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Catch up on the latest science news, from space and technology to life and environmental research- all the discoveries shaping our world today.
Updated: 14 min 36 sec ago

Why do some people stay mentally sharp even when their brains show clear signs of Alzheimer’s disease? Scientists have found an important clue hidden in a rare group of resilient brains

1 hour 1 min ago
Recent research from the Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience has revealed intriguing findings about Alzheimer's disease. Scientists examined brain tissues from different groups, including those with and without dementia symptoms. They discovered that immature neurons acted differently in cognitively healthy individuals despite Alzheimer's brain changes. This suggests that these neurons may play a role in supporting brain function rather than simply replacing damaged cells.

Wildlife traffickers may have killed her family to capture her; rescued baby gorilla Bili begins a second life in Congo

2 hours 29 min ago
Bili, the young gorilla saved from wildlife trafficking in Nigeria, has embarked on a fresh journey in the Republic of the Congo. After three years of dedicated care and rehabilitation, she is now set for a quarantine period at the Tchimpounga Nature Reserve. Here, Bili will undergo health assessments and prepare for her introduction to fellow gorillas, with hopes of eventually reintegrating her into the wild.

US releases rare image of China's secretive space plane docked to another spacecraft

6 hours 25 min ago
A US military intelligence agency has released a rare photograph of China's secretive Shenlong space plane, showing it attached to another spacecraft in orbit. Taken in May 2024 and made public in October 2026, the image reveals its open payload bay and another satellite with extended solar panels. However, the purpose of the connection remains unknown.

An animal-borne virus called Shamonda, which normally circulates in livestock, has infected and killed a human for the first time

8 hours 59 min ago
A 61-year-old man in France has tragically lost his life to the Shamonda virus, a disease previously only observed in animals. The man, who was battling leukaemia, contracted the virus likely through a midge bite. With documented cases of infected animals in Europe and previous outbreaks in Africa and Asia, health officials are investigating how the virus spreads and its possible risks to humans.

North Carolina city restores 27 acres of wetlands to reduce flood risks for 93 properties

9 hours 2 min ago
Hendersonville celebrates the successful completion of the first phase of its Lower Mud Creek Floodplain Restoration Project. This significant endeavor aims to mitigate flood risks for surrounding properties, boosting community safety. Key efforts include reconnecting Mud Creek with its floodplain to enhance water quality and flood management. Financial support from various organizations has been crucial in the project's design and construction.

Researchers cast a 163-kg ancient warship weapon after 1,500 years

9 hours 55 min ago
A team of researchers has successfully reconstructed an ancient bronze naval ram, utilizing experimental archaeology techniques over 1,500 years old. By referencing ancient texts and creating a beeswax model, they employed traditional Greek and Roman methods. Documenting each phase of the process revealed valuable insights into how these historical weapons were produced, thus enhancing our understanding of ancient naval warfare and the demands of that era.

MIT researchers folded flat aluminium panels into a room-sized, load-bearing structure without interior columns; lab simulations showed greater stiffness while using roughly two-thirds as much material

10 hours 51 min ago
Engineers at MIT have created a new construction method inspired by origami, utilizing folded aluminium sheets. This technique allows for the design of lightweight, rigid structures that bear loads efficiently without internal support. Researchers have demonstrated this approach with a large sculpture displayed in a public library atrium. The method could revolutionize construction by simplifying assembly and reducing material use.

Hundreds of wildflowers planted in Norfolk to support bees and butterflies

12 hours 40 min ago
At the Fairstead Recreation Ground in West Norfolk, an exciting initiative unfolded as hundreds of native wildflower plugs were planted by dedicated council staff and enthusiastic volunteers. This project is a vital step in enhancing biodiversity, contributing to the restoration of local wildlife habitats. Previous methods, such as spreading green hay to introduce native seeds, laid the foundation for this flourishing ecosystem, with ongoing monitoring ensuring the area achieves sustainability.

Diver searching the bottom of England’s River Wear has pulled a huge three legged iron cauldron

15 hours 56 min ago
An ancient iron cauldron, potentially from the medieval or Iron Age, was found submerged under water. Underwater archaeologist Gary Bankhead led a team of divers in this ambitious recovery mission. Experts are currently investigating the cauldron's design and historical relevance. This intriguing find prompts speculation about its origin and journey into the river, with plans underway for a public exhibition at a nearby museum.

Warming cuts grassland soil carbon by 12.2% during drought, study finds

16 hours 55 min ago
A 12-year field experiment conducted at the University of Oklahoma examined soil carbon responses to warming. Researchers found that soil carbon loss occurred during drought conditions, while gains were observed under wet conditions. Microbial activity played a significant role in these contrasting responses, with increased rates during drought and suppressed activity during wet spells. The study highlighted the need for long-term research to understand soil carbon dynamics accurately.

The UK plans to send giant robotic claws into orbit to grab two dead satellites; 2029 mission

17 hours 56 min ago
In a groundbreaking initiative, the UK plans to unveil a pioneering spacecraft in 2029, designed specifically for the cleanup of space debris. Utilizing advanced robotic arms, the mission aims to snatch up and incinerate inactive satellites, tackling the escalating issue of orbital pollution that threatens current satellite operations. A nationwide competition to name the spacecraft is in progress, underscoring the project's significance in fostering sustainable space practices.

In 2012 and 2013, Maine removed two old Penobscot River dams to restore migratory routes; by September 2026, the Milford fish lift had counted a preliminary 5.85 million river herring returning upstream

18 hours 56 min ago
In a significant ecological feat, the Penobscot River restoration in Maine has revitalized migratory fish numbers dramatically. The removal of the Great Works and Veazie dams has paved the way for essential fish migration pathways once again. As a result, the population of river herring has surged from just 556 to over 5 million.

A community in South Australia’s first dark-sky reserve is opposing a proposed hyperscale data centre; residents fear the development could change the rural landscape and threaten the darkness that draws visitors

19 hours 57 min ago
Residents of Tungkillo, South Australia, are concerned about a proposed data centre that could disrupt their dark-sky reserve. The development may introduce light and noise pollution that affects the rural landscape. Community members believe preserving their unique nighttime environment is crucial for stargazing and natural experiences. The project's economic benefits are being weighed against potential environmental impacts. Ongoing discussions will determine the future of digital infrastructure in the region.

Dubai is growing coral in hotel lagoons before moving it back to the sea

20 hours 27 sec ago
In an ambitious effort to rejuvenate its marine life, Dubai is spearheading the Dubai Reef initiative, directed by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism. The project focuses on restoring coral biodiversity along the coastal waters of the city. The Al Naseem nursery has successfully generated a variety of coral fragments that are being reintroduced into their natural habitat.

Rock that sank over 90 kilometres into Earth reveals a sharp shift in thermal gradient

20 hours 25 min ago
A rock found on Goodenough Island indicates an unexpected thermal gradient change during its descent deep within Earth's crust. Researchers estimated that this rock traveled over 90 kilometres into a subduction zone about 4.4 million years ago. Initial warm conditions shifted to a cold thermal regime as it descended further into the Earth. Both shearing stress and the youth of the subduction zone may explain this temperature change.

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