Innovative discoveries in July address climate, health issues

ISTANBUL (AA): Advances in science and technology are revealing the universe’s hidden mysteries and offering new insights and solutions to human problems.

Anadolu Agency (AA) highlighted the key scientific developments and discoveries of July.

Space tech advancements

On July 9, Türkiye’s first domestic communications satellite, Türksat 6A, was launched from Cape Canaveral in the U.S. using SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket. This achievement makes Türkiye one of 11 countries with this capability.

The launch increased Türkiye’s active satellites to nine and positioned the country to become a satellite exporter.

The James Webb Space Telescope also captured images of two interacting galaxies, Penguin (NGC 2936) and Egg (NGC 2937), which are expected to merge into one galaxy eventually.

Developments in health

Amputees regained their natural walking speeds with a new bionic leg featuring nerve-centered technology, moving 41% faster than those using standard prosthetics.

These bionic legs, equipped with muscle sensors, represent significant advancements in prosthetic design.

Furthermore, a detailed brain map identified approximately 300 neurons in the prefrontal cortex that respond to word meanings, potentially leading to new technologies and brain-computer interfaces to assist those who have lost their ability to speak.

Harvesting atmospheric water

Scientists in the U.S. have developed a device that collects water vapor from the air and converts it into drinking water.

Engineers at the University of Utah created the device, which uses a hygroscopic material to capture and heat water vapor. It could potentially provide clean drinking water to billions facing scarcity.

Animal world updates

Discoveries include a glass frog species, Centrolene Kutuku, found in Ecuador’s Amazon rainforest, notable for its transparent belly.

Additionally, a study of over 250 chimpanzees in Uganda and Tanzania revealed that their communication patterns, including turn-taking, fast-paced exchanges and the use of gestures, are similar to human styles.