Magnonic Computing, a Tiny Black Hole, and Snowfall in the Sahara

The Point by Modern Sciences - April 30, 2025 (A)

Author

Don Smith
April 30, 2025

In partnership with

By The Modern Sciences Team

April 30, 2025

It’s the end of April, Cultivators of Curiosity!


Welcome to the 17th volume of The Point by Modern Sciences, where we explore some of the most intriguing scientific developments reshaping our understanding of the universe and our planet. In this edition, we dive into the potential of magnonic computing, a technology that could revolutionize processing speeds in digital and quantum systems, uncover the discovery of the "Unicorn" black hole—one of the smallest and most bizarre stellar remnants ever found, and examine the rare yet fascinating phenomenon of snowfall in the Sahara Desert, shedding light on the region's changing climate.


From computing breakthroughs that could push technology to new heights to discoveries that offer fresh perspectives on space and climate, this volume highlights the power of exploration in unveiling the unexpected and unknown. Each article opens a window into ongoing research that not only challenges our assumptions but also provides critical insights into the forces shaping the future.


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ENGINEERING

Breakthrough Study Unveils Potential of “Magnonic” Computing

A recent breakthrough study has unveiled the potential of magnonic computing, where ripples in magnetic fields—magnons—could revolutionize technology. The study demonstrates how manipulating magnons could lead to faster, more stable computing systems, impacting everything from smartphones to quantum devices. With applications in high-speed data processing, this advancement could significantly reshape the future of computing technology. Read more.



The Point:

  • Researchers are exploring magnons—ripples in magnetic fields—as a faster alternative to electricity in future computing systems: A new study shows that magnon-based devices could dramatically improve processing speeds in digital and quantum technologies.

  • A breakthrough in Nature Physics reveals nonlinear interactions between different magnon types: Scientists used terahertz lasers on a thin alloy plate to drive and observe magnon behaviors critical for computing applications.

  • This collaborative effort may lead to ultrafast, energy-efficient memory and processing systems: By moving beyond traditional equilibrium conditions, the research opens doors to magnonic computers capable of revolutionizing everything from smartphones to quantum systems.


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SPACE

Scientists Found a “Unicorn” Black Hole—And It's as Weird as They Get

Astronomers discovered a black hole that defies typical expectations in the binary star system V723 Mon. Dubbed the "Unicorn," this black hole is one of the smallest ever found, raising new questions about stellar death and the formation of black holes. With its companion red giant star, this unusual discovery sheds light on the mysteries of low-mass black holes. Read more.



The Point:

  • Astronomers have identified a record-breaking black hole just three times the mass of our Sun, the smallest and closest ever detected: Dubbed the “Unicorn,” this stellar-mass black hole lies 1,500 light-years away in the V723 Mon binary system with a red giant companion.

  • The black hole’s presence was inferred from its gravitational effects on the red giant, distorting its shape in a detectable way: Its mass places it within the elusive “mass gap” between the heaviest neutron stars and the lightest known black holes.

  • This discovery offers a rare glimpse into black hole formation and stellar death, fueling efforts to map black holes by mass range: Scientists hope it will help reveal how different stars end their lives—whether in collapse, explosion, or something in between.


EARTH

Snowfall in the Sahara desert: an unusual weather phenomenon

Snow in the Sahara Desert may seem contradictory, but it is not as rare as it sounds. A recent study reveals that the region experiences snowfall during winter, especially in areas like the Atlas Mountains. This phenomenon is linked to cold air circulation and the region’s unique geography. The findings offer insight into the Sahara’s changing climate and unexpected weather patterns. Read more.



The Point:

  • Though rare, snowfall in the Sahara Desert has occurred multiple times in recent decades, particularly in the Atlas Mountains of Morocco and Algeria: These events require a unique mix of cold temperatures, moist air, and suitable elevation, typically provided during winter by Atlantic and Mediterranean weather systems.

  • The Atlas Mountains act as natural snow traps due to their elevation and proximity to moist air sources, occasionally resulting in snowfall deep enough to blanket sand dunes: Towns like Aïn Séfra have seen snow several times since 1979, with notable events occurring in 2018 and 2022.

  • Climate change is expected to increase weather variability in the Sahara, with the desert growing in size and interior regions becoming drier and hotter: While snow may still fall sporadically in peripheral highlands, the central desert faces greater challenges from declining water resources and expanding aridity.