Asteroid 2024 YR4 has emerged as a point of scientific interest after astronomers tracked its trajectory in relation to the Moon, highlighting the growing sophistication of near-Earth object monitoring. While the asteroid poses no known threat to Earth or the Moon, its passage has provided researchers with valuable data on orbital dynamics, gravitational influence and long-term space risk assessment. Observations of such objects play a critical role in planetary defense and space science, offering insights into how small celestial bodies interact with larger systems.

Akme Fintrade (India) Ltd. delivered a strong performance in the third quarter, reporting a 16% year-on-year increase in profit after tax to Rs 10.39 crore. The improved earnings were supported by steady growth in its lending portfolio and disciplined risk management. The results reflect stable demand for credit across its focus segments, even as the broader financial environment remains selective.

Lifestyle factors are increasingly shaping the global discourse on cancer, as new research reinforces the link between everyday habits and long-term disease risk. From diet and physical activity to sleep patterns, alcohol consumption and environmental exposure, evidence suggests that a significant share of cancer cases may be influenced by modifiable behaviors. Public health authorities and policymakers are responding with renewed emphasis on prevention, early intervention and awareness.

Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming one of medicine’s most enduring tools: the stethoscope. Once purely acoustic, the device is now being reimagined as a digital diagnostic platform capable of detecting subtle cardiac and pulmonary abnormalities with remarkable precision. AI-powered stethoscopes can analyze heartbeats and lung sounds in real time, supporting clinicians with data-driven insights and reducing diagnostic uncertainty.

India’s public health system has once again shifted into high-alert mode following fresh reports of Nipah virus infections, a rare but highly lethal zoonotic disease. Authorities have moved swiftly to contain the outbreak through contact tracing, isolation protocols and intensified surveillance, particularly in vulnerable regions. While the number of confirmed cases remains limited, the virus’s high fatality rate has prompted caution among policymakers and health experts alike.

Health and animal husbandry authorities in Tamil Nadu have intensified surveillance measures in Chennai following the detection of H5N1 avian influenza in birds, prompting swift preventive action to contain any potential spread. While officials have emphasized that no confirmed human cases have been reported, the development has triggered heightened monitoring across poultry markets, migratory bird zones and food supply chains.

February 2026 offers skywatchers a rare yet accessible celestial highlight as Jupiter and Mercury become prominently visible during the month. The alignment presents an opportunity for both amateur astronomers and casual observers to witness two contrasting planets—one a massive gas giant, the other a swift inner-world—sharing the night sky. Clear viewing windows, particularly during early evenings and pre-dawn hours, make this event notable without requiring specialized equipment.

For the first time since landing on Mars, NASA’s Perseverance rover has used artificial intelligence to independently plan its driving routes, signaling a major advance in autonomous space exploration. The AI-powered navigation system allows the rover to analyze terrain, identify hazards and select efficient paths without constant instructions from Earth. This development reduces communication delays and increases scientific productivity, enabling Perseverance to cover more ground in less time.

Astronomers have identified a new comet, designated C/2026 A1 (MAPS), following observations made in January, adding another object of scientific interest to the solar system’s dynamic landscape. The discovery highlights the increasing effectiveness of modern sky-survey programs and automated detection systems in tracking transient celestial bodies. Early data suggest the comet is long-period in nature, originating from the outer reaches of the solar system.

Google DeepMind has introduced AlphaGenome, a new artificial intelligence model aimed at accelerating research in genetics and molecular biology. Built to analyze complex DNA sequences at scale, AlphaGenome is designed to help scientists better understand gene regulation, mutations and their links to disease. The launch reflects DeepMind’s expanding focus beyond protein structures toward broader genomic intelligence. As healthcare systems and biotech firms increasingly rely on data-driven discovery, AlphaGenome positions AI as a critical tool in reducing research timelines and costs.