Science

African antelopes introduced to New Mexico for hunting could find suitable habitat across much of the American West by 2100 as climate change expands their range, raising concerns about competition with cattle, native wildlife and plant communities.

Two New Mexico Tech astronomers helped NASA assess the threat posed by asteroid 2024 YR4, whose estimated chance of striking Earth briefly reached 3.1% before further observations ruled out an impact in 2032.

New Mexico’s native bees face growing threats from drought, rising temperatures and habitat loss, but researchers say limited scientific data makes it difficult to track their populations. New Mexico State University scientists are studying wild pollinators to better understand their role in ecosystems and how communities can help protect them.

A potentially powerful Super El Niño could bring New Mexico a wetter winter in 2026-2027, raising hopes of drought relief through increased rain and mountain snow. But heavier precipitation and rapid spring snowmelt could also increase flood risks.

New Mexico skywatchers can catch the Draconid meteor shower Thursday evening, with peak activity expected around 7 p.m. Mountain Time. The annual celestial display could deliver five to 10 meteors per hour under dark skies, with no telescope or binoculars needed.