The Sci-Files

Compiled by Lexee Hoene
‘Alien’ planet identified
Astronomers and researchers have located the first planet in our neighbourhood to come from outside of our galaxy. The planet has a resemblance to Jupiter and is linked to a smaller dwarf galaxy.
Basically, the Milky Way, our galaxy, consumed this dwarf galaxy six to nine billion years ago. The star the planet revolves around, HIP 13044, was found using a telescope in Chile and is dying because it’s used up all of its hydrogen. It’s thus expanded into a red giant, so that it may swallow up its planets.
This discovery may help scientists determine what our solar system might look like later on.
With files from bbc.co.uk
?Scientists map out Icelandic volcanos
Eyjafjallajškull, the volcano that recently erupted in Iceland, has led scientists to identify the two main eruptive phases that happen in active volcanoes. In the first phase, the disruption pushed up through a dyke, breaking the surface of the volcano on March 20. The second eruption took place April 22, where the lava broke through a new trench underneath the ice on the mountain.
The second phase created the ash plume that disturbed European air traffic. Researchers say the eruptions came in contact with old, highly evolved magma, dating back to a series of volcanic events in the 1820s. It’s probable this major volcano will have scientists and volcanologists studying mountains very comparable to this one other places in the world.
With files from bbc.co.uk
Seismic fault discovered in Rocky Mountains
Scientists from Idaho State University have compiled a map pointing to a new active seismic fault in the Rocky Mountains, which may trigger a 7.5-magnitude earthquake in the town of Stanley, Idaho – population circa 100 – within the next few decades.
Researchers discovered this using remote-sensing tools attached to planes with built-in lasers. The fault begins at the base of the Sawtooth Mountains and tremors could possibly reach the state capital, Boise, if an earthquake occurred. This information led scientists to believe seismic or volcanic activity happens in the same area every several thousand years.
With files from bbc.co.uk
Sonar created – and encouraged – by dolphins
At the University of Southampton, scientists have developed a new underwater sonar device that can recognize objects through bubble clouds that would disrupt normal sonar used in today’s military. Like a medical ultrasound, this new device uses sound pulses and their echoes to detect targets.
Although this breakthrough is astounding, no man-made sonar can compare to a dolphin’s. Dolphins, who also use their own sonar-like system to catch prey, can also create echoes to distinguish hidden objects. This technology opens doors for the future of MRI machines, detection of improvised explosive devices or covert circuitry.
With files from sciencedaily.com