Mars Megaripples and more: Understand the world through 8 incredible images

Astronomers captured a red supergiant’s collapse into a Type II supernova for the first time. The team observed a never-before-seen flash of light from the star that signaled its collapse, and observed it for the 130 days before the supernova.

Scientists found increased myelin located in the brain’s memory and emotional centers is linked to PTSD in veterans and anxiety in rats. Treatments targeting myelin, which increases neural communication, may combat both PTSD and anxiety.

Scientists uncovered an unprecedented array of fossils from Australia’s Miocene era, which has a poor fossil record. The finding includes new species of spiders, insects, and fish.

Researchers discovered the most-complete ichthyosaur skeleton ever found in the UK. Found in the Anglian Water reservoir, it’s thought to be the first Temnodontosaurus trigonodon uncovered in the country.

Researchers discovered how skin cells defend against skin cancer by dramatically slowing their function without dying. Understanding this process — driven by protein CDSE1 — could aid future cancer research.

Researchers officially described Pristimantis gretathunbergae, a new species of frog found in eastern Panama. Naming rights were auctioned off for the Rainforest Trust, with the winner honoring climate activist Greta Thunberg.

Scientists explained the origin of the Local Bubble — a 500 light-year area surrounding Earth where stars are formed. They determined a series of supernovae starting 14 million years ago pushed interstellar gas away, clearing the bubble.

Researchers found Mars’ Megaripples, sand ripples up to six feet tall, aren’t static as previously thought. In spring and summer months, the massive ripples are driven by smaller sand structures moving at a rate of 9.6 meters per year.