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  • Mysterious Microorganism Discovered on Research Vessel

    Mysterious Microorganism Discovered on Research Vessel

    Key Takeaways

    1. A new microorganism was discovered accidentally on the rudder of the research ship Blue Heron during maintenance at the Great Lakes Shipyard.
    2. The microorganism, named ShipGoo001, resembles a thick substance similar to tar or jelly and is believed to belong to an unknown genus.
    3. Researchers were surprised to find viable DNA and decent biomass levels in the goo, contrary to their expectations of finding no life.
    4. More research is needed to determine the microscopic characteristics of ShipGoo001 and understand its unique features.
    5. This discovery may help explain how a microorganism can thrive in oxygen-free environments, despite the presence of oxygen in the surrounding lake waters.

    There is no need to do long studies or research to find new microorganisms on our planet. In fact, scientists recently stumbled upon a new species purely by accident while aboard a research ship, and it has some unexpected features.

    A Fortunate Mistake

    This incident took place when the Blue Heron, part of the University of Minnesota Duluth’s research fleet that focuses on the Great Lakes, was taken out of the water for maintenance. While at the Great Lakes Shipyard, a peculiar thick substance was found on the ship’s rudder, located in a warm, oxygen-free, greasy spot.

    Surprising Discoveries

    After this unusual find, the researchers at the University of Minnesota Duluth (UMD) decided to take a closer look. They proved that this thick substance came from a new microorganism. To help visualize this substance, the researchers compared it to tar or jelly.

    Professor Cody Sheik mentioned to Sciences et Avenir: “We think this organism might belong to an unknown genus. We are still working on figuring out the phylogenetic tree of this group to confirm it is indeed a new genus.” Named ShipGoo001, this species is special and exists within a biofilm alongside other microbial species. The university noted that some of these species have previously been discovered in oil wells and tar pits. Cody Sheik also stated in a UMD press release: “The biggest shock was that the goo from the ship contained any life at all. We were expecting to find nothing. But to our surprise, we found DNA that was not too damaged, and the biomass levels were also decent.”

    Continuing the Investigation

    Nonetheless, more research is needed regarding this discovery, as Cody Sheik emphasizes: “The gooey substance appears tar-like, very sticky and black. However, we currently lack microscopic images of ShipGoo001, so we can’t accurately determine what it looks like.” Researchers are already gearing up to share the findings of the microorganism’s genome and the studies they will conduct on it. This research might also assist scientists in solving a significant mystery; even though the lake’s waters have oxygen, this microorganism developed and thrived without this essential gas, which is typically required for life.

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  • Two Novas Shine Brightly in the Sky Simultaneously

    Two Novas Shine Brightly in the Sky Simultaneously

    Key Takeaways

    1. Two novas, V462 Lupi and V572 Velorum, appeared in the sky just two weeks apart, which is an unusual event.
    2. V572 Velorum was brighter, with a magnitude of +4.8, making it easily visible from the southern hemisphere.
    3. V462 Lupi, while less bright, was still visible from both northern and southern hemispheres.
    4. Similar occurrences of two novas appearing close together have not happened since 1936.
    5. These novas provide a unique opportunity for scientists to study stellar explosions and gain insights into stellar behavior and life cycles.

    As we recently learned about a huge water reservoir in space, the universe continues to surprise us. Lately, a remarkable event unfolded right above us. Two novas appeared within a very brief time frame, which is incredibly unusual.

    Unusual Celestial Events

    If you often gaze at the night sky, you might have noticed these bright and sudden light displays. Setting aside any ideas about alien life, some occurrences can be easily explained, even if they are rare. This is true for the two stars that emerged in the sky just two weeks apart.

    The first nova, known as V462 Lupi, was spotted on June 12. Shortly after, the second nova, V572 Velorum, showed up on June 25 in the constellation Vela. EarthSky.org states that both stars reached brightness levels that made them visible to the naked eye.

