🔬 Moon shadows might shelter space microbes

NASA and the University of Maryland researchers found that microbes carried to space could survive in shaded pockets near the Moon’s south pole. This research was conducted using lunar maps and radiation models, detailing survival chances near the south pole. Simulations showed certain bacteria and fungi could persist for up to a week in these niches. This raises contamination risks for future human missions heading to Mars. Understanding these areas is key to separating ancient chemistry from astronaut-introduced biology. 🦠

🚧 Mumbai metro viaduct might get demolished

A metro viaduct project in Mumbai, valued at Rs 250 crore, is facing potential demolition. The structure was constructed by local authorities in Mumbai. The issue stems from a significant planning error identified during recent reviews. This error compromises the structural integrity of the costly infrastructure. Authorities are currently reviewing the situation to determine the next steps. 🚧

💖 Women leaders tie rakhis to political figures

Raksha Bandhan was celebrated with religious fervor across Andhra Pradesh on Friday, August 28, 2026. Several women leaders and party workers tied rakhis to prominent political leaders, including CM N. Chandrababu Naidu at his Amaravati Camp Office. Minister Savitha and Achanta Sunitha were among those who tied rakhis to Mr. Naidu. Education Minister Nara Lokesh also received rakhis from TDP women during a meeting in Ongole. BJP State president P.V.N. Madhav attended a program in Tirupati, emphasizing commitment to women's safety. 💖

✊ Punjab departments deny 'unauthorized' employee absence

Departments are filing replies rejecting charges of unauthorized employee absence following the Maha Hartal. This response comes from various institutions, including Education and Skill Development, after receiving official notices. The mass casual leave took place on Thursday, involving nearly four lakh Punjab Government employees. Protesting for pending dearness allowance and OPS restoration, employees stated prior intimation was given to authorities. The unions plan a leaders' meeting in Ludhiana to decide the next steps in their agitation.

🏏 Kaif says Kohli's energy could have flipped Colombo draw

Mohammad Kaif suggested that Virat Kohli's aggressive leadership could have changed India's outcome in Colombo. He made this comment while discussing the World Test Championship draw in Colombo, where India remained fifth. The draw occurred after missing a potential 2-0 series win, leaving India with seven Tests left. Kaif felt the team lacked urgency and energy, believing Kohli's presence would have kept them switched on. India must win at least six of the remaining Tests to stay in contention for the top two spots. 🏏

🏏 Anaya Bangar tells critics to educate themselves

Anaya Bangar has responded to strong criticism from Marizanne Kapp regarding her return to competitive women's cricket. The South African all-rounder had called Cricket Australia's pathway offer "absolutely ridiculous" and stated it should not happen. Anaya, who had gender-affirming surgery in March this year, is now eligible for community cricket across Australia. Her elite cricket eligibility from March 2027 depends on meeting policy requirements. She is currently focusing on club cricket performances as her next step towards the Women's Big Bash League.

🔬 Eczema Molluscatum in Atopic Dermatitis Patient

Eczema molluscum was observed in a patient who was undergoing treatment for atopic dermatitis. The patient was receiving therapy involving Upadacitinib and Methotrexate. This clinical case study was published in the journal Cureus. The finding highlights a complex dermatological interaction between these conditions. Future research will likely explore the implications of this co-occurrence in treatment protocols.

🪐 Solar whirlpools spotted in Sun's plasma

Images from the Inouye Solar Telescope revealed plasma whirlpools on the Sun's surface. This was observed in a region near active region NOAA 14060, close to the solar disc. The observations were made between 21:38 and 21:41 UTC on April 14, 2025. This phenomenon is caused by Kelvin–Helmholtz instability due to velocity shear between flows. Researchers analyzed 47 vortex-bearing interfaces, with sizes ranging from 25 to 170 kilometres. 🪐

🏛️ High Court backs Goa election ordinance, sets Jan 2 deadline

The Bombay High Court upheld the Goa Municipalities (Amendment) Ordinance, 2026, on August 27, 2026. This ruling was made by a division bench of Justice Valmiki Menezes and Justice Hiten Venegavkar in Goa. The court directed the Goa State Election Commission to finish elections for 11 municipal councils by January 2, 2027. The judgment stressed that constitutional mandates must be followed, regardless of administrative convenience or other election schedules. The court clarified that the municipal election process must conclude by the deadline, irrespective of the State Assembly election dates. 🏛️

🏳️‍🌈 Trans-athlete faces silence from BCCI

Anaya Bangar shared her experience regarding the isolation faced as a trans-athlete. She specifically mentioned the lack of support from the BCCI in this context. The situation has been ongoing, highlighting systemic gaps in support structures. This silence from the board reflects a broader issue within sports organizations. Moving forward, greater inclusivity in Indian sports is being called for. 🏳️‍🌈

🔬 New RNA therapy could tackle genetic diseases

Researchers at the University of Toronto have created a next-generation RNA therapeutic approach. This breakthrough targets genetic diseases caused by a specific type of mutation. The development was announced on August 28, 2026. This new method shows potential for treating thousands of different genetic disorders. Further research will determine the full scope of this promising treatment.