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For decades, the prevailing image of Mars has been one of a cold, arid world, a desolate landscape sculpted by ice and wind. But new evidence gleaned from the Perseverance rover’s exploration of Jezero crater is challenging that long-held view, suggesting that early Mars experienced periods of significant warmth and rainfall – conditions potentially conducive to life. Analysis of clay pebbles within the crater indicates a past environment far removed from the icy planet we know today, pointing instead to a climate resembling greenhouse conditions on Earth.
The discovery centers around the presence of kaolinite, a type of clay mineral, found within the ancient river delta of Jezero crater. These clay pebbles weren’t formed by the fleeting presence of meltwater from volcanic activity or meteorite impacts, but rather by sustained, moderate rainfall over extended periods. This finding dramatically shifts our understanding of Martian history and its potential for habitability. The research suggests that ancient Mars may have possessed a more stable and long-lasting climate capable of supporting liquid water on its surface for thousands, or even millions, of years.
France is continuing to grapple with the effects of Storm Oriana, with significant rainfall and snowmelt raising concerns about flooding and avalanches across multiple regions. While the situation remains largely unchanged from Sunday, February 15th, authorities are closely monitoring the Pyrénées mountains, where increased precipitation and rising temperatures are creating hazardous conditions. The focus on flood risk remains concentrated in southwestern France, but the expanding threat now includes avalanche danger in mountainous areas.
Two departments – Gironde and Lot-et-Garonne – remain at the highest level of alert, designated “red” for flood risk. A total of 22 departments are currently under orange alerts as of Monday, February 16th, encompassing warnings for floods, snow, ice, and avalanches, according to Météo France. This represents a slight decrease from the 23 departments under orange alert on Sunday, but the shift in focus to the Pyrénées highlights the evolving nature of the storm’s impact.
Météo France emphasizes that a significant rainfall event combined with notable snowmelt necessitates vigilance. Forecasts for the Pyrénées predict rainfall accumulations of 30 to 50 mm, with localized areas potentially receiving 70 to 100 mm at higher elevations. Adding to this, the melting snow is estimated to contribute an additional 30 mm of water equivalent, potentially reaching 40-50 mm in the Ariège department. This combined effect significantly increases the risk of overflowing rivers and streams.
Four departments in the Pyrénées – Pyrénées-Atlantiques, Hautes-Pyrénées, Haute-Garonne, and Ariège – have been placed under orange alert for heavy rain and flooding due to the increased avalanche risk. The avalanche risk, particularly from wet snow, is considered significant, and could impact roadways and mountain infrastructure.
Pour dimanche 15 février 2026 :🔴 2 départements en Vigilance rouge🟠 23 départements en Vigilance orangePour lundi 16 février 2026 :🔴 2 départements en Vigilance rouge🟠 22 départements en Vigilance orangeRestez prudents et informés :https://t.co/JGz4rTUvHP pic.twitter.com/b5VhbBmAd4
— VigiMétéoFrance (@VigiMeteoFrance) February 15, 2026
The avalanche activity expected in the Pyrénées is a recurring phenomenon, occurring roughly every two to three years, according to Météo France. While the wet snow avalanche event hadn’t fully begun as of Sunday afternoon, conditions were ripe for development. Prior to the current system, the Pyrénées experienced cold and windy snowfall between February 12th and 14th. A temporary lull on Sunday morning was expected to be followed by a new, active weather disturbance.
Avalanche Risk in the Alps
The rising freezing level, expected to reach 2,000 meters by late afternoon or evening, is contributing to the heightened avalanche risk. Wet snow avalanches are anticipated to impact roadways at lower elevations, while larger powder avalanches could threaten infrastructure at higher altitudes. The Alps are also facing an elevated avalanche risk on Monday.
Météo France forecasts 50 to 70 cm of fresh snow above 1,500 meters across much of Haute-Savoie, Savoie, and Isère, with localized accumulations potentially reaching 90 cm overnight Sunday and throughout Monday. This substantial snowfall, combined with the ongoing precipitation, is expected to trigger significant avalanche activity, potentially impacting roads and mountain facilities.
Recent Storm Activity
Storm Oriana has been impacting France since the beginning of the weekend, causing deaths and widespread power outages. According to reporting from February 15th, Storm Nils previously caused deaths, major flooding, and mass power cuts in France, demonstrating the potential severity of these weather events. Storm Nils caused significant disruption earlier this month.
Authorities are urging residents in affected areas to stay informed and exercise caution. The situation remains dynamic, and further updates will be provided by Météo France as the storm progresses. The focus will remain on monitoring river levels, snowpack stability, and potential impacts to transportation networks.
Looking ahead, continued monitoring of the weather systems impacting France will be crucial. The combination of rainfall, snowmelt, and potential for further snowfall necessitates ongoing vigilance and preparedness. Share your experiences and stay safe.
McKenzie, Tennessee, mourns the loss of Robert John Campbell, a 60-year-old resident who passed away on February 12, 2026, at The Waters of McKenzie. Campbell’s life was remembered by family and friends at a funeral service held Saturday, February 14th, at White-Ranson Funeral Home in Union City, Tennessee. The service followed a period of visitation at the same location, offering the community a chance to pay their respects.
Born June 13, 1965, Robert Campbell leaves behind a legacy of warmth and kindness, according to a memorial page dedicated to his life. His passing has prompted an outpouring of condolences from those who knew him, highlighting the impact he had on countless lives. The funeral arrangements were entrusted to White & Mahon Funeral Home, with services conducted by Bro. Markus McClure. A private burial followed the service, allowing the family to grieve in a more intimate setting.
