BBC Inside Science Spooky Science
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Nov 28, 2024 Join Tim O’Brien, an astrophysicist and space enthusiast at Jodrell Bank, as he takes us on a cosmic Halloween adventure. Discover what celestial wonders light up the dark night sky and explore the fascinating world of medicinal leeches, reshaping our understanding of these often-misunderstood creatures. Delve into the spooky science behind zombie folklore, parasites, and the shocking problem of pumpkin waste, urging sustainable alternatives for our Halloween festivities. It's a delightful blend of science, myths, and ecological wisdom!
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Halloween's Celtic Origins
- Halloween's roots trace back to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain.
- Samhain is one of the cross-quarter days, falling between the September equinox and the December solstice.
Celestial Awareness
- Ancient peoples were more attuned to celestial events due to less light pollution.
- Many traditions and festivals are linked to specific times in the sky like cross-quarter days.
Leeches in Modern Medicine
- Medicinal leeches, Heridoe medicinalis, are used in modern medicine for reattaching limbs.
- Their saliva has anticoagulant and antihistamine properties, aiding blood flow and reducing swelling.