The most interesting events of the week 30 September - 6 October

Antarctica turns green

The amount of vegetation in Antarctica has increased more than tenfold in recent decades due to the climate crisis that is heating up the icy continent. Analysis of satellite data shows that in 1986, the area of vegetation was less than one square kilometer, but by 2021 it had grown to almost 12 km². Mosses make up the majority of the vegetation, and their spread has accelerated since 2016.

The growth of vegetation in Antarctica, traditionally covered by ice and rock, indicates the impact of global warming on the region, which is warming faster than the global average. Scientists warn that such greening could create favorable conditions for invasive species to invade, threatening the continent's ecosyste

The researchers note that the acceleration in moss growth coincided with a decrease in sea ice around Antarctica. Warmer open waters can create wetter conditions that favour plant growth. Mosses colonising bare rock may provide the basis for soil formation, which could open the way for other plant species.

Additionally, scientists have expressed concerns about the possible introduction of species unnatural to the region that could be brought in by tourists, scientists or other visitors. This could become a serious threat to the vulnerable ecosystem of Antarctica.

A 30-year treasure hunt has come to an end

The book The Trail Of The Golden Owl, published in 1993 by author Régis Hauser and artist Michel Becker, contained 11 challenging puzzles and one hidden puzzle that had to pinpoint the exact location of an owl token that could be exchanged for a golden owl.

This week, it was reported that the search was over. In a message from Becker, posted in a chat on the Discord platform, he confirmed that the token had been found: "Golden owl dug up last night".

The prize, a 3kg gold and 7kg silver owl with diamonds on its face, is valued at around 150,000 euros. Many participants in the hunt expressed sadness and disappointment at the end of the legendary quest, although for them it was a source of many experiences and acquaintances.

A statue of a naked Trump was found shocking

A statue of a naked Donald Trump has been labeled "disgusting" by members of the Republican Party after it appeared near Las Vegas. The 43-foot statue of the former US president was erected on a plot of land off a Nevada highway

It's unclear who exactly created the sculpture, but the Nevada Republican Party said it "strongly condemns this disgusting statue." The statement said that "families driving past Las Vegas are forced to see this offensive puppet created not for constructive dialogue, but for shock value."

According to a spokesperson for the anonymous artist, the statue is called "Crooked and Obscene." It was installed to "spark discussion" and will soon be moved to other key states that could affect the outcome of the election.