The pyramids, pharaohs, and artifacts of ancient Egypt continue to captivate each generation, reigniting the marvels of a distant past.
Today, archaeologists are still making fascinating discoveries in the Nile Valley. Recently, an expedition in Damietta, Egypt, unearthed 63 tombs over 2,500 years old, along with a vast collection of coins, gold artifacts, and pottery.
Experts are also employing the latest technologies to uncover secrets from decades-old finds. This week, new research "digitally dissected" an unusual mummy discovered in 1935.
This mummified woman, whose mouth was wide open as if locked in a scream of agony, has intrigued archaeologists since her body was first found in a tomb near Luxor by a Metropolitan Museum of Art-led expedition nearly a century ago.
Only a few Egyptian mummies have been found with an open mouth. The "screaming woman" whose mummified remains were discovered in 1935 may have died violently, a new study suggests. Sahar Saleem
What caused this disturbing facial expression?
To unravel the mystery, Professor Sahar Saleem, a radiologist at Kasr Al Ainy Hospital, Cairo University, used CT scans to reveal details of the woman’s morphology, health, and preservation. Infrared imaging and other advanced techniques also provided more insights into her life. Saleem discovered that the woman died at the age of 48, and unusually, her organs were still intact inside her body, contrary to typical burial practices. Although Saleem couldn't determine the exact cause of death, the gathered information led to a horrifying hypothesis.
Otherworldly Discoveries
Scientists believe that the smallest planet in our solar system may harbor a layer of diamonds up to 18 kilometers (11 miles) thick. According to a recent study, these diamonds could have formed shortly after Mercury coalesced into a planet around 4.5 billion years ago.
To understand how these diamonds might have been created, researchers conducted an experiment using a massive machine called an anvil press and a synthetic mix of elements mimicking Mercury's early internal composition.
The research team found that one component, graphite (a form of carbon), transformed into diamond crystals under these conditions. Since there are no samples from the planet's surface, it's unclear if the same process occurred there.
However, the European Space Agency and the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency's joint mission, BepiColombo, is set to start orbiting Mercury next year, which could provide scientists with more information.
