Latest Science News
Asteroid 2026 JH2 to make an extremely close Earth flyby
Reports say asteroid 2026 JH2 will pass very near Earth on May 18, drawing close monitoring from NASA and other space agencies. Sources estimate the object is roughly 50 to 115 feet wide and could come within about 91,000 km, though there is currently no direct impact threat.
Live online observation planned for the 2026 JH2 asteroid encounter
Space.com reports that a Virtual Telescope Project livestream will show the asteroid’s close approach in real time. The event is expected to begin at 3:45 p.m. EDT (19:45 GMT), giving viewers a chance to watch the flyby as it happens.
Scientists continue monitoring potentially hazardous near-Earth objects
Coverage around 2026 JH2 highlights how even non-impacting asteroids can trigger intense scientific attention when they pass inside satellite distances. NASA and other agencies routinely track these objects because tiny orbital changes can matter over time.
Climate change is reducing oxygen in rivers worldwide
A new climate science roundup highlights research showing global warming is lowering dissolved oxygen in rivers around the world. Scientists warn this could threaten fish, aquatic ecosystems, and other life that depends on oxygen-rich freshwater systems.
Greenland ice melt may be releasing ancient methane stores
Recent research discussed in the weekly climate roundup suggests warming in Greenland may disturb deep methane deposits trapped beneath the seafloor. Scientists say the finding raises concern because methane is a powerful greenhouse gas that can amplify climate change.
Upper-atmosphere cooling and ground-level warming explained by CO2
Researchers at Columbia Climate School are examining how carbon dioxide can cool the upper atmosphere while trapping heat below. The study helps clarify why CO2 affects different layers of the atmosphere in different ways.
Cuts to U.S. sea level science could affect global research
An article highlighted by Skeptical Science warns that reductions in U.S. sea level science may slow or weaken international climate research. Authors argue that reliable sea level monitoring is increasingly important as coastal risks accelerate worldwide.
Venus and a thin crescent Moon create a striking evening sky pairing
Astronomy coverage notes that Venus will shine brightly beside a slender crescent Moon after sunset on May 18. The pairing should be visible in the western sky and offers an easy observing target for casual skywatchers.
A blue-whale-sized asteroid is set for a close but safe pass
Space.com says a newly discovered asteroid roughly the size of an adult blue whale will fly by Earth at about 24% of the average Earth-Moon distance. The outlet says the event is being streamed live online, with no impact danger reported.
NASA hosts a TDAMM SIG meeting on mission concepts and technology
NASA Science has a scheduled TDAMM SIG meeting focused on mission concepts for the ASTRA initiative. The virtual session runs from 2:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. ET and is part of ongoing astrophysics planning and technology development.
Debate continues over climate tipping points and AMOC stability
An opinion piece references concern about the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation, a major ocean current system often linked to European climate stability. It cites newer studies suggesting collapse this century is still considered unlikely, though weakening remains a concern.