plastic from the ocean
The Ocean Cleanup does not just collect plastic garbage from the ocean. They know that by not allowing the plastics from the river to enter the ocean more than 50% of the plastics can be tackled.
It is a barrier in about 1000 rivers, which does not let the plastics get to the ocean. It is U-shaped and placed in the mouth of the rivers to prevent any plastics from floating into the ocean.
4Ocean Pixie Drone
This drone has helped combat the plastic debris in the ocean. This drone can carry material that is 0.12 inches. They can be both remote-controlled or fully automated. Another perk of this aquatic drone is that it can also detect oil spills and can also help us remove them from the water body.
4Ocean Collec’thor
The Collector is another one of 4Ocean’s technologies that aid in keeping plastic out of the water. These ocean waste collectors have no problem running all day. They are quiet so they do not have much impact on marine life. It can carry about 100 kg of waste and is efficient in power consumption too.
4Ocean BeBot
BeBot is one of the more advanced technologies that is used to keep the ocean clean and plastic-free. These robots tirelessly sift through the sands on the beach to locate plastic and debris that are left behind by the people or that may have found their way onto the beach themselves.
It does not release any toxins and operates quietly, making them safe for the flora and fauna on the beach.
What can you do to keep the plastics out of the ocean?
Switch to an eco-friendly alternative in your everyday life
Change begins with you. If you want to make a difference, it should start with you. You cannot preach what you do not follow, that would make you a hypocrite. Some brands use sustainable and eco-friendly packaging, you can begin by supporting these brands.
Influence people to reduce plastic consumption
Many times it is people’s lack of awareness that is making them make the wrong choice. People may have heard ‘plastic is bad’ but may not know what ‘microplastics’ are or how serious ‘the plastic problem’ is to marine life.
Don’t be pushy with the knowledge you have or you can come off as a bigot who is annoying. Just let them know about the alternatives and how they would help themselves and the environment if they make a change.
Take part in clean-up programs
So many institutions are conducting campaigns to clean the oceans and reduce plastic waste in the ocean. Some campaigns are; the Clean Sea CAmpaign, Parley for the Ocean, End Plastic Pollution Campaign and Save the Ocean Campaign. You can also look up for campaigns near you on social media.
You can go on the government site or follow non-profit organizations to keep up with the campaigns so you can make a difference too. There is power in numbers and it does not just make things easier for them but it also increases their credibility.
Support activists and people who genuinely want things to change
You will notice that people will just do things for the gram and publicity. This affects the image of real activists who want to change things for marine life. See who is passionate and genuine and attempt to support them.
You can make donations to support them or tell them how their work is making a positive change and how it has changed your perspective too.
We are aware of the technological advancement that aims to make our lives comfortable. It is high time that we learn about technologies that aim to make the world a better place for both us and the life that we share our earth with. The technologies mentioned in the article are some of the many technologies used to clean up plastic from the ocean.
We need to understand that the ocean getting sick means that we will fall ill too. How we treat marine life, will get us in the long run. There is an equilibrium in the ecosystem and eliminating even the smallest of organisms will threaten the balance and our well-being.
It is a campaign by the Mirpuri Foundation that promotes smart fishing and the creation of new marine reserves.
What is being done to clean up plastics in the ocean?
A non-profit organization has been making technological advancements to remove plastics in the ocean.
What is the ocean cleanup invention?
It is also known as the Slat invention which consists of a giant tube made of durable nylon and plastic screen which is meant to trap plastic garbage in the ocean. This does not trap fish.
What is the new technology to break down plastic?
Scientists have developed an artificial ‘worm gut’ that will supposedly break down plastics.
Has the ocean clean-up been successful?
The ocean clean-up project has collected about 8,000,000 kg worth of plastic waste. This shows that this campaign is indeed successful.
What technology is against plastic pollution?
Technologies like the floating barrier help the ocean become plastic-free. Drones and satellites are also used to help spot the plastics in the ocean to get them removed.
We are designed for comfort but, ironically no amount of comfort is ever enough. It is this need for ease that straws were invented. It is such a minute invention but, it had a drastic impact on the lives of the people and the economy.
