For centuries, space has fascinated humans like no other. From the sun's glare to the moon's surface and even Saturn's shimmering rings, we have wanted to go up close and see it all. Now, two ambitious NASA-backed projects aim to truly touch Saturn's rings, venturing into what is known as one of the most dangerous environments in the solar system.

In a study published in Nature Communications, researchers from Sweden, US, Switzerland and Norway mapped what lies beneath all the glaciers on the planet and reached a shocking conclusion: when part of this ice disappears, Earth could gain 56,659 new lakes in areas currently completely frozen. This could increase the risk of flooding in Asia, Andes, Alaska and the Arctic

Governments need to proactively address rising sea levels expected within the next thirty to fifty years. Recent data on Antarctic ice loss provides a sound basis for this timeframe. Beyond this period, projections may grow less reliable as melting ice accelerates. This crucial window facilitates necessary improvements to monitoring systems and coastal defenses, particularly for Pacific island nations relying on timely information for critical adaptation strategies.

New research suggests humidity influences insect biological timing. Daily dry and humid swings synchronize circadian rhythms in many species. Fruit flies adjusted activity to humidity shifts, showing internal clock adjustments. Mosquitoes, however, treated moisture as a short-term behavioral cue. This finding highlights humidity as a previously overlooked environmental time cue.

NASA developed non-rubber, airless metal tyres using Nitinol. These puncture-proof tyres adapts to harsh terrain and extreme temperatures without damage, offering a smooth ride. Future applications may include heavy-duty trucks and commercial aircraft landing gear.

In a groundbreaking experiment, scientists have successfully synthesised interstellar cosmic dust in a controlled laboratory environment. This artificial version mirrors the particles detected by space telescopes, offering a unique opportunity to delve into the origins of carbon-rich cosmic dust that formed eons ago. Notably, this research illuminates the potential delivery of essential components for both planets and life, creating a fascinating intersection of astronomy and experimental chemistry.

Neptune, a distant ice giant, experiences remarkably strong winds. These winds exceed 2,000 kilometers per hour, far surpassing Earth's speeds. Scientists believe internal heat drives Neptune's powerful atmospheric activity. Voyager 2 observed immense storms like the Great Dark Spot. This world challenges assumptions about solar energy and wind generation.

A pioneering development in space materials, the recently created 'Moon cement' derived from lunar and Martian simulants has shown exceptional durability, surviving for half a year outside the International Space Station unscathed. Remarkably, one formulation achieved a 35% boost in compressive strength over Earth-based counterparts, illuminating promising avenues for constructing habitats on the Moon utilizing local soil resources.

Solar Impulse 2 completed the first fuel-free flight around the world. The aircraft traveled approximately 40,000 kilometers using only solar energy. It relied on solar cells and onboard batteries to power electric motors. This mission demonstrated advanced engineering and renewable energy capabilities in aviation. The project inspired future developments in electric aircraft technology.

A surprising new scientific study has revealed that the heart has a small network of neurons capable of controlling essential bodily functions. The research conducted at Yale University in US, was published in July 2026 in the scientific journal Cell. It revealed that this nervous system participates in regulating heartbeats and also protects the organ during physical or physiological stress situations.