Life and Family
Robert Campbell is survived by his daughters, Kimberly Brann of Fulton, Kentucky, Michelle Romero of Clinton, Kentucky and Kristin Grooms. He was a grandfather to Dylan Campbell, Kenzie Curry, Chase Curry, Kylee Curry, Mercedes Rosas, Brendon Rosas, Paisley Romero, Austin Todd, Gracie Bond, and Analiese Bond. He similarly leaves behind great-grandchildren, Natalyn, Nylah Mason, and Shae Campbell. Campbell’s family also includes his brother Don Campbell, sister-in-law Glenda Campbell of Branson, Missouri, and sister Dee Revelle of Sikeston, Missouri, as well as several nieces and nephews.
He was predeceased by his parents, Johnny Campbell and Zodie Bell McBride Smith, his sister Lori Ballew, and his great-grandchild Gunnar Campbell. These losses undoubtedly shaped his life and are acknowledged as part of his story.
Visitation and Funeral Details
The visitation for Robert Campbell was held on Saturday, February 14th, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at White-Ranson Funeral Home, located at 212 W Washington Ave, Union City, TN 38281. The funeral service immediately followed at 2:00 PM at the same location, providing a space for the community to gather and celebrate his life. The White-Ranson Funeral Home provided an obituary detailing these arrangements.
Family and friends are encouraged to share memories and condolences on the memorial page established in his honor. This online space serves as a lasting tribute to Robert Campbell’s life and the impact he had on those around him. EchoVita.com also hosts an obituary page for Robert John Campbell.
The passing of Robert John Campbell marks a loss for the McKenzie community. As those who knew him remember his warmth and kindness, his legacy will continue to live on through the cherished memories he leaves behind. The family appreciates the support and condolences offered during this demanding time.
As the community reflects on Robert Campbell’s life, the focus shifts to supporting his family and honoring his memory. Further details regarding any potential memorial contributions or ongoing tributes will likely be shared by the family in the coming days. We encourage those wishing to express their sympathy to consider sharing a memory or offering condolences through the established memorial pages.
Please feel free to share your thoughts and memories of Robert in the comments below.
The future of household assist may look a lot more robotic and a lot more intuitive. Researchers at Universidad Carlos III de Madrid (UC3M) have developed a new methodology enabling robots to learn complex, two-armed tasks – like setting and clearing a table – simply by watching humans. This breakthrough in observational learning promises more adaptable and easily-teachable service robots, particularly for assisting an aging population.
Traditionally, programming robots to perform even simple tasks required painstakingly coding every single movement. The UC3M team’s approach, recently presented at the IROS 2025 robotics conference, bypasses this laborious process. Instead, the robots learn by imitation, mirroring human actions. But simply copying isn’t enough; the key innovation lies in the robot’s ability to adapt to slight variations in its environment.
This adaptability is achieved through a system of “intercommunication” between the robot’s limbs, allowing for coordinated movement. The research centers around the ADAM robot (Autonomous Domestic Ambidextrous Manipulator), designed specifically for assistive tasks in home settings. “It can, for example, set the table and clear it afterwards, tidy the kitchen, or bring a user a glass of water or medication at the indicated time,” explains Alicia Mora, a researcher from the UC3M Robotics Lab’s Mobile Robots Group. “It can also help them when they are going out by bringing a coat or an article of clothing.”
The challenge of coordinating two robotic arms working in tandem is a significant hurdle in current robotics research. The UC3M team’s solution allows the robot’s movements to behave like a “rubber band” – if the target object shifts position, the robot’s trajectory smoothly adjusts to reach it, maintaining the integrity of the action, such as keeping a glass upright to prevent spills.
Addressing the Needs of an Aging Population
Beyond the technical advancements, the development of robots like ADAM addresses a growing societal necessitate. “Every day there are more elderly people in our society and fewer people who can care for them, so these types of technological solutions are going to become increasingly necessary,” says Ramón Barber, director of the Mobile Robots Group and a professor in the UC3M Department of Systems Engineering, and Automation. He emphasizes that even simple gestures, like having someone bring a glass of water, can significantly improve the quality of life and independence for those who require assistance.
ADAM is currently an experimental platform, with a cost estimated between 80,000 and 100,000 euros. However, researchers believe the technology is maturing rapidly. They predict that within 10 to 15 years, similar robots could be commonplace in homes at a much more affordable price point.
How Imitation Learning Works
The core of this advancement lies in the application of imitation learning. Instead of relying on thousands of lines of code, researchers allow the robot to learn by observing human demonstrations. A human can either directly guide the robot’s arms through a task or record themselves performing the action. However, the team recognized that simply replicating a movement isn’t sufficient. The robot must understand the *intent* of the action, not just the mechanics.
This is where the “rubber band” effect comes into play. If a robot learns to grasp a bottle in a specific location, and that bottle is moved slightly, a traditional imitation system would repeat the original, now-incorrect movement. The UC3M team’s approach allows the robot to adapt, smoothly adjusting its trajectory to successfully grasp the bottle in its new position. This ensures the robot can handle real-world variability and maintain the essential function of the task.
As SpaceDaily reports, the ADAM platform is specifically designed to support older adults in their homes or care facilities.
The Future of Assistive Robotics
While still in the experimental phase, the UC3M’s work represents a significant step towards creating truly helpful and adaptable robots for domestic environments. The ability to learn from observation, combined with the coordination of two arms, opens up a wide range of possibilities for assistive technologies. Further research will likely focus on refining the learning algorithms, expanding the range of tasks the robot can perform, and reducing the cost to make these technologies accessible to a wider population. The ongoing development of robots like ADAM signals a future where technology plays an increasingly important role in supporting independent living and enhancing the quality of life for individuals of all ages.
What are your thoughts on the role of robots in elder care? Share your opinions in the comments below.