How Many People Have Ever Lived on Earth?

China's Tianwen 2 spacecraft recently captured a stunning selfie with Earth while on its journey to an intriguing asteroid. This mission is significant as it aims to uncover secrets about the moon's history, potentially enhancing our understanding of celestial bodies. Such advancements in space exploration not only showcase China's growing capabilities in this field but also contribute to the global quest for knowledge about our solar system.

Exciting news for skywatchers! The newly discovered comet Lemmon is set to make a close approach to Earth this month, offering a rare opportunity to see its striking lime-green glow with the naked eye. This celestial event not only captivates astronomy enthusiasts but also highlights the wonders of our universe, reminding us of the beauty and mystery that lies beyond our planet.

A recent study reveals that a group of nearly invisible asteroids orbiting near Venus could pose a potential threat to Earth, but experts assure us that this is not a concern for thousands of years. Understanding these asteroids is crucial for future planetary defense strategies, as it helps scientists assess long-term risks and develop appropriate measures to protect our planet.

Recent analysis of lunar samples has unveiled that the far side of the moon, which remains hidden from Earth's view, may possess a cooler interior compared to the near side. This discovery is significant as it enhances our understanding of the moon's geological history and could provide insights into the formation of celestial bodies in our solar system.

Recent research reveals that the Earth's crust is tearing apart off the Pacific Northwest, a phenomenon captured through advanced seismic reflection imaging. While this might sound alarming, it actually provides valuable insights into geological processes and can enhance our understanding of earthquakes. This knowledge is crucial for improving safety measures and preparedness in the region, making it a significant development in the field of geology.

Recent research suggests that sea sponges might be the first living creatures on Earth, dating back around 541 million years. This discovery is significant as it helps us understand the origins of life and the evolutionary history of our planet. By studying these ancient invertebrates, scientists can gain insights into how life evolved and adapted over millions of years, shedding light on the complex web of life that exists today.

The UK Space Command chief, Maj Gen Paul Tedman, has revealed that Russia is persistently targeting British military satellites, attempting to disrupt operations on a weekly basis. This ongoing threat highlights the increasing tensions in space security and the importance of safeguarding military assets. As nations rely more on satellite technology for defense, understanding and countering these threats is crucial for national security.

On October 3, 1950, three scientists from Bell Labs were awarded a patent for a groundbreaking invention known as the transistor, marking the beginning of the transistor age and revolutionizing modern computing. This innovation is significant because it laid the foundation for the development of all electronic devices we rely on today, from computers to smartphones, fundamentally changing how we live and work.

Jane Goodall, the renowned chimpanzee expert and conservationist, has passed away at the age of 91. Her groundbreaking research on chimpanzees in the wild transformed our understanding of these remarkable creatures and highlighted the importance of wildlife conservation. Goodall's legacy will continue to inspire future generations to protect the environment and advocate for animal rights, making her loss deeply felt in the scientific community and beyond.

In a controversial move, Kennedy has terminated the employment of a scientist at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) who filed a whistleblower complaint. This decision raises significant concerns about the treatment of whistleblowers in government agencies and the potential chilling effect it may have on others who might consider speaking out against misconduct. The implications of this action could undermine trust in scientific integrity and accountability within federal institutions.

Recent reports indicate that Russia is actively targeting UK military satellites on a weekly basis, raising significant concerns about national security. The UK's Ministry of Defence has revealed that Moscow is attempting to gather intelligence from British spacecraft, which could have serious implications for military operations and the safety of sensitive information. This situation highlights the ongoing tensions between the two nations and the increasing threats posed by cyber and space warfare.

The FDA's approval of a generic version of the abortion pill mifepristone has sparked outrage among opponents of abortion, who have been advocating for tighter restrictions on access to abortion medications. This decision is significant as it could increase the availability of abortion services, which remains a contentious issue in the U.S. political landscape.