This invention also helped people who were physically unable to properly drink liquid items on their own, drink themselves with no help. However, the material used for making these straws is what became a problem in the long run. In this blog, you will know the environmental benefits if society stops using plastic straws.
How widely are plastic straws used?
How widely are plastic straws used?
Plastic straws were invented in the 1960s, as a substitute for paper straws. Straws were trendy and also made it easier for people who needed external help to drink. Straws are still used today.
According to a study done in 2020, 500 million plastic straws were used in the United States alone, which increased in Europe to 25.3 billion plastic straws. These numbers prove that these straws are essential and have become a part of people’s everyday lives.
So, even with the diverse effects that plastic straws have on the environment, people, and animals, it is not something that people can give up easily.
What are the environmental benefits if society stops using plastic straws?
There are many environmental benefits if society stops using plastic straws, we can help protect our planet and also protect lots of lives affected by the use of plastic. Some of the benefits of not using plastic straws are as follows:
Microplastic consumption
Microplastic consumption
Plastic straws increase your consumption of microplastic. Microplastics are small and you may not even feel that you are consuming them, but in the long run, it will affect metabolism and immunity. These compounds are very toxic and can also affect your neurology and fertility.
You do not have to give up on straws completely, you can go for safer, non-plastic alternatives that you can find in the market. But, please try and avoid them for your sake and your children’s sake.
Saving the animals
Saving the animals
A turtle being spotted with a plastic straw in its nostril was what created an uproar in social media which instigated people to give up using plastic straws and forced industries to switch to a safe environment-friendly alternative. But it is not just the turtles in the sea that are affected by plastic straws.
Poor animals cannot distinguish between food and straws. This makes plastic straws a choking hazard for animals which could lead to their excruciating death. Both marine life and land animals are affected by improper disposal of plastic straws.
Protecting the environment
Protecting the environment
We know that plastics are non-biodegradable and will take hundreds of years to disintegrate. Plastic straws are a problem for the environment too. They are widely used and on a massive scale.
Unfortunately, they are one-time use only and this increases their quantity in the landfills. Plastic straws take a while to disintegrate and do not ass any nutritional value to the soil.
This means they serve no higher purpose other than helping you finish your drink in 15 minutes, and becoming a burden to the land.
What are the possible alternatives to using a plastic straw?
Sip-friendly cups
The largest Coffeehouse chain incorporated a different type of takeaway cups that do not need straws. Many places can follow this and start using such cups so people don’t have to use straws.
Paper straws
Paper straws
Paper straws are another alternative to plastic straws. They can be recycled and are biodegradable, meaning they do not harm the environment.
However, there is a little setback with paper straws which marks it not the first option for people wanting to switch to environmental-friendly straws.
Edible straws
Edible straws
Edible straws are the outcome of the need to use less plastic straws. Plastic straws are non-degradable and edible straws can be eaten! It’s the same function with different results. Kwang-phil Kim came up with the idea of edible straws and he created the ‘ric straws’ in 2018.
These straws are made from 70% flour and 30% tapioca flour and do not alter the flavor of the drink. You can simply munch on them or discard them after use without worry because these are 100% degradable.
Papaya leaf stem
Papaya leaf stem
This is perfect for summer mocktails and cocktails. You can use papaya leaf stems as straws for your drinks too. They are biodegradable and elevate the visuals of your drinks too. It adds a bohemian vibe to your drinks.
Plastic straws may not seem like much they hurt a lot of things. Many people may argue that there is no difference in the use of alternative straws, but that is not the case. The results may not be visible now, but once you make the switch, you will feel the difference in months.
Initially, it is the good feeling of doing something good for the environment and animals who cannot advocate for themselves. But later, you feel the physical difference it makes too. Even if it is one less turtle in pain because you chose to not use plastic straws, that is a difference made.
How much damage do plastic straws do to the environment?
About 1500 metric tons of plastic is said to be out in the ocean by 2025 and this means 1 pound of plastic for every 3 pounds of fish. This greatly affects marine life, which in turn will affect life on land too.
What are the positive effects of plastic straws?
It is hygienic because it is used once and discarded, but you cannot deny that you will be consuming a small amount of microplastic each time you use a plastic straw.
