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 35 min ago
Computer scientist who created world's first chatbot in the 1960s spent his whole life warning that AI should never replace humans, and the reason will shock you
In the 1960s, Joseph Weizenbaum pioneered the first chatbot, named Eliza, which unveiled a startling truth: humans could emotionally bond with machines. This insight led him to caution against the potential of AI usurping human empathy. Weizenbaum's assertions about the risks of deceiving machines fostering misplaced trust echo powerfully in today's landscape of artificial intelligence.
One of the world's largest T. rex skeletons is heading to auction with a price tag of up to $30 million
A remarkable Tyrannosaurus rex fossil, affectionately dubbed Gus, is set to hit the auction block at Sotheby's. Measuring an impressive 38 feet in length, this nearly complete skeleton is anticipated to attract bids ranging from twenty to thirty million dollars. Its outstanding preservation and size underscore Gus's significance within the growing market for collectible dinosaur fossils.
Scientists in Singapore have found a way to transform shrimp shell waste into 'carbon-negative' hydrogen fuel, turning biomass waste into valuable climate solutions
Researchers have pioneered a groundbreaking method that transforms organic waste into hydrogen fuel, while simultaneously generating protein suitable for aquaculture feed and calcium carbonate. This innovative technology aims to achieve a carbon-neutral process, capturing more carbon dioxide than it emits. Ongoing investigations are focused on potential commercial uses for this adaptable technology, though scaling up remains a notable hurdle to achieving widespread use.
Towering trees more than 200 feet tall may not be as vulnerable to drought as scientists thought, new study reveals how Southeast Asia’s dipterocarps efficiently move water
Recent studies unveil that massive trees in Southeast Asia possess remarkable adaptations in their water transport mechanisms. These trees, known for reaching impressive heights, can effectively draw water upward, defying the challenges posed by gravity. This groundbreaking research, focusing on Malaysia's dipterocarps, shows that taller trees feature broader xylem vessels, offering fresh insights into their resilience amidst climate change.
Mysterious 'space balls' twice the size of basketballs wash ashore on Australian beach, scientists say the discovery is more common than many people think
Metallic spheres have mysteriously appeared on an Australian beach, sparking local alarm. After thorough investigation, authorities determined the oddities were actually remnants of space debris—specifically pressure vessels from rocket launch vehicles that survived their fiery return to Earth. With the surge in space explorations, experts predict that encounters with such debris will become more frequent as launches increase.
Egypt has uncovered a well-preserved 1,600-year-old Byzantine-era city in Dakhla Oasis: Homes, basilica church, ovens, coins and writing fragments show how people lived in the western desert
Egypt has unveiled remarkable archaeological discoveries that shed light on its rich historical heritage. Among these is a remarkably preserved Byzantine-era city located in the western desert, which reveals fascinating details about urban life and development during that time. Additionally, the recent unearthing of eighteen ancient tombs near Alexandria enhances the region's archaeological narrative, aiming to invigorate Egypt's crucial tourism industry.
A 1,700-year-old inscription found at a Mithras temple mentions Jesus Christ and may show how Christianity overtook a mysterious Roman