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1. A recent study revealed the existence of the Ahramat Branch, an ancient Nile river channel connecting Lisht to Giza, shedding light on its role in transporting workers and materials for pyramid construction. This discovery underscores the impact of natural events and human activities on the Nile's landscape over time. Egyptian pyramids, built as tombs for pharaohs during the Old and Middle Kingdom periods, include over 118 identified structures. The most famous ones are the Great Pyramid of Giza, Pyramid of Khafre, and Pyramid of Menkaure. The Nile River, originating in Burundi and flowing through 11 African countries, holds significance as the longest river globally and is often referred to as the father of African rivers.
2. A recent study on Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) raises concerns about their efficacy in safeguarding the habitats of rare migratory fish species, particularly diadromous fish. Examining 11 such species, the study found that only 55% of their core habitats overlapped with designated MPAs, with limited protective measures in place. Endangered species like the Mediterranean twaite shad had less than 30% of their core habitats within MPAs. Diadromous fish face challenges such as habitat destruction, migration barriers, and climate change impacts. Climate change is altering migration patterns and habitat availability, affecting fish populations' survival. Diadromous fish, including anadromous species like salmon and trout, and catadromous species like eels, migrate between freshwater and saltwater environments, exploiting resources in each habitat. These findings emphasize the need for better alignment of conservation efforts with fish migration patterns within MPAs.
3. Japanese researchers have developed LignoSat, the world's inaugural wooden satellite, constructed from magnolia wood and measuring only 10 centimeters on each side. Scheduled for a September 2024 launch aboard a SpaceX rocket from the Kennedy Space Center to the International Space Station (ISS), LignoSat aims to assess its durability and strength. Scientists anticipate that the wooden material will burn completely upon re-entry into the atmosphere, mitigating the production of harmful metal particles that often accompany retired satellites. Meanwhile, a rocket jointly launched by the European Space Agency (ESA) and Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) from California deployed the EarthCARE satellite, tasked with studying cloud impact on climate change from its 400-kilometer orbit for three years.
4. Eight Indian Rafale fighter jets, accompanied by two IL-78 air-to-air refuellers and three C-17 Globemaster-III strategic airlift aircraft, are set to join the prestigious multinational 'Red Flag' exercise in Alaska, USA. This two-week advanced aerial combat training, scheduled from June 1st to 14th, 2024, aims to integrate aircrew in a multinational environment, with over 100 aircraft from four nations and around 3,100 personnel participating. The Indian Air Force (IAF) previously participated twice in Red Flag exercises, known for their realism in air combat training. This exercise offers fighter pilots the opportunity to hone their skills against various targets, authentic threats, and adversary forces.
5. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) recently conducted a successful flight test of the Rudra M-II Missile from a Sukhoi-30 MKI fighter jet. Developed domestically for Air-to-Surface operations, the Rudra M-II is a solid-propelled air-launched missile system capable of neutralizing various enemy assets. It is anticipated to significantly bolster India's air security and defense readiness, serving as a 'force multiplier'. The test evaluated its performance using advanced range tracking instruments like electro-optical systems, radar, and telemetry stations. With a range of 300 kilometers, a speed of up to Mach 5.5, and a payload capacity of 200 kilograms, it boasts impressive capabilities, including the ability to detect enemy radio frequencies and signals from radars over 100 kilometers away. It is positioned to replace Russia's Kh-31 missile currently used in India’s Sukhoi fighter jets.
6. The Carnian Pluvial Episode (CPE) was a period of prolonged and intense rainfall during the late Triassic Period, around 230 million years ago. This phenomenon had a profound impact on the evolution of both terrestrial and marine life. It is believed to have been triggered by global climate change caused by extensive volcanic activity in the Wrangellia Province. The CPE led to the mass extinction of marine and terrestrial species, reducing biodiversity. However, it also created opportunities for new species to evolve, including the emergence of dinosaurs. The CPE is considered pivotal in setting the stage for the Mesozoic Era, also known as the age of dinosaurs, during which dinosaurs dominated terrestrial ecosystems for approximately 150 million years.