Is banning straws effective?
As of now, we do not see much of a difference even after the use of alternative straws. But this does not mean a difference is not being made. It is the beginning of enforcing plastic alternatives in other packaging too.
Why are straws important?
Straws help you drink without spillage and it helps people with mobility issues to drink independently.
What can you use instead of plastic straws?
There are so many different alternatives to plastic straws today; you can use edible straws, papaya stems, or even paper straws.
Our universe is so big and many events are constantly taking place. We may not be able to experience all of them because of how vast the universe is. Watching a total solar eclipse is one such celestial event.
People have always been fascinated by this for many years and this year is no different. The total solar eclipse of 2024 is said to last twice the normal eclipse so, here are some precautions you should take before watching the eclipse.
What is a total solar eclipse?
A total solar eclipse occurs when the moon comes in between the earth and the moon. This causes the shadow of the moon to be cast on a portion of the earth. A rare total eclipse is going to take place on April 8, 2024. Parts of the world will be able to experience this celestial event.
What makes it so unique and different from the rest of the eclipse is the length of the eclipse. This eclipse is said to be twice as long as a normal eclipse. But before going out to see this eclipse, you need to keep a few things in mind. Here are a few things you need to make sure are in check.
Things you need to know before watching a total solar eclipse
Glasses with solar filters
It is advised that you get glasses with a solar filter. You may think you could use any of your goggles to watch the eclipse, but that is not the case. All the glasses cannot filter the radiation of the sun that would permanently or temporarily damage your eyesight.
Solar eclipse needs special glasses to safely watch. And even though 3D glasses look similar to eclipse glasses, you should not use them.
Time of the total eclipse
Keep track of the time of the eclipse. They do not last very long so double-check the time of the eclipse so that you don’t miss out. This is a very rare event; if you have the chance, you should make sure you experience this surreal celestial event. It is said to begin at 11:07 am, starting at Mexico’s Pacific coast.
If you live in the United States, make sure you get your eclipse glasses ready before noon. And if you’re in Canada, you will be experiencing the eclipse from around 2 pm which will end in the evening. Keep yourself updated with the eclipse news so you don’t miss out.
The 2024 total solar eclipse can be seen in many cities across North America. Here are some important places and the times when the eclipse will happen there.
The data information is sourced from the NASA website.
USA total eclipse time:
Location
Partial Begins
Totality Begins
Maximum
Totality Ends
Partial Ends
Dallas, Texas
12:23 p.m. CDT
1:40 p.m. CDT
1:42 p.m. CDT
1:44 p.m. CDT
3:02 p.m. CDT
Idabel, Oklahoma
12:28 p.m. CDT
1:45 p.m. CDT
1:47 p.m. CDT
1:49 p.m. CDT
3:06 p.m. CDT
Little Rock, Arkansas
12:33 p.m. CDT
1:51 p.m. CDT
1:52 p.m. CDT
1:54 p.m. CDT
3:11 p.m. CDT
Poplar Bluff, Missouri
12:39 p.m. CDT
1:56 p.m. CDT
1:56 p.m. CDT
2:00 p.m. CDT
3:15 p.m. CDT
Paducah, Kentucky
12:42 p.m. CDT
2:00 p.m. CDT
2:01 p.m. CDT
2:02 p.m. CDT
3:18 p.m. CDT
Carbondale, Illinois
12:42 p.m. CDT
1:59 p.m. CDT
2:01 p.m. CDT
2:03 p.m. CDT
3:18 p.m. CDT
Evansville, Indiana
12:45 p.m. CDT
2:02 p.m. CDT
2:04 p.m. CDT
2:05 p.m. CDT
3:20 p.m. CDT
Cleveland, Ohio
1:59 p.m. EDT
3:13 p.m. EDT
3:15 p.m. EDT
3:17 p.m. EDT
4:29 p.m. EDT
Erie, Pennsylvania
2:02 p.m. EDT
3:16 p.m. EDT
