Science

A vast polynya, or open-water gap, appeared in the Arctic's 'Last Ice' near Ellesmere Island, a region previously considered too thick for such formations. The discovery, reported in Geophysical Research Letters, suggests that thinning ice is becoming more susceptible to wind-driven openings, which could become more frequent as warming continues.

China's Dark Matter Particle Explorer has detected an unexpected spike in high-energy cosmic ray electrons, a signal that could hint at dark matter but remains unexplained by current physics. The finding marks the first observational data from China's dedicated astrophysics mission and adds to the global hunt for the invisible substance.

Hyundai and Kia have announced plans to equip select vehicles with solar panels by 2019, beginning with hybrids and expanding to gas-powered and fully electric models. The technology will supplement, not replace, existing power systems, marking a step toward vehicles that generate their own energy.

A powerful X7.1 solar flare on October 2 caused brief radio blackouts over Hawaii and the Pacific. NOAA reports a coronal mass ejection is heading toward Earth, with a minor-to-strong geomagnetic storm expected by October 5, potentially bringing auroras to northern US states.

Australian scientists are collecting coral sperm and eggs during the annual spawning to fertilize and grow new coral, aiming to revive the most damaged sections of the Great Barrier Reef. The project, called Larval Restoration, uses floating booms as nurseries before transplanting young coral back onto the reef.

California Governor Gavin Newsom signed an executive order mandating that all new passenger cars and light trucks sold in the state be zero-emission by 2035, with medium and heavy trucks following by 2045. The move, aimed at curbing greenhouse gases, also includes a proposed fracking ban by 2024. Existing gas-powered vehicles remain legal to own and sell as used.

A leaked video shows a Canadian deep sea mining firm discharging sediment into the ocean, prompting scientists to raise concerns about the company's environmental practices. The footage, captured by researchers hired to monitor operations, reveals a lack of transparency and potential harm to marine life. The incident has intensified calls for stricter oversight of the industry.

A team from MIT and Jain Irrigation Systems has won a $140,000 prize for a solar-powered desalination system that turns salt water into fresh water. The method uses electrodialysis and UV light to make water safe for drinking and irrigation. Field tests with rural farmers are planned next.

Google, Amazon, Apple, and Microsoft have filed a legal brief with the DC Circuit Court supporting the EPA's Clean Power Plan. The move highlights corporate backing for renewable energy and energy efficiency. Google's own investments in solar and wind underscore the business case for clean power.