The sailor's eyeball alga, Valonia ventricosa, is one of the largest single-celled organisms on Earth. These curious blobs, found in tropical and subtropical regions of the world's oceans, are unicellular but can contain the nuclei of many cells. If popped, they can grow into new organisms from just one cell nucleus. Their unique structure and shimmering coloration make them stand out, resembling a Tesla plasma ball. So, let's appreciate these fascinating creatures and avoid popping them.
Scientists have discovered a massive blob stretching across the Atlantic Ocean, confirming a previously undetected equatorial water body. By analyzing temperature and salinity data from the Argo data repository, researchers were able to model the top 2,000 meters of the Atlantic and identify the unique characteristics of this blob. This finding not only solves a decades-long mystery but also provides valuable insights into ocean mixing and the movement of oxygen, heat, and nutrients on our planet. Understanding these processes is crucial as we navigate the challenges of climate change and its impact on our planet's ecosystems.
Russian cosmonaut Oleg Kononenko discovered a strange blob of coolant outside the International Space Station (ISS) while fixing a leak on the backup radiator. The blob moved onto his safety tether, prompting his superiors to instruct him to leave the area immediately and return to the ISS. The incident raises questions about the presence of life in space and the safety of the ISS.
