New research reveals western India's savannas are ancient natural ecosystems. Historical texts from the 13th century describe open, grass-rich landscapes. This challenges the long-held view of these areas as degraded forests. Conservation efforts, particularly tree planting, may be harming these established environments. Understanding this history is crucial for effective protection.

Indian-origin Vandi Verma is at the helm of a groundbreaking NASA achievement: Mars rover Perseverance's first AI-planned drives. These December 2025 maneuvers along Jezero Crater's rim showcase advanced AI analyzing terrain and identifying hazards, significantly reducing human planning time. This marks a pivotal shift, promising more efficient and responsive deep-space exploration as missions venture further from Earth.

New genetic findings from 7,000-year-old mummies in Libya are rewriting ancient history. These individuals belong to a unique North African ancestry, previously unknown to scientists. This discovery suggests that pastoralism spread through cultural exchange, not mass migration, into isolated groups. The findings challenge long-held beliefs about how ancient populations interacted and survived in North Africa.

Diabetes remission, once a distant dream, is now a scientifically proven reality for many with Type 2 diabetes. Landmark studies like DiRECT and meta-analyses confirm that significant weight loss, coupled with dietary changes and exercise, can lead to normal blood sugar levels, often reducing or eliminating medication dependence. Early intervention is key.

Deforestation in Brazil's Atlantic Forest is forcing mosquitoes to feed on humans more frequently, a new study reveals. This shift significantly elevates the risk of diseases like dengue and Zika for communities near forest edges. Scientists warn this behavioural change in mosquitoes is a critical, often unseen, consequence of habitat loss, impacting public health long before outbreaks occur.

In 1905, Albert Einstein revolutionized physics by demonstrating that time is not absolute but relative to the observer's motion. He showed that space and time are intertwined into a single fabric called spacetime, which is curved by mass, explaining gravity as geometry. This fundamental shift altered our understanding of the universe's dynamic nature.

Scientists achieved a genetic breakthrough by removing an extra human chromosome using gene-editing technology. This landmark study successfully deleted the surplus chromosome 21 responsible for Down syndrome in laboratory cells. Gene activity patterns in these edited cells closely resembled normal cells. This marks the first time a chromosomal condition has been corrected at its root.

Scientists are now tracking falling satellites by listening to Earth's vibrations. Powerful shockwaves from re-entering space debris are detected by earthquake-monitoring instruments, allowing for near real-time reconstruction of flight paths and landing zones. This seismic method offers a crucial new way to understand where debris lands, complementing existing tracking systems.