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 2 min ago
Deja vu has an exact opposite, jamais vu: Why the familiar can suddenly feel completely new
Ever felt a familiar word suddenly look alien? That's jamais vu, the opposite of déjà vu, where recognition briefly falters. Researchers explain this fleeting disconnect between memory and perception, often triggered by repetition or fatigue. While usually harmless, frequent occurrences might warrant medical attention, offering a glimpse into our brain's intricate familiarity processing.
This giant 'heavenly pit' in China holds a hidden ecosystem below ground that has its own climate and wildlife
A colossal sinkhole, Xiaozhai Tiankeng, discovered in Southern China, reveals a hidden forest ecosystem. This "heavenly pit," deeper than skyscrapers, harbors over 1,200 plant species and adapted wildlife, including the endangered clouded leopard. Scientists view this isolated 'lost world' as a crucial natural laboratory for studying biodiversity and climate change adaptations.
In 2012, archaeologists digging up a Leicester parking lot unearthed a skeleton later DNA-identified as the long-lost King Richard III
A car park in Leicester unexpectedly yielded the remains of King Richard III, the last English king to die in battle. Scientific analysis, including osteological evidence, DNA comparison with descendants, and examination of battle injuries, confirmed the skeleton's identity. This discovery bridges the medieval and contemporary worlds, highlighting the rich history beneath urban landscapes.
In 2000, silver miners in Mexico accidentally drilled into a 300-meter-deep crystal fortress that looks like a scene from another planet
Miners in Chihuahua's Naica Mine discovered a massive cave filled with colossal, white gypsum crystals, some reaching 12 meters in length. This natural wonder, a result of hundreds of thousands of years of growth in extreme heat and humidity, also preserved ancient microorganisms. The cave, now flooded again after pumps were turned off in 2015, continues its slow, protected formation.
A 2,200-year-old Roman shipwreck reveals a secret history of emergency repairs that kept ancient trade alive across the Adriatic
An ancient Roman merchant ship, submerged for over two millennia off Ilovik, has revealed secrets of Roman seafaring. Archaeologists discovered evidence of extensive repairs using a unique marine glue, showcasing the resourcefulness of sailors. Pollen analysis within the sealant provides a 'biological map' of the ship's extensive journeys, highlighting the vital role of such vessels in Roman trade.
A 13-year-old boy took a walk in a Berlin field and found an ancient Greek coin lost for 2,000 years
A young historian's find in Berlin has unearthed a thousand-year-old Greek coin. This bronze artefact from Ilion or Troy dates back to 281-261 BC. Its presence in Germany suggests ancient trade routes connected the Mediterranean and Baltic regions. The discovery highlights Europe's historical interconnectedness. This find is now on display at the PETRI Berlin archaeology lab.
In 1900, a storm blew a Greek diving crew off course and led to the discovery of a "computer" that was 1,500 years ahead of its time
A chance discovery by Greek sponge fishermen in 1900 off Antikythera revealed a remarkable ancient astronomical calculator. This "Antikythera Mechanism," a complex device with intricate gears, predates similar technology by fifteen centuries. Its rediscovery forced historians to re-evaluate ancient Greek technological prowess, proving advanced mechanical knowledge existed far earlier than previously believed.
In 1950, a routine cut through a Danish bog revealed a face so fresh it looked alive until it was dated to 300 BCE
On a rainy May day in 1950, Danish peat cutters Viggo and Emil Hojgaard unearthed a remarkably preserved Iron Age man in Bjældskovdal Bog. Dubbed Tollund Man, his peaceful appearance and the noose around his neck suggest ritual sacrifice, offering a profound glimpse into ancient spiritual practices and a complex relationship with nature.
Wind turbine workers struck a 3,000-year-old treasure and revealed a glittering hoard of Bronze Age jewellery
A routine wind turbine construction in Wolfenbüttel, Germany, unearthed a remarkable 3000-year-old Bronze Age treasure hoard. The intact cache, featuring intricate bronze jewellery and Baltic amber beads, highlights the advanced craftsmanship and extensive trade networks of the era. Archaeologists believe the items were likely offerings or hidden wealth, underscoring the rich history buried beneath modern development.
In 1994, three explorers followed a faint breeze into a hidden cave and unlocked a 'time capsule' sealed for 30,000 years
Three spelunkers discovered Chauvet Cave in France in 1994. The cave contains ancient artwork dating back 30,000 years. This art shows sophisticated depictions of animals. The discovery changed views on early human history. The cave is now protected, with a replica for visitors. It highlights creativity as an inherent human trait.
Meet Dattatreya Ramchandra Kaprekar: The Indian mathematician who discovered a ‘ghost number’ that always returns to itself
A humble schoolteacher, Dattatreya Ramchandra Kaprekar, discovered the remarkable 6174 constant through simple number experimentation. This number, reached by a specific digit rearrangement process, became a 'ghost number' due to its fixed-point behavior. Initially overlooked, Kaprekar's work gained international acclaim, influencing math education and computer science with its elegant demonstration of iterative computation.
The secret molecule behind your sunburn: Why DNA isn’t the real culprit
Scientists have discovered that RNA, not DNA, is the primary cause of the burning sensation from sunburn. UV exposure damages RNA, triggering a cellular alarm system that leads to inflammation. This groundbreaking finding shifts our understanding of skin protection, emphasizing the need to shield RNA from sun damage to prevent redness and discomfort.
In 1868, a local hunter wandered through the hills and accidentally discovered a prehistoric cave hidden for thousands of years
A hunter's chance discovery in 1868 led to the unearthing of the Altamira Cave, revealing prehistoric art. Initially doubted, these 14,000-year-old cave paintings, showcasing remarkable skill, are now recognized as masterpieces. Preserved by a natural rockfall, the cave offers a glimpse into humanity's ancient artistic expression, reminding us that history often lies hidden in plain sight.