How the Andes became home to the world’s highest-dwelling mammal
The snow-capped Andes in South America have always captivated humans with their majestic peaks and otherworldly landscapes. Despite the harsh conditions near the summit, scientists were astonished to discover life thriving in this desolate environment.
In 2020, researchers observed a leaf-eared mouse, typically found at lower elevations, living over 20,000 feet above sea level. Now, another team has uncovered active animal burrows and mummified remains of the same species, perfectly preserved by the Mars-like conditions near the summit.
But how did these mice become the world’s highest-dwelling mammals? This is just one of the many mysteries presented by the Andes. Interestingly, these small creatures aren’t the only mummies found in the peaks in recent years.
Reconstructing the Ice Maiden
28 years ago, archaeologist Dr. Johan Reinhard discovered the “Ice Maiden,” the mummified remains of an Inca teenager sacrificed near the summit of the dormant volcano Ampato approximately 500 years ago. The freezing temperatures of the mountain perfectly preserved her body.
Using 3D scanning techniques and scientific analysis, archaeologists have now recreated her appearance before her untimely death. This reconstruction can be seen at the Andean Sanctuaries Museum in Arequipa, Peru, along with symbolic artifacts buried alongside her.
The surprising discovery by the Lucy mission
The Lucy mission, launched in October 2021 by NASA, is the first spacecraft designed to study the swarms of Trojan asteroids within Jupiter’s orbit. Before observing the Trojans, the spacecraft made a close flyby of Dinkinesh, located between Jupiter and Mars.
The images captured by Lucy revealed that Dinkinesh is not a single asteroid, but rather a pair of space rocks. This unexpected discovery provided humanity’s first up-close look at Dinkinesh.
The critically endangered ‘akikiki
The ‘akikiki, a bird species native to Hawaii, is dangerously close to extinction with only five individuals remaining in the wild. Global warming has enabled malaria-carrying mosquitoes to invade the mountain peaks where these birds reside, resulting in a devastating decline in their population.
Conservationists are now intensifying their efforts to protect these critically endangered birds. They are collecting the birds’ eggs and creating a safe environment to hatch and nurture them. Additionally, almost 80 bird species are being renamed to avoid offensive names.
The unique body plan of starfish
Recent research suggests that starfish, belonging to a group called echinoderms, evolved their unique body plan over time. Genetic analysis has provided evidence of their divergent body plans from their common ancestor with humans and animals.
New revelations from the James Webb Space Telescope
The James Webb Space Telescope has explored the Crab Nebula, a remnant of a stellar explosion, to uncover new details about the aftermath. The telescope detected previously unseen features within the glowing cloud of gas and dust. In 1054, this explosion was so bright that it was initially mistaken for a new star.
Additionally, other NASA missions have captured striking images of a handlike feature in space and an eerie “face” within the swirling clouds of Jupiter’s atmosphere.
Interesting reads and upcoming events
Curious about your feline friend’s expressions? New research reveals that cats have at least 276 distinct facial expressions. An asteroid impact 66 million years ago caused a mass extinction of dinosaurs and disrupted a crucial process for life on Earth. The collision that formed the moon could have also brought alien material into our planet. Space Perspective is offering tourists a unique experience with a “loo with a view” at the edge of space. Lastly, don’t miss the Southern Taurid meteor shower on Sunday night for a chance to witness bright fireballs streaking across the sky.
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