February 28 will witness a rare and spectacular astronomical event as six planets—Jupiter, Mars, Saturn, Venus, Mercury, and Neptune—become visible in a near-linear alignment, often referred to as a “planetary parade.” Such alignments are uncommon, making this a once-in-decades opportunity for skywatchers and astronomy enthusiasts.
While planets frequently align in smaller groups, seeing six planets line up simultaneously is exceptionally rare. Venus, Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn will be relatively easy to spot with the naked eye, while Mercury will be visible near the horizon. Neptune, being much farther and fainter, may require binoculars or a telescope for clear observation.
Astronomers note that the alignment is a result of the planets’ orbits placing them on the same side of the Sun from Earth’s perspective, creating the illusion of a straight line across the sky. Weather conditions and light pollution will play a key role in visibility, and viewers are advised to look toward the horizon shortly after sunset or before sunrise, depending on their location.
This celestial event will not repeat in a similar formation for several decades, making February 28 a must-watch moment for anyone interested in space and the wonders of the universe.
The Goa State Legal Services Authority, functioning under the aegis of the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA), in collaboration with the Goa High Court Bar Association, recently organized a series of workshops focused on forensic evidence at Porvorim.
The workshop series was aimed at strengthening the understanding of forensic science among members of the legal community, with a particular focus on its application in narcotics-related cases under the NDPS Act.
Dr. Andre Fernandes, Head of the Department of Forensic Medicine, led a key session on the types of narcotics commonly encountered in forensic and legal investigations, along with the methods employed for their detection and classification. His insights helped participants understand how such substances are identified and categorized within the framework of the law.
Smt. Shraddha Malvankar, a Scientific Officer holding a Master’s degree in Organic Chemistry, delivered an in-depth presentation on the scientific analysis of narcotics. Her session covered the critical processes involved in laboratory testing and the role of forensic experts in generating evidence that stands up to legal scrutiny, especially in cases prosecuted under the NDPS (Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances) Act.
The workshops brought together legal professionals, forensic experts, and law enforcement officers, emphasizing the growing need for interdisciplinary understanding in handling complex narcotics cases. By providing scientific clarity on forensic protocols and analysis, the event contributed meaningfully to the legal community’s capacity to deal with drug-related offenses in a legally sound and scientifically accurate manner.
This initiative reflects the Goa State Legal Services Authority’s commitment to enhancing legal knowledge and supporting access to justice through well-informed practices. It also underlines the importance of continuous education and collaboration between the fields of law and science.
CSIR–National Institute of Oceanography (CSIR-NIO), Goa, hosted a two-day National Science Seminar in Hindi at its Dona Paula campus on the theme “Contribution of Marine Research in India’s Development and Future Prospects.” The seminar brought together experts, researchers, and scholars from across the country to discuss the current landscape and future opportunities in ocean science and its impact on India’s development.
The Chief Guest for the seminar was Prof. Dr. Sujata Kadam, Dean of the All India Institute of Ayurveda, Goa Campus, who spoke about the importance of integrating Ayurveda into lifestyle and shared key initiatives taken by her institution. Dr. Ramanuj Narayan, Director of CSIR-IMMT, Bhubaneswar, graced the event as the Guest of Honour and emphasised the importance of such national-level scientific seminars in furthering research dialogue. He also acknowledged the critical role that CSIR institutions, including NIO, have played in advancing national goals through scientific excellence.
Among the highlights of the seminar was a keynote lecture by Dr. Arun Deo Singh, Senior Professor, Department of Geology at Banaras Hindu University, who presented insights into the utility of microfossils in ocean exploration. CSIR-NIO Director Prof. Sunil Kumar Singh addressed the gathering and spoke about the immense potential that ocean science holds in contributing to socio-economic growth and national progress. He stressed how marine research outcomes can directly support the objectives of nation-building.
The seminar concluded with a valedictory function attended by Dr. Asha B. Gehlot, Member of the Hindi Language Advisory Committee, NITI Aayog, and Head of the Hindi Department at Government College, Khandola, Goa. In her address, Dr. Gehlot underscored the importance of conducting scientific seminars in Hindi and other Indian languages, stating that this would help bridge the gap between complex scientific research and public understanding, ultimately making a stronger impact on the blue economy.
The seminar featured four key scientific sessions across the disciplines of Chemical Oceanography, Biological Oceanography, Geological Oceanography, and Physical Oceanography & Ocean Engineering. Over the course of the two days, 34 oral presentations and 20 poster presentations were made by delegates from 12 institutions across the country. The event saw enthusiastic participation from over 150 delegates, creating a vibrant platform for knowledge exchange and collaborative thinking.
The seminar successfully highlighted the transformative role of marine research in India’s present and future, while also promoting science communication in Indian languages to foster broader outreach and societal benefit.
In a revelation that has stirred the scientific world, planetary researchers have found compelling evidence suggesting that Mars once had a vast river system — possibly mightier than the Ganga, one of Earth’s largest and most powerful rivers.
This stunning discovery, made using high-resolution images from NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter and detailed terrain analysis, points to an ancient river network with deep canyons, wide channels, and evidence of fast-flowing water, indicating a much wetter and more Earth-like past for the Red Planet.
The ancient Martian river is believed to have stretched for hundreds of kilometers and carved deep valleys through the surface, much like the Colorado River in the U.S. or the Ganga in India. Scientists from the SETI Institute and other collaborating institutions say the river could have flowed billions of years ago, possibly during the Noachian period, when Mars was warmer and had a thicker atmosphere.
“The sheer size and depth of the riverbeds suggest it wasn’t just a trickle — this was a dynamic system, possibly more powerful than any river system we’ve known on modern Mars,” said Dr. Joel Davis, planetary geologist and one of the study’s co-authors.
Clues to Life on Mars?
The discovery has revived hopes in the search for extraterrestrial life. Water is the cornerstone of life as we know it, and such powerful, persistent flows raise the possibility that microbial life may once have thrived on ancient Mars.
“Large river systems like this one could have sustained life-friendly conditions for extended periods,” said Dr. Tanya Harrison, Mars scientist and science communicator. “It pushes us to think differently about Mars’ potential habitability.”
How Was It Discovered?
Using stereo imaging from Mars orbiters, scientists were able to reconstruct 3D models of terrain features. The depth and width of some channels — over 30 feet deep and hundreds of meters wide — indicated high-energy water flow, suggesting prolonged river activity rather than isolated flooding events.
Implications for Future Missions
The discovery could influence where future Mars missions, especially those looking for signs of past life, may focus their explorations. These ancient river valleys could be prime candidates for drilling and sampling, possibly containing trapped sediments or fossilized microbial life.
Conclusion
This Martian river, mightier than the Ganga, not only reshapes our understanding of Mars’ history but also deepens the mystery of the Red Planet’s once-thriving environment. As exploration continues, this discovery adds to growing evidence that Mars was once much more Earth-like than we ever imagined.
Stay tuned as scientists dig deeper into the secrets hidden in the Martian soil — and possibly rewrite our cosmic history.