    Brightness and Visibility

    Digging deeper, V572 Velorum was the brighter of the two, boasting a magnitude of +4.8, making it easy to see from the southern hemisphere. On the other hand, V462 Lupi, while not as bright, is still visible in both the northern and southern hemispheres.

    But if you believe that this event is not particularly rare, Stephen James O’Meara told Spaceweather.com that one would have to look back to 1936 to find a similar occurrence in the night sky. Hence, these two novas, which result from a white dwarf drawing material from its companion star until it reaches a critical point, leading to a massive explosion, are remarkable due to both their brightness and the short duration between their appearances. This offers a unique opportunity for astronauts to study them and gain a deeper understanding of their mechanics and the implications of such explosions.

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, the cosmos continues to reveal its mysteries, and these novas serve as a fresh reminder of the incredible events occurring in our universe. Scientists and astronomers alike are eager to learn more about these phenomena, which could enhance our understanding of stellar behavior and the life cycles of stars.

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  • New Shelly Smart Home Switch: Dual Channels & Matter Support

    New Shelly Smart Home Switch: Dual Channels & Matter Support

    Key Takeaways

    1. Shelly is expanding its smart home devices with the new Shelly Gen 4 series, including the Shelly 2PM Gen 4 smart switch.
    2. The Shelly 2PM Gen 4 is designed for installation inside switch or outlet boxes and has dimensions of 1.46 x 1.81 x 0.63 inches.
    3. This smart switch features two channels on a single phase, allowing control of multiple devices like lamps and outdoor blinds.
    4. It supports various smart home integrations, including Bluetooth, ZigBee, Matter, and WiFi, and can be controlled manually or through an app.
    5. The device includes power monitoring capabilities and is priced at €39 in the European market.

    Shelly is broadening its range of smart home devices, specifically with the Shelly Gen 4 series. The latest addition, the Shelly 2PM Gen 4, is a smart switch that is slightly more challenging to install compared to the usual smart plugs that you can easily find on Amazon. This switch is designed to fit inside a switch or outlet box and connects to the appropriate wires. Its dimensions are 1.46 x 1.81 x 0.63 inches, and it can handle wires with a cross-section ranging from 0.2 to 2.5 square millimeters.

    Versatile Channels for Use

    This device features two channels on a single phase. For instance, the new Shelly smart switch can control lamps or outdoor blinds. It supports smart home integration through Bluetooth, ZigBee, Matter, and WiFi. The Shelly 2PM Gen 4 can be turned on or off manually using the related app, and it can also be scheduled and programmed for various setups of different complexity.

    Power Monitoring Capabilities

    Moreover, the Shelly 2PM Gen 4 is more than just a smart switch; it also functions as a device that can track and measure power consumption, even though this might not be very helpful for lights or blinds. Nevertheless, Shelly’s newest smart switch is now up for grabs with a suggested retail price of €39 in the European market.

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    New Shelly Smart Home Switch: Dual Channels & Matter Support

     

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  • Massive Water Reservoir Found in Space, 140,000 Billion Times Earth’s

    Massive Water Reservoir Found in Space, 140,000 Billion Times Earth’s

    Key Takeaways

    1. Researchers discovered a massive water reservoir in the quasar APM 08279+5255, 12 billion light-years away, containing 140 trillion times more water than Earth.
    2. The quasar hosts a supermassive black hole with a mass 20 billion times that of the Sun, emitting energy similar to a trillion Suns.
    3. The water in this quasar has unique characteristics, including a temperature of -63 degrees and a density 10 to 100 times higher than usual.
    4. This discovery is notable as it is the largest water reservoir found in the universe, highlighting the abundance of water in space.
    5. Other sources of water in the universe include the Orion Nebula, comets, asteroids, and exoplanets, but they are smaller compared to this discovery.

    As evident, water isn’t just found on Earth; it exists in multiple areas throughout space. Researchers have found a massive reservoir of water, which is 140,000 billion times larger than Earth’s supply.

