Science Alert
Catch up on the latest science news, from space and technology to life and environmental research- all the discoveries shaping our world today.
Updated: 2 hours 18 min ago
iPhone in space? NASA approves latest smartphones for astronauts to capture special moments in orbit
Covid paradox: Lockdowns reduced pollution but methane rise hurt climate gains, study finds
Covid-19 lockdownshas unexpectedly caused a surge in methane, a potent greenhouse gas. This has happened because pollution reductions weakened the atmosphere's natural methane-clearing ability. Methane levels then rose at a record pace. This gas is a major contributor to climate change. Many nations have pledged to cut methane emissions by 2030.
Meet Meha Jain: Indian-origin scientist wins Arizona State University’s top Science Prize
Indian-origin scientist Meha Jain has won the ASU–Science Prize for Transformational Impact for her work using satellite imagery and AI to study how smallholder farmers adapt to climate stress. Her research highlights their adaptive strategies and environmental risks like groundwater depletion, linking advanced science with practical solutions for vulnerable communities.
Moon-bound again: 4 astronauts will fly farther than anyone since 1970s
Four astronauts are set for a 10-day deep-space journey aboard the Artemis II mission, marking humanity's return beyond low-Earth orbit after five decades. This lunar flyby will test new spacecraft and partnerships, validating crucial systems for future lunar landings and Mars missions. The mission prioritizes crew health and scientific observation, paving the way for sustained lunar exploration.
Green auroras ripple across Earth in breathtaking timelapse; Nasa shares video
Nasa released stunning timelapse footage from the International Space Station showcasing vibrant green auroras illuminating Earth from space. This celestial display coincides with increased solar activity, including a strong solar flare, which can intensify these geomagnetic events.
Spanish scientist’s pancreatic cancer breakthrough turns to crowdfunding as it faces funding shortage for human trials
A promising pancreatic cancer therapy developed by Mariano Barbacid has shown striking results in mice, eradicating tumors without resistance. However, the project faces a significant funding gap for human trials, prompting an unusual crowdfunding campaign. This situation highlights the "valley of death" in biomedical research, where promising discoveries struggle to secure funding for clinical development.
Isro preps for Gisat-1A launch, sat expected to reach spaceport soon
Gisat-1A, designed to provide near real-time images of large “areas of region of interest” at frequent intervals just as Gisat-1, holds the potential of aiding the country’s armed forces to plan operations, although it is primarily a civilian satellite. The 2.2-tonne class satellite is expected to boost India’s abilities by providing observation of the sub-continent under cloud-free conditions.
Nature’s wildest hack: American professor grew a single tree with 40 different fruits
An American professor has created a 'Tree of 40 Fruit' by grafting dozens of stone fruit varieties onto a single tree. This living sculpture, a blend of art and botany, showcases scientific tradition and conservation, preserving rare heirloom fruits. The project, taking years to mature, highlights how creativity can sustain biodiversity.
