New findings from a team of URochester researchers show that Earth’s magnetic field may actually help guide atmospheric particles—carried by solar wind—into space, instead of blocking them. Because Earth’s magnetic field has existed for billions of years, this process could have steadily moved particles from Earth to the moon over very long periods of time.

In 2025, popular searches within UR Medicine revealed a mix of curiosity, concern, and a desire for clear science—especially on topics fueled by news headlines, viral trends, and seasonal illnesses.

Attend “Mindful MAGic: Martyrs Water Meditation” at the Memorial Art Gallery on Saturday, December 27, from 9:15 to 10:45 a.m. While some movement will be instructed, this session will have a ceremonial quality that differs from typical yoga classes. The focus will be on sound immersion with the inclusion of verbally guided meditation.

Your dedication helps bring the University’s mission to life every day. A year-end, tax-deductible gift by December 31 of any amount—to any area meaningful to you—strengthens the work done together and supports the programs and people who rely on URochester. Gifts can be made through the year-end giving page or via payroll deduction.

Planning a holiday break? Don’t forget to give your workspace or residence hall room a break, too. Before you head out, check the holiday energy-saving checklist to ensure your space stays eco-friendly while you’re away. Find more energy-saving tips in the December issue of The Compost, the University’s sustainability newsletter for employees. Employees can also subscribe to receive The Compost monthly at the link above.

The following non-clinical offices and services report special hours of operation for the holidays and winter break. Clinical offices should follow their standard policies for holidays.

• Memorial Art Gallery: Closed December 25 and January 1. Closing at 3 p.m. on December 24 and 5 p.m. on December 31. Brown Hound Downtown is closed December 24, 25, 31, and January 1.
• River Campus Libraries: Rush Rhees Library and Gleason Library are open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. December 18–19, 22–24, and 29–31. Closed December 20–21, 25–28, and January 1. Rush Rhees Library, Barbara J. Burger iZone, and Gleason Library are open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. January 2, 9, and 16. Open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. January 3, 4, 10, 11, 17, and 18. Open 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. January 5–8 and 12–15. Open noon to 5 p.m. January 19. Find more details on specific spaces within the libraries. University members can submit research questions at any time using the “Contact Us” button at the bottom of the webpage, and a librarian will follow up.
• School of Nursing: Admissions and Student Affairs offices will operate remotely December 22 through January 2 and resume normal operations at Helen Wood Hall on January 5. Prospective students can continue to explore programs and connect with Admissions through virtual visits and events. Direct questions to Admissions via email or at (585) 275-2375, or to Student Affairs via email or at (585) 275-2374.
• Strong Memorial Hospital Cashiers Office: Closing at 1 p.m. on December 24; closed December 25 and January 1.
  
• Student Life buildings and services: Special hours during winter break for the Campus Center, Spurrier Hall, and public space in Genesee Hall and O’Brien Hall can be found here.
• University Health Service: The River Campus office will be open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. from December 17 to 19, and 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. from December 22 through January 16. There are no evening or weekend hours from December 17 through January 16. On December 24, primary care will close at noon, and UCC will close at 3 p.m. The building is closed on December 25 and 26. On December 31, all offices close at 4 p.m. The building is closed on January 1 and 2. Primary care and UCC at the Eastman School of Music office are closed for winter break December 15 through January 19.
• Writing, Speaking, and Argument Program office: Closed December 25 and January 1. Staff will be available remotely December 24 through January 3. The office will resume normal hours on January 5.