    Unique Discovery

    This remarkable find centers around a quasar called APM 08279+5255, which is situated 12 billion light-years from our planet. To add to the intrigue, this quasar is home to a supermassive black hole that is significantly large. Specifically, it possesses a mass that is 20 billion times that of the Sun and emits energy comparable to a trillion Suns. Most importantly, it holds a staggering amount of water, estimated to be 140 trillion times that on Earth.

    Special Characteristics

    Highlighting this astonishing detail, Matt Bradford, a scientist from NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, emphasizes that the quasar’s location uniquely allows the formation of such a vast water source. However, this enormous reservoir has peculiar traits that set it apart from other similar discoveries. Notably, its temperature is -63 degrees, which is five degrees warmer than the average. Furthermore, its density ranges from 10 to 100 times the norm and stretches across hundreds of light-years.

    Other Discoveries

    It’s essential to recognize that this isn’t the only water reservoir identified in the universe. The Orion Nebula, for instance, located 1,344 light-years away, contains both water vapor and ice. Comets and asteroids may also possess ice, while exoplanets can have water in numerous forms. Nevertheless, this discovery stands out as the largest water reservoir ever recorded, showcasing that water is abundant in the cosmos. Further research might reveal more insights, but it will certainly require a measure of patience.

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  • Aqara G410 Doorbell Camera Hub with Voice Changer Now Global

    Aqara G410 Doorbell Camera Hub with Voice Changer Now Global

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Aqara Doorbell Camera Hub G410 is an upgraded model launched globally, first showcased at CES 2025.
    2. It comes in two versions: G410 with a one-month cloud storage subscription and G410 Select with a three-month trial.
    3. Key features include a 2K camera, 175° field of view, integrated radar sensor, on-device facial recognition, and privacy tools.
    4. It supports dual-band Wi-Fi, is compatible with Matter, and integrates with Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Apple Home.
    5. Pricing starts at $129.99 in the US and £129.99/€129.99 in Europe, with color options for each model.

    The Aqara Doorbell Camera Hub G410 has been officially released around the globe. This model was presented at CES 2025 as an improved version of the earlier Doorbell Camera Hub G4. It was later found on the brand’s UK online store in July.

    Different Versions Available

    There are two choices for this device: the Doorbell Camera Hub G410 and the Doorbell Camera Hub G410 Select. The standard version includes a one-month subscription to the new HomeGuardian cloud storage service, while the Select model provides a three-month free trial. A press release mentions that users can choose between 1-day free cloud storage for six months or a 90-day storage option through Home Guardian. Users can also opt for alternative storage methods like an iCloud subscription, a microSD card of up to 512 GB, or a local NAS system.

    Features and Specifications

    Aqara’s new Doorbell Camera Hub G410 boasts a 2K camera with a 175° field of view. It includes an integrated mmWave radar sensor that detects when someone is near the doorbell, which helps in reducing false alerts. Additionally, the device features on-device facial recognition. Users can receive alerts and adjust settings using the Aqara Home app. Privacy features include image masking and a voice changing tool that works with the two-way audio function.

    It supports dual-band Wi-Fi and is compatible with Matter, serving as a hub for Aqara Zigbee devices or a Thread border router. Other integrations offered are with Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Apple Home with HomeKit Secure Video. The doorbell comes with its own chime and can be hardwired or powered by AA batteries.

    Pricing Details

    You can purchase the Aqara Doorbell Camera Hub G410 in the US for $129.99 (RRP $139.99) after a $10 discount on Amazon. In Europe, the standard version is priced at £129.99/€129.99. The Aqara Doorbell Camera Hub G410 Select is listed for £129.98 on the brand’s online store in the UK. The regular version is available in black or gray, while the Select model comes in black or white.

