Science News Digest
'Hot Jupiter' winds blasting at over 15,000 mph reveal 1st evidence of exoplanets with magnetic fields
Researchers have identified the first evidence of magnetic fields on planets outside our solar system by studying extreme weather patterns on hot Jupiters, gas giants that orbit extremely close to their host stars. Read more: 'Hot Jupiter' winds blasting at over 15,000 mph reveal 1st evidence of exoplanets with magnetic fields
A single protein may be holding back CAR T cancer therapy
A protein called NFIL3 appears to drive exhaustion in CAR T cells, causing these engineered immune cells to lose their cancer-fighting potency over time; disabling the protein allowed cells to remain stronger and control tumors more effectively in animal models. Read more: A single protein may be holding back CAR T cancer therapy
SpaceX wins $4 billion Space Force contract for satellites that target 'airborne threats' anywhere on Earth
SpaceX has been awarded a $4 billion contract by the U.S. Space Force to develop satellites designed to track and target airborne threats on a global scale. The contract represents a significant expansion of SpaceX's role in national security space architecture. Read more: SpaceX wins $4 billion Space Force contract for satellites that target 'airborne threats' anywhere on Earth
A hidden pollutant is changing how the world's forests breathe
A comprehensive global analysis reveals that nitrogen pollution can either accelerate or decelerate the natural "breathing" of forest soils, with the direction depending on specific ecosystem conditions and potentially revealing critical tipping points for carbon storage. Read more: A hidden pollutant is changing how the world's forests breathe
Prepare for El Niño conditions, urge officials
The World Meteorological Organization is warning communities to prepare for above-average temperatures and extreme weather as El Niño conditions develop. Read more: Prepare for El Niño conditions, urge officials
China launches debut mission of Falcon 9-like rocket with no advance notice (video)
China successfully launched the debut mission of a new rocket that bears resemblance to SpaceX's Falcon 9, doing so without any advance public notice. The launch, which included video footage, highlights China's continued development of orbital launch capabilities. Read more: China launches debut mission of Falcon 9-like rocket with no advance notice (video)