EurekAlert! In the Spotlight - Global Astronomy Month

Welcome to In the Spotlight, where each month we shine a light on something exciting, timely, or simply fascinating from the world of science.

In honor of Global Astronomy Month, we’re exploring the science of space. Learn how astronomy connects us through curiosity, discovery, and a shared wonder for what lies beyond.

Latest News Releases

Updates every hour. Last Updated: 28-Jul-2025 09:11 ET (28-Jul-2025 13:11 GMT/UTC)

5-Mar-2025

Gemini South observes ultra-hot nova erupting with surprising chemical signature

Association of Universities for Research in Astronomy (AURA)
Peer-Reviewed Publication

Using the Gemini South telescope, one half of the International Gemini Observatory, partly funded by the U.S. National Science Foundation and operated by NSF NOIRLab, and the Magellan Baade Telescope, astronomers have for the first time observed a recurring nova outside of the Milky Way in near-infrared light. The data revealed highly unusual chemical emissions as well as one of the hottest temperatures ever reported for a nova, both indicative of an extremely violent eruption.

5-Mar-2025

Study: The ozone hole is healing, thanks to global reduction of CFCs

Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Peer-Reviewed Publication

An MIT-led study confirms the Antarctic ozone layer is healing as a direct result of global efforts to reduce ozone-depleting substances.

Journal: Nature
Funder: U.S. National Science Foundation, NASA Headquarters

5-Mar-2025

The quest for room-temperature superconductors

Queen Mary University of London
Peer-Reviewed Publication

Theoretical physicists reveal that room-temperature superconductivity is possible within the laws of our Universe, linked to fundamental constants like electron mass and Planck constant.

Discovery could revolutionise energy, quantum computing, and medical tech by enabling superconductors to work at ambient conditions.

Research explores how varying fundamental constants could alter superconductivity limits, offering a glimpse into the delicate balance of our Universe.

Journal: Journal of Physics Condensed Matter

4-Mar-2025

Beyond our solar system: scientists identify a new exoplanet candidate

University of New South Wales
Peer-Reviewed Publication

The discovery of new exoplanets can help scientists understand how planets form and evolve.

Journal: The Astrophysical Journal
Funder: Ben Montet is funded by a Scientia Fellowship UNSW. Mr Brendan McKee is funded by an RTP Fellowship. The telescopes are funded by NASA (TESS) and ESO (VLT).

4-Mar-2025

Sharper image: U of A-built instrument reveals pictures of 'baby planets'

University of Arizona
Peer-Reviewed Publication

An advanced imaging system developed at the University of Arizona boasts a shape-shifting mirror that delivers observing details typically reserved for space-based telescopes.

Journal: The Astronomical Journal
Funder: NASA Headquarters, NASA Headquarters, Space Telescope Science Institute, University of Arizona, Arizona TRIF/University of Arizona, U.S. National Science Foundation, Heising-Simons Foundation

4-Mar-2025

James Webb Telescope reveals planet-forming disks can last longer than previously thought

University of Arizona
Peer-Reviewed Publication

Researchers at the University of Arizona have discovered that planet-forming disks of gas and dust around tiny stars live much longer than previously thought. The findings provide new insights into planet formation and the habitability of planets outside our solar system.

Journal: The Astrophysical Journal Letters
Funder: NASA Headquarters, NASA Headquarters, Ministry of Education of Taiwan, National Science and Technology Council, Taiwan, UK Research and Innovation, Beijing Natural Science Foundation