In 1940s Florida, a South American tree was planted as an ornamental; today, Brazilian pepper is one of the state’s worst invasive plants

Brazilian pepper arrived in Florida during the 19th century as an ornamental plant. This glossy shrub with red berries quickly spread beyond gardens by the 1950s. Birds and animals dispersed its seeds, allowing it to cover vast areas of Florida. The plant’s dense growth and root resilience make removal extremely difficult for authorities. This invasive…

In 1962, NASA blew up a water tank 65 miles above Earth to study the atmosphere

NASA explored biological life-support systems for extended space travel decades ago. Researchers examined recycling resources and using living organisms to sustain astronauts. Plants and microorganisms could process waste and provide essential resources for missions. This early work laid the groundwork for future lunar and Martian settlements. Sustainable living beyond Earth remains a significant scientific and…

32 landslide hotspots in Mumbai surveyed, most remain at risk

The Geological Survey of India (GSI) has unveiled that Mumbai’s landslide-prone sites remain significant threats, echoing findings from previous analyses. The assessment highlights that many regions still experience comparable risks. The GSI urges the relocation of vulnerable settlements and calls for improved pre-monsoon maintenance. To confront these challenges, the BMC is formulating a comprehensive plan…

Samosas, dhoklas, theplas on an IndiGo flight? This Indian family’s desi feast has sparked a heated debate online

A family’s elaborate spread of homemade treats, including samosas and dhoklas, on an IndiGo flight ignited a lively online debate. While some viewers criticized the cabin crew’s handling of the situation, others championed the right to bring personal snacks. This incident also shone a light on the impact of potent food odors in cramped airplane…

India Post GDS Recruitment 2026 notification out for 25,000+ posts, check eligibility, dates and application details

India Post GDS Recruitment 2026: India Post has released the GDS Online Engagement Schedule-II, July 2026 notification for more than 25,000 BPM, ABPM and Dak Sevak posts. The notification was issued on August 27, 2026. One-Time Registration begins on August 31, while applications can be submitted from September 2 to September 21. Class 10 qualification…