IBM extracts battery materials from seawater

The IBM Research Battery Lab has a developed a battery that does not use heavy metals. It's made with materials that can be extracted from seawater. According to IBM, the new design can outperform current lithium-ion batteries in cost, charging time (less than five minutes to reach an 80 percent charge), power density and energy efficiency. The battery is also less flammable, and it could be used in aircraft and smart energy grids, as well as electric cars and trucks. The battery uses three new, proprietary materials, including a cobalt-and nickel-free cathode material and a liquid electrolyte.

Exoplanet named after moon goddess Wangshu

The first exoplanet discovered by Chinese astronomers in 2008 has been named Wangshu for the goddess who has the moon on her chariot. Its host star has been named Xihe, for a Chinese sun goddess. The two names, proposed by the student astronomy club of Guangzhou No 6 Middle School in Guangdong province, were announced at the Beijing Planetarium on Saturday.