3:18 p.m. EDT
3:20 p.m. EDT
4:30 p.m. EDT
Buffalo, New York
2:04 p.m. EDT
3:18 p.m. EDT
3:20 p.m. EDT
3:22 p.m. EDT
4:32 p.m. EDT
Burlington, Vermont
2:14 p.m. EDT
3:26 p.m. EDT
3:27 p.m. EDT
3:29 p.m. EDT
4:37 p.m. EDT
Lancaster, New Hampshire
2:16 p.m. EDT
3:27 p.m. EDT
3:29 p.m. EDT
3:30 p.m. EDT
4:38 p.m. EDT
Caribou, Maine
2:22 p.m. EDT
3:32 p.m. EDT
3:33 p.m. EDT
3:34 p.m. EDT
4:40 p.m. EDT
Canada total eclipse time:
Location
Partial Begins
Total Begins
Maximum
Total Ends
Partial Ends
New Brunswick, Fredericton
2:21 PM ADT
4:32 PM ADT
4:38 PM ADT
4:38 PM ADT
5:43 PM ADT
Ontario, Sault Ste. Marie
12:54 PM EDT
3:12 PM EDT
3:27 PM EDT
3:27 PM EDT
4:36 PM EDT
Quebec, Montreal
2:08 PM EDT
3:24 PM EDT
3:24 PM EDT
3:24 PM EDT
5:44 PM ADT
Nova Scotia, Halifax
3:23 PM ADT
4:39 PM ADT
4:41 PM ADT
4:41 PM ADT
5:46 PM ADT
Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown
3:26 PM ADT
4:35 PM ADT
4:38 PM ADT
4:38 PM ADT
5:44 PM ADT
Newfoundland, St. John’s
2:25 PM EDT
5:09 PM NDT
5:16 PM NDT
5:16 PM NDT
6:18 PM NDT
Mexico total eclipse time:
Location
Partial Begins
Total Begins
Maximum
Total Ends
Partial Ends
Mazatlán, Sinaloa
10:28 AM MDT
12:28 PM MDT
12:30 PM MDT
12:32 PM MDT
2:00 PM MDT
Durango, Durango
10:51 AM MDT
12:08 PM CST
12:23 PM CST
12:23 PM CST
1:43 PM CST
Torreón, Coahuila
10:58 AM CST
12:16 PM CST
12:32 PM CST
12:32 PM CST
1:51 PM CST
Please keep in mind that these times are close estimates and might differ a bit depending on where you are in the city. Make sure to watch the eclipse safely by using suitable eye protection!
Making an eclipse projector
You can also have fun in the eclipse and do a little science project and make an eclipse projector. To make this, you need to cover a small hole in a cardboard box and cover it with aluminum foil. Create a small hole in the foil and hold it against the sun so light can pass through it.
This will project an image of the sun on the second piece of cardboard. You may have to adjust the distance between the two pieces to get a clear image. Now you can see the eclipse safely.
Protect your skin
If you’re in the Southwest region, then you could be in the sun for a while. So, keep your sunscreen ready and keep an umbrella close by. You will be grateful for the shade you have. If you don’t, you could get sunburnt and they are not fun.
Keep your camera on standby
The total eclipse will last for a time less than you expect it to last. So, keep all of your equipment ready. The eclipse of April 8 2024 is supposed to last for twice as long as a normal eclipse.
Which parts of the world will experience the total solar eclipse of 2024?
Mexico’s Pacific coast is going to experience a total solar eclipse at around 11:07 a.m. PDT. Then the eclipse will go across the United States, touching down in Texas, and journeying through Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine.
The eclipse will then make its way into Canada, gracing Southern Ontario, and continuing through Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Cape Breton. Finally, as the sun sets, the eclipse will end on continental North America on the Atlantic coast of Newfoundland, Canada, at 5:16 p.m. NDT.
It is a remarkable event that you cannot miss out on. Mark the date on the calendar, and make a checklist of things you need to keep in mind before looking at the total solar eclipse. Let your close friends and family know about it too!
Make sure you are well-equipped to see the solar eclipse. You will need solar-filter eclipse glasses, sunscreen, and an umbrella to have a pleasant experience.
What should we not do during the solar eclipse?
You should not look directly at the sun during the solar eclipse. It can blind you partially or fully(temporarily or permanently).
Is it safe to look at a total solar eclipse?