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  • Xiaomi Launches New NFC-Enabled Desktop Water Purifier

    Xiaomi Launches New NFC-Enabled Desktop Water Purifier

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Xiaomi Mijia Desktop Water Purifier features a six-stage reverse osmosis filter that removes up to 99.9% of contaminants.
    2. It can dispense hot water (up to 100°C) and customizable warm or cold water, with precise temperature settings available.
    3. The purifier has a 4L clean water tank and a 1.8L wastewater tank, designed to prevent backflow.
    4. It includes a 5-inch TFT color screen and can be controlled remotely via the Xiaomi Mijia app, allowing users to monitor filter life.
    5. The product is priced at CNY 2,999 (approximately $418) and is now available in China.

    The Xiaomi Mijia Desktop Water Purifier Cold Boiled Water Edition is now available in China. This innovative home gadget is created to deliver hot or cold water whenever you need it, whether in your kitchen, office, or bedroom.

    Advanced Filtration System

    The latest Mijia Desktop Water Purifier by Xiaomi comes equipped with a six-stage reverse osmosis (RO) filter, which can eliminate up to 99.9% of lead, 99.8% of cadmium, and 99.0% of leftover chlorine. Additionally, the water can be heated to 100°C (212°F) and quickly cooled to room temperature, which is claimed to enhance the purification process. Furthermore, the water tank is enhanced with UV light to provide antibacterial benefits.

    Personalized Water Options

    In addition to chilled water, this purifier can also dispense hot or warm water, with temperatures varying from 40 to 95°C (104 to 204°F). Users have the option to customize the amount of water released. The device includes an NFC reader allowing users to set specific temperatures and volumes for water dispensing. It also comes with an NFC sticker that can be placed at the bottom of a selected cup.

    Specifications and Pricing

    The Desktop Water Purifier is designed with a 4L clean water tank and a 1.8L wastewater tank, with Xiaomi assuring that backflow is not an issue. It boasts a built-in 5-inch TFT color screen and can be controlled remotely via the Xiaomi Mijia app, which also enables users to monitor the filter’s remaining lifespan. This desktop unit measures around 182 x 455 x 403 mm (~7.2 x 17.9 x 15.9 inches). In China, the Xiaomi Mijia Desktop Water Purifier Cold Boiled Water Edition is priced at CNY 2,999 (~$418).

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    Xiaomi Launches New NFC-Enabled Desktop Water Purifier
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  • IKEA Unveils New Matter-Compatible Smart Home Products

    IKEA Unveils New Matter-Compatible Smart Home Products

    Key Takeaways

    1. IKEA will launch over 20 new smart home products in January 2026, compatible with Matter through the Dirigera Hub.
    2. The new products will integrate seamlessly with Apple Home, Google Home, and Amazon Alexa ecosystems.
    3. The upcoming collection is expected to include smart lights, sensors, and remotes, replacing older products.
    4. IKEA aims to offer budget-friendly smart home solutions to make technology more accessible.
    5. A new Matter controller feature for the Dirigera Hub is in beta testing and will be available to all users by the end of 2025.

    IKEA has unveiled a sneak peek of its upcoming smart home items. In a recent announcement, the brand elaborated on its broader strategy related to Matter, alongside the introduction of the new Nattbad Bluetooth speaker. Additionally, it provided insights on the Blomprakt speaker lamp set to debut in October.

    Upcoming Smart Home Products

    In January 2026, IKEA plans to release over 20 fresh smart home products. Each of these items will be compatible with Matter when linked to the Dirigera Hub, allowing seamless integration with various ecosystems such as Apple Home, Google Home, and Amazon Alexa. However, IKEA has not disclosed a detailed list of these new Matter-over-Thread devices. As reported by The Verge, this new collection is expected to feature smart lights, sensors, and remotes, likely replacing older offerings from the brand. There are rumors of additional product types, but specifics are still unclear.

