Probe finds 'jet stream' over Venus equator

Aug 31 (NHK) - A Japanese probe orbiting Venus has observed especially strong winds over the planet's equator.

Scientists knew strong "super-rotation" winds blow at speeds tens of times that of Venus's rotation. They believed the strength of the winds was uniform regardless of latitude.

But researchers from Hokkaido University, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency and other organizations have overturned the belief. Their finding is based on infrared camera images taken by Japan's Akatsuki probe in July last year.

They say they observed violent winds over the equator blowing at around 320 kilometers per hour at altitudes of 45 to 60 kilometers. They say this jet stream is stronger than those at higher latitudes.

Ishiba Announces New Cabinet Lineup

New Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) President Ishiba is moving forward with personnel appointments, aiming to appoint former Defense Minister Iwaya as the new Foreign Minister.

Two powerful storms approaching Japan

Japanese weather officials say that over the next few days Typhoon Krathon will likely approach the southwestern islands of Okinawa Prefecture. (NHK)

Tateyama Alpine Route Awash in Autumn Colors, Set to Peak in October

Autumn foliage is advancing early in the Tateyama region of the Northern Alps in Toyama Prefecture, with vibrant red and yellow hues starting to appear.

Hakamada Case Ends With Acquittal After 58 Years

The Hakamada case, a decades-long legal struggle, ended with an acquittal for Iwao Hakamada (88), who, along with his sister Hideko, fought for 58 years. Hakamada was suspected of the 1966 murder of a miso company executive’s family.

Japan launches information-gathering satellite on H2A rocket

A Japanese government information-gathering satellite has successfully been put into a planned orbit around Earth. (NHK)

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