Even if it is dark, it is not safe to look at a total solar eclipse without specialized protection.
What happens during a total eclipse?
During a total solar eclipse, the moon comes in between the earth and the sun which casts a shadow on the earth.
Should I look at the eclipse?
You can watch the eclipse with eclipse-safe equipment, even your camera needs protection.
How rare is a total eclipse?
An eclipse occurs every 1.5 years.
Should I not go out during the solar eclipse?
You can go out during the solar eclipse but do not look at the eclipse with naked eyes.
Being an astronaut is such an amazing thing, you get to explore the world outside of the one we reside in. It is natural to want to know more about them. This article will walk you through 10 surprising facts about astronauts that are sure to blow your mind.
1. The oldest man in Space
John Glenn was the oldest man to be in outer space. He was 77 years old when he took off in Space Shuttle Discovery. There truly is no age limit for things you are passionate about.
2. First meal on the moon
Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin were the first astronauts on the moon. They landed on the moon on July 20, 1996. They had bacon cubes, peaches, 3 sugar cookies, a pineapple grapefruit drink, and coffee for their first meal.
3. The time machine effect
According to Einstein’s theory of relativity, astronauts in space go back 10 million seconds in time, but they get back to normal when they enter the Earth’s atmosphere. Every time an astronaut circles the earth’s orbit, they return a few seconds.
4. Skin peeling off of astronauts
This may not be a popular news but, the skin of the astronauts in space tends to peel. This is because they do not walk like on Earth, making their soles feel soft and flakey. This does not usually smell or irritate, but they keep this in check using steroid cream.
5. Weightlessness in space
The astronauts feel intensely weightless because the fluids in the body get distributed. The blood and lymph in the legs get redistributed by the pressure. This makes them feel nauseous and sick. This weightlessness is not the best sensation and causes severe disorientation. It takes time for the astronauts to get used to it.
6. Chocolatier in Space
Helen Sharman worked at Mars, a chocolate bar company. He was a chemist there. When she heard of the opening for applicants to be the first British explorer, she applied and was selected out of 13,000 applicants. She was only 26 years old and went out into the space more than just once.
7. Valentina Tereshkova’s whereabouts
When Valentina left for training to become an astronaut, she told her mother that she was in camp training to be a pro skydiver. It was later when the entire landing was what Tereshkova was training for. She was shocked when she saw her daughter in space when the shuttle orbited the Earth.
8. Height requirement
Not every passionate person can be an astronaut. There are several checklists that they need to clear before they are considered to be a part of the space team. Height is one such requirement. The astronauts need to be taller than 5’2 feet. But not every tall person gets a pass. You cannot be an astronaut if you are taller than 6’3 feet.
9. Astronauts from the first moon landing were in quarantine
People did not know much about space, so naturally the first astronauts who landed on the moon on Apollo 11 were quarantined when they returned from space. This was to ensure that the astronauts were not infected with any deadly virus or radiation. They continued doing this till Apollo 14, after which they declared that the moon did not affect the astronaut’s health in a contagious way.
10. Coming back to earth is very overwhelming
Space is an empty vacuum and you don’t have much sound in the rocket too. So when astronauts come back home, it is not just the sense of being back that feels overwhelming but it is the noise and all the other earthly sounds. It is not just the physical body that needs time to adjust, it is the mental health that needs time for adjustments too.
These were some of the surprising facts about astronauts. You probably learned something new. Being an astronomer is a very cool job, but it comes with a lot of work. Some people are driven like Valentina and John Glenn, but their gender or age did not stop them from pursuing what their hearts desired.
Our brain is the most powerful organ of our body. It helps us learn and navigate life. When we think about someone who made a scientific breakthrough like Albert Einstein, it is natural to think about how his brain functioned. Here we take you through the brain of this great intellect who contributed to much in the scientific field.
How did we get all the information about Albert Einstein’s brain?
After Albert Einstein died in 1955, his brain was swiftly extracted in 7.5 hours. The pathologist, Dr. Thomas Stoltz Harvey, performed the autopsy and took great care to preserve Einstein’s brain.