    Pricing and Features

    Although the exact pricing is not yet known, the company hinted that their new smart home products will be budget-friendly, emphasizing that it aims to provide “well-integrated solutions at prices that makes smart technology more accessible.” Recently, IKEA updated the Dirigera Hub, introducing a new Matter controller feature, which is currently undergoing beta testing. According to an interview from The Verge with an IKEA spokesperson, this feature is anticipated to be available to all users by the end of 2025.

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  • DJI Launches Durable and Expandable New Power Station

    DJI Launches Durable and Expandable New Power Station

    Key Takeaways

    1. Upgraded Features: The DJI Power 1000 V2 is an improved version with smart features for rapid charging and a total capacity of 1024 Wh.

    2. High Power Output: It delivers up to 2600 watts and can fully drain in under 30 minutes, ideal for high-energy devices.

    3. Fast Charging: The power station can be fully charged in 56 minutes and reach 80% in 37 minutes, making it convenient for quick use.

    4. Versatile Charging Options: It can be charged via solar energy (up to 1800 watts), vehicles, or generators, and also functions as a UPS.

    5. Additional Ports and Management: Includes multiple USB ports, an integrated display, and smartphone app management; priced at €899 with expandable capacity options.

    DJI has recently introduced a new version of its power station, named the Power 1000 V2, building on its previous model, the DJI Power 1000. This upgraded version brings along smart features and has been crafted for rapid charging. It incorporates lithium iron phosphate cells with a total capacity of 1024 Wh, which reportedly retain more than 80% of their initial capacity after 4,000 charging cycles. The dimensions of the DJI power station are 17.6 x 8.9 x 9.1 inches, and it weighs 31.3 lbs, making it fairly easy to transport.

    Impressive Power Output

    The Power 1000 V2 is capable of delivering an output of up to 2600 watts, which can be maintained until the battery is fully drained. Under such conditions, the power station will reach a 0% charge in less than thirty minutes. This high output is particularly beneficial for powering devices that require a large amount of energy at startup.

    Quick Charging and Versatility

    DJI claims that the power station can be completely charged within 56 minutes and can reach 80% in just 37 minutes, making it quite handy for quick stops with an RV. Additionally, DJI drones can be charged swiftly with optional accessories. The power station can also be charged using solar energy at a maximum of 1800 watts, and with special connectors, it can be charged using vehicles or generators.

    Additional Features

    The DJI Power 1000 V2 can act as a UPS, automatically activating within ten milliseconds of any power interruption. Besides two standard outlets, there are two USB Type-C ports that can supply a total of 280 watts, with each port capable of delivering up to 140 watts. There are also two USB Type-A ports, with each providing up to 24 watts. The device includes an integrated display and can be managed through a smartphone app.

    The DJI Power 1000 V2 is currently priced at €899. You can also expand its capacity with additional batteries, each offering 2048Wh, allowing for a maximum total capacity of 11,264Wh. In contrast, the original DJI Power 1000 V1 is generally available at a lower price point in various regions, currently listed at $417 on Amazon US.

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    DJI Launches Durable and Expandable New Power Station

     

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  • NASA Seeks Witnesses After Possible Asteroid Crash on Saturn

    NASA Seeks Witnesses After Possible Asteroid Crash on Saturn

    Key Takeaways

    1. An astronomer captured a potential asteroid impact on Saturn on July 5, creating a large burst of light.
    2. NASA is seeking witnesses to confirm the impact, as it may vanish quickly due to Saturn’s gas composition.
    3. Impacts on gas giants like Saturn are rare; the chance of a significant one is about once every 3,125 years.
    4. Astronomers who observed Saturn during a specific time on July 5 are encouraged to share their findings with NASA.
    5. If verified, this would be the first documented observation of such an event on Saturn, offering valuable data for scientists.

    Many cosmic events happen out in space, and some can vanish in an instant. Right now, there’s a potential asteroid impact on Saturn that has led NASA to call for witnesses.

