Here are today’s most important updates from the realm of Science and Space.

Twilight Surprise: A Never-Seen-Before Radiation Unveiled by Scientists

Scientists from HSE University in Russia and the Space Research Institute of the Russian Academy of Sciences have unveiled a mysterious new form of radio emission from near-Earth space, termed the hectometric continuum (HMC). This discovery, based on seven years of data from Japan’s ERG (Arase) satellite, reveals that this unique radiation appears a few hours after sunset and vanishes one to three hours after sunrise. HMC is a natural electromagnetic radiation occurring in the frequency range of 600-1700 kHz (kilohertz), far below the broadcasts of conventional radio stations. These radio waves cannot be detected from the ground because the ionosphere absorbs them, making satellite observation essential. The radiation follows a distinct daily pattern: it is absent during daylight hours because solar radiation increases plasma density, suppressing the conditions necessary for wave generation.

Oldest Life on Earth Found Thanks to AI’s Incredible Detection Skills

The researchers found evidence of microbial life in rocks about 3.3 billion years old from South Africa, when Earth was roughly a quarter its current age. They also found molecular traces left by microbes that engaged in oxygen-producing photosynthesis - conversion of sunlight into energy - in rocks about 2.5 billion years old from South Africa. The scientists developed an approach, harnessing machine learning, to distinguish in ancient rocks between organic molecules with a biological origin – like from microbes, plants and animals – and organic molecules with a nonliving origin at greater than 90% accuracy. The method was designed to discern chemical patterns unique to biology.

Hot Tubs Beat Saunas? New Study Reveals Surprising Health Perks

Researchers found that hot tubs raise core body temperature more effectively than traditional or infrared saunas, leading to stronger boosts in blood flow and immune activity. Only hot-water immersion produced measurable changes in inflammatory markers. These effects can persist beyond the session, suggesting a sustained health benefit. For anyone unable or unwilling to exercise, heat therapy may offer a surprisingly effective option. Raising core body temperature through hot-water immersion can support several important physiological processes. According to the researchers, this type of heating can help lower blood pressure, activate parts of the immune system and gradually improve how the body handles heat stress.

Tiny Patch, Big Miracle: Microneedles Speed Up Heart Attack Recovery

Researchers created a dissolvable microneedle patch that delivers IL-4 directly to damaged heart tissue, jump-starting repair after a heart attack. The targeted approach shifts immune cells into a healing mode while improving communication between heart muscle and blood vessel cells. It avoids the systemic risks of IL-4 injections and shows promise for future minimally invasive treatment. A heart attack deprives heart muscle cells of oxygen and nutrients, causing many of them to die. As a protective response, the body forms scar tissue in the damaged area. By bringing IL-4 directly to the site of injury, the patch encourages immune cells known as macrophages to shift from a pro-inflammatory mode to one that supports healing.