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: 52 min 5 sec ago
In 2023, a massive nuclear project unearthed a 'lead pasty' that turned out to be a 1,000-year-old silver fortune
Archaeologists excavating for the Sizewell C nuclear facility in Suffolk unearthed a lead-encased parcel containing 321 silver coins minted between 1036 and 1044. This hoard, likely belonging to a locally significant, affluent individual during a period of English political turmoil, was discovered due to modern infrastructure development, highlighting how such projects act as crucial engines for uncovering historical finds.
In 2016, stadium crews digging in Oregon found giant bones that revealed an Ice Age world beneath the field
Construction at Oregon State University in 2016 unearthed fossilized mammoth remains, revealing a significant Ice Age paleontological site. Excavations for stadium expansion uncovered a "bone pit" containing mammoths, bison, and ancient camels, highlighting the region's prehistoric landscape. This discovery humanizes paleontology and connects modern life to ancient history directly beneath the campus.
Frozen in time: How an unfinished Pompeii worksite just solved the 2,000-year mystery of Roman concrete
A discovery at an unfinished Pompeii construction site reveals Roman concrete's resilience wasn't a lost secret but a result of hot mixing. This technique, involving heating quicklime and volcanic ash, created self-healing concrete that repairs cracks over centuries. This ancient method offers a sustainable solution for modern construction, significantly reducing its carbon footprint.
The end of microphones? AI can read your muscles to speak for you
South Korean scientists have developed a revolutionary neckband that bypasses traditional microphones. Using AI and motion sensors, it translates subtle neck muscle movements into clear speech, even in extremely noisy environments. This innovation promises to restore voices for those unable to speak and enhance communication safety across various industries, heralding a silent future for audio.
Burren Shark Teeth Discovery: citizen explorers find 330m-year fossils; ancient crusher sharks reshape Ireland’s marine past
Fossilized shark teeth, dating back 300 million years, were recently discovered in County Clare's Burren, revealing a prehistoric tropical sea. This significant find, made by citizen researchers, highlights the potential of everyday interest in uncovering hidden geological secrets. The discovery adds a new layer to Ireland's ancient biodiversity, showcasing powerful predators from a time before dinosaurs.
Workers expanding a highway suddenly uncovered graves, a Roman well, and an anglo-saxon house hidden for 8000 years
Road construction in Nottinghamshire unearthed an 8000-year history. Archaeologists found evidence from ancient hunters to Civil War soldiers. Discoveries include Iron Age graves and a rare Medieval structure. Neolithic tools and Roman artifacts also emerged. This project highlights how modern infrastructure sits on ancient human settlements. Many finds will be displayed in Newark.
The hidden highway: Why ancient Roman engineers were 2,000 years ahead of modern road science
Ancient Roman roads were far more complex than their visible stone surfaces suggest. Engineers meticulously layered materials for strong foundations and expertly managed water drainage, a crucial element for their longevity. This sophisticated construction, centuries ahead of its time, enabled vast empires to thrive and transport goods efficiently for millennia.
The Delphi mystery reopened: Why the secret to the Oracle lies deep beneath the temple floor
Ancient Delphi's Oracle, once seen as pure spiritualism or political theatre, is now understood through its geology. New research reveals fault lines beneath the temple likely released trance-inducing gases, explaining the Pythia's prophetic states. This fusion of earth science and ancient belief highlights how natural phenomena shaped profound spiritual experiences, making Delphi a place where geology and faith intertwined.
Scientists found a hidden giant structure beneath West Antarctica that is almost half the size of Wales
Scientists have unearthed a colossal granite structure, approximately 100 kilometers wide and 7 kilometers deep, hidden beneath West Antarctica's ice near the Pine Island Glacier. Peculiar pink boulders on the surface, dating back 175 million years, served as crucial clues, leading to geophysical surveys that confirmed the massive subglacial formation.
The hidden Pacific mountain that made scientists rethink the world’s biggest volcano
Scientists are captivated by the Tamu Massif, a colossal underwater structure in the Pacific. Initially believed to be the world's largest single shield volcano, new magnetic data suggests it formed through seafloor spreading and tectonic activity, not a central vent. This massive formation continues to challenge our understanding of giant volcanic systems.