Dr. Harvey painstakingly divided the brain into about 240 slides and covered them with collodion, a material that resembles plastic. He also took pictures of the brain from different perspectives to be studied and examined further. He did not make any discoveries but he did create 2400 slides of Einstein’s brain tissue and distributed them to other scientists close to him.
What did Albert Einstein’s brain reveal?
The left side of the hippocampus had larger neurons than the right side. It is used for analytical thinking and solving mathematical equations.
His corpus callosum, the nerve fibers connecting the two parts of the brain was thicker than average. This thicker callosum was probably the reason why he had great cognitive skills and was ambidextrous.
He had more glial cells than an average person. An average human has 40–130 billion glial cells while Alberat Einstein had comparatively more. These cells nourish and protect the neurons, and this may have caused Einstein to think more effectively than the rest of the people.
Even at the ripe age of 70, his brain did not produce lipofuscin. These pigments in the brain tissue are signs of wear and tear and some with old age. Surprisingly, Einstein had none!
The mind-blowing fact about Einstein is that studies proved that Einstein’s brain is different from the rest of the people in many ways. But saying he was just blessed or got lucky would be taking away the credit he rightly deserved. Your body is what you make of it and so is your brain.
Research done by Dr. Diamond showed that your cerebral configuration greatly affects how much enrichment and stimulation you provide your brain with and what content you consume; this is called the ‘plasticity of the brain’. This is change and improvement at any age.
Albert Einstein’s brain serves as an example of how much we can accomplish if we maintain our curiosity and never stop learning. His narrative demonstrates to us the value of curiosity and hard work in achieving our objectives. Albert Einstein’s mind demonstrates to us that anyone can achieve incredible things with a great deal of curiosity and diligence.
His narrative encourages us to keep striving and learning no matter where we are in life. By maintaining our curiosity and never giving up on our goals, we can all aspire to greatness.
A theory explaining why Einstein’s brain, which remained intact after he died in 1955, was able to do such amazing mental feats as formulating the theory of relativity and other laws of physics has been developed by scientists who have reexamined his brain.
What was done with Einstein’s brain?
Harvey kept most of the brain tissue in a jar inside a cider box. The dismembered brain was subsequently restored to the Einstein heirs, who swiftly donated it to the Mütter Medical Museum in Philadelphia, as Frederick Lepore detailed in his 2018 book, “Finding Einstein’s Brain.”
Why was Einstein so smart?
His brain was thicker in several areas than usual, which would indicate that his two hemispheres were more strongly connected. Along with J., he co-wrote a top-secret document in 1947 on what to do if humans make contact with aliens.
Was Einstein’s left or right brain?
Neither Einstein nor Benjamin are left- or right-brained. They are both dimwitted. Furthermore, with their obsessive study of their subjects, their theories and creations were realized.
What is Einstein’s IQ?
Since Einstein never participated in an intelligence test, most theorists estimate his IQ to be between 160 and 190.
What were Einstein’s last words?
“Ich liege in den Händen eines Schicksals, das ich nicht beeinflussen kann. Ich mache mir aber keine Illusionen mehr” which translates to “I am at the mercy of fate and have no control over it.
Why did the doctor keep Einstein’s brain?
Harvey persuaded Hans Albert, Albert’s eldest son, to permit him to preserve the brain so he could look into possible biological explanations for Einstein’s genius.
Did Einstein have a big brain?
According to Anderson and Harvey (1996), Einstein’s brain weight is 1230 g, which is smaller than the youthful control group’s (1374.13 ± 111.56 g) but still rather similar to the mean brain weight of the senior control group (1219 ± 102.93 g).
Which brain is powerful left or right?
It remains true that emotions are right-oriented and language is left-oriented. It’s also true that each of the brain’s lobes performs a certain function. Nonetheless, there is no proof that a person’s left or right brain is more powerful than the other.
Did Einstein have Alzheimer’s?
No, a lot of research was done on Einstein’s brain. His glial cell count was higher than normal, but he did not exhibit any of the proteins associated with Alzheimer’s disease in the brain.
Have you ever wondered what happens when an astronaut farts in space? If you have, then this article is for you and if you have not, then you learn something new every day (you should keep reading).
So what are the possible outcomes when an astronaut farts in space:
No Sound: Farts would not make the same audible noises as they do on Earth because there is no medium for sound waves to pass through in the vacuum of space.
Diffusion: The atmosphere within the cabin would absorb the gas that was expelled from the astronaut’s body. The scent may spread throughout the spacecraft due to the more uniform dispersion of gases in the microgravity environment of space.
Filtration and Circulation: To keep the crew’s environment healthy and breathable, most spacecraft use air filtration systems. By filtering and circulating the air, these systems could perhaps lower the concentration of any offensive scents.
What happens when the fart gets out in space?
An astronaut farts in space
No Sound: There is no medium for sound waves to travel through space’s vacuum. As a result, if an astronaut lets off the gas, it will happen quietly and without making any noise. It is like a quiet cosmic outburst.
No Smell: In the absence of air, there is no medium for the aromatic compounds generated during flatulence to disperse. As a result, the smell of flatulence won’t enter the atmosphere of the spacecraft, providing relief from smells for every passenger.
Internal Pressure: The gas expands when an astronaut exhales because of the internal pressure in their body. Because there are no external air pressure gradients, there is no possibility of an explosion or other dangerous outcomes, even though this could cause some little discomfort.
Floating Gas Bubble: The astronaut is surrounded by a little bubble made of gas expelled during flatulence. The bubble will stay hanging in the spacecraft’s microgravity environment until it eventually dissolves if no gravitational forces are pulling it down.
Recycled Air: To preserve a livable and healthy atmosphere, contemporary spaceships are outfitted with advanced air filtering technologies. By effectively recycling and purifying the air, these systems guarantee that any gas released is eventually filtered out and reintegrated into the spacecraft’s air supply, supporting long-term life support systems.
There are so many things that are considered too little or too absurd to question out loud. But this does not mean these things should not be questioned. Farts in space is one of such things. Remember all questions matter and you should never hesitate to question them.
What would a world look like if you could teleport? There are two different scenarios here. If you could teleport just alone and another instance if all people could teleport. If you could teleport alone, you could manage to keep it secret, you could be a hero or a prankster in secret.
If it was a power that everyone suddenly had, it would be a mess. Random people popping up everywhere, probably redundant vehicle sightings, museum of vehicles maybe? The world would change so much. New regulations will have to be made.
What would happen if a singular person would have the power to teleport?
Be taken away for research purposes.
As curious humans are, there is a great chance that the person will be taken away for research. It would be a great scientific finding. And this is the most likely scenario that would happen if someone could teleport.
Could have a hitman on you.
The world is a crazy place. Someone may hire a hitman after you. It could be the mafias and criminals that are having a hard time conducting business because of you. Or, it could be the CIA and the government themselves.
Help people in need.
This superpower will allow you to become a superhero and help people in need. You could save pets who are high up in the tree or you could help people who are being harassed for all the wrong reasons. The possibilities of doing good are endless.
Take care of criminals.
You can track and go after criminals. You can be the modern Robinhood. You can scare the criminals enough to keep the crime rates at an all-time low.
What are the possible good aspects of teleportation?
The possible good aspects of teleportation are as follows:
Quick Travel: Teleportation means getting to places super fast, like blinking your eyes and suddenly being there. This saves lots of time and energy, especially for long trips.
Help in Emergencies: If something bad happens, teleportation could instantly bring help to where it’s needed, like sending doctors and supplies to places hit by disasters.
Making the World Smaller: Teleportation would let us visit any part of the world in an instant, making it easier to meet people, learn new things, and do business everywhere.
Saving Money: Teleportation could cut down on travel costs, help businesses move things faster, and save time, which means more money for everyone.
Better Health Care: Teleporting could bring doctors and medicine to people who live far away from hospitals, making it easier for everyone to get the help they need.
Protecting the Environment: With teleportation, we wouldn’t need as many cars, planes, and ships, so there would be less pollution and traffic jams, and nature would be happier.
What are the possible bad aspects of teleportation?
Cannot contain criminals: Trying to contain criminals in cells would be very difficult. There needs to be teleportation-proof rooms or the teleportation device should not be accessible to everyone or should be limited.
Problems of security: Normal people could get their homes invaded by strangers. Imagine you’re sleeping and you hear sounds of people talking in one room and you teleport there, but then they teleport to the other room. Yeah, it would be a nightmare.
High crime rate: The initial introduction of teleportation would lead to high crime rates. This is because enough security measures cannot be taken already at short notice. Plus there will be a lot of people looking for loopholes.
Achieving the ability to teleport would be groundbreaking. It would bring about a lot of changes and the entire world would have to readjust the laws and regulations accordingly. Teleportation is not a foreign concept but, we have not experienced it. The real question may arise is teleportation a science fact or a fiction. This article is just a concept of what could happen if you could teleport based on the books we’ve read and the movies we’ve seen.
It is humans that are kind, and humans that are cruel. At the end of the day, it is who has the power to teleport. This would massively change the trajectory of everyone’s life.
We all have heard that sharks do not normally prey on humans. But what if they did? This is the story of a crazy shipwreck that caused nearly 1000 people to perish not only by drowning and starvation but, because of shark attacks too.
Where did the massive shark attack happen?
The massive shark attack happened during WW2 in Pearl Harbour when the USS Indianapolis got wrecked in the Pacific Ocean. After being attacked by a Japanese ship Imperial Japanese Navy submarine I-58., it was a mere 12 minutes before the ship completely sank, killing 300 people onboard and 890 people stranded in the Pacific Ocean.
Unfortunately for the WW2 soldiers who thought they had survived the shipwreck, they would soon realize that the sunken ship was only the beginning of the problem. Some would starve and many would suffer from severe dehydration and about 100 would not survive the fatal shark attack from the white-tipped sharks.
How did the sharks attack the WW2 soldiers?
sharks attack the WW2 soldiers
The disturbance from the attack and the sinking of the ship attracted the sharks and what seemed to attract them was the blood from the injured soldiers.
Sharks do not usually hunt humans but usually go for smaller fish, invertebrates, and seals. However, this incident threw light on how opportunistic the sharks are. Initially, the ones being hunted and eaten were the injured victims.
The soldiers who were alive would try and stay away from the soldiers who were already dead in the hopes that the sharks would not come for them.
White-tipped sharks are one of the most aggressive sharks, they were in their territory. The soldiers who were alive had to ration their food which included spam. Unfortunately for them, this spam acted as ‘chum’ for the sharks which acted as bait for them. As the number of corpses decreased, then the attacks on the live victims increased. As stated before, these aggressive creatures increased.
Did the WW2 soldiers survive the massive shark attack?
After four days, a navy plane spotted and helped them, and around midnight USS Doyle came to their rescue. There were 1196 soldiers on the ship and 300 lost their lives with the sinking ship. 900 of the soldiers holding onto their lives; scared, starving, and dehydrated were rescued by the Navy Plane and the USS Doyle.
This is one of the most massive and tragic shark attacks in history. You hear cases of shark attacks, some not so serious and some fatal. But you should know that shark attacks are very rare, but rare does not mean it would never happen.
Some sharks are big enough to bite a human in half. Has that happened? Not really. But it is not the smartest decision to push your luck, you do not want to be the first example of a human being bitten in half by a shark.
The attack by sharks in World War 2. Just 317 of the approximately 900 men who survived the onslaught were rescued after spending four days in waters rife with sharks.
What shark attacks humans the most?
52 fatalities and 333 incidents of unprovoked attacks are the highest number of attacks by great white sharks.
Who was the man eaten alive by a shark in Egypt?
The man, identified as Vladimir Popov, was devoured by a shark in 1999.
What is the most evil shark in the world?
Bull sharks, tiger sharks, and the great whites have reportedly been the most aggressive sharks who have attacked humans.
Which country has the most shark attacks?
The USA and Australia have recorded the most unprovoked attacks in history with 200 deaths in Australia and 38 deaths in the USA.
What is the fastest shark?
The shortfin Mako is the fastest shark today.
Why do shark attacks happen?
Study shows that the main attacks on surfers are major because they look very similar to seals. Sharks do not usually hunt humans but when they do it is mainly because it is an easy meal(when the human is injured and bleeding).