    The Origin of the Discovery

    The whole thing kicked off when astronomer Mario Rana snapped a picture on July 5 and shared it with the Planetary Virtual Observatory & Laboratory (PVOL). In this shot, it looks like an object had a violent collision with Saturn, creating a rather large burst of light. This is quite astonishing, as such impacts are very rare. In fact, the chance of an object larger than one kilometer hitting Saturn is just one in 3,125 years!

    NASA’s Request for Observations

    Because of the significance of this cosmic event, NASA is requesting witnesses. An impact on a gas giant like Saturn can disappear quickly due to its makeup. This is different from rocky planets like Earth, where signs of impacts can linger for millions of years. It’s worth noting that gas giants are prime targets for asteroids. Their enormous mass gives them a strong gravitational force, drawing many objects towards them.

    Calling All Astronomers

    Astronomers who were watching Saturn on July 5 between 09:00 and 09:15 UT are encouraged to share their observations with NASA. This will help in studying the impact more closely and confirming its occurrence officially.

    If this event is verified, it would mark the first time such an observation has been documented on this gas giant. Although smaller impacts happen frequently each year, the number of impacts seems to be similar to that of Earth, which experiences about 8,000 impacts annually. Therefore, with fresh data from amateur astronomers, scientists could gain invaluable insights into this phenomenon on a gas planet.

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  • CheckMag: 3 Smart Home Gadgets That Save on Insurance Costs

    CheckMag: 3 Smart Home Gadgets That Save on Insurance Costs

    Key Takeaways

    1. Water damage is a major cause of homeowner insurance claims, with about 1 in 60 homes making a claim.
    2. Smart water leak detectors, like the Resideo RCHW3610, alert homeowners to moisture and humidity levels, potentially preventing mold growth.
    3. Smart smoke detectors, such as the X-Sense FS31 and SC07, offer advanced features like multi-room monitoring and carbon monoxide detection, and can lower insurance premiums.
    4. Smart thermostats improve energy efficiency and help prevent issues like mold and frozen pipes by managing temperature and humidity automatically.
    5. Homeowners should consult with insurance companies before purchasing smart gadgets to understand potential discounts and policy changes.

    Water damage is a major reason for homeowner insurance claims, with about one in sixty homes making a claim, as reported by Consumer Affairs. Therefore, if a homeowner has plumbing problems, they might find a smart water leak detector useful. These devices send alerts when they sense moisture. For instance, the Resideo RCHW3610 does more than just find water leaks; it also warns homeowners if there’s too much humidity, signaling a good chance for mold growth. Resideo has teamed up with USAA, offering a program to help policyholders register their smart gadgets.

    Enhancements in Fire Safety

    Smart smoke detectors have evolved from their basic functions, providing homeowners with extra reassurance. For example, devices like the X-Sense FS31 allow for monitoring multiple rooms, while the X-Sense SC07 can detect carbon monoxide and notify users whenever the system goes off. These smoke detectors come with perks such as in-app testing of alarms and the option to call emergency services through the Protect+ plan. Plus, AAA insurance recommends smart smoke detectors as one of the smart home gadgets that could help lower insurance premiums.

    Benefits of Smart Thermostats

    Some homeowners might be astonished by the savings linked to using a smart thermostat, beyond just the comfort of a cozy home. While simply improving energy efficiency can save money, smart thermostats can also help prevent issues like mold and frozen pipes by automatically adjusting the home’s temperature and humidity. The Ecobee Smart Thermostat Essential comes packed with features typical of smart devices, including app controls, integration with virtual assistants, and responsive temperature management, all while fulfilling the smart home criteria from insurers such as American Family Insurance.

    Before buying these gadgets with the hope of receiving discounts, it’s crucial to consult with insurance companies first, as policies and benefits may frequently change. For additional details about the devices and plans mentioned, please check the resources provided below.

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    CheckMag: 3 Smart Home Gadgets That Save on Insurance CostsCheckMag: 3 Smart Home Gadgets That Save on Insurance CostsCheckMag: 3 Smart Home Gadgets That Save on Insurance Costs
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