Scientists found traces of argon (a noble gas) in the Crab Nebula, a supernova remnant in the constellation of Taurus. Noble gases rarely engage in chemical reactions, but in this case it has reacted with hydrogen, forming a molecule called argon hydride. This is the very first time that a noble-gas based molecule has been found in space.
Organic matter has been discovered inside meteor glass created by an impact on Earth almost a million years ago. Although the material is from our planet, the discovery suggests similar samples could have been thrown around space, allowing organics to be transported from one planet to another. The researchers found there are tiny pockets inside the meteor glass containing material such as cellulose and proteins.
Researchers have created a 'Wikipedia' for intellectual property, including millions of scientific articles, inventions and all existing gene patents. The Lens is an open web facility that aims to bring clarity and equality to the contentious issue of patenting. Created by social enterprise Cambia and Queensland University of Technology, users will be able to collect, annotate, edit and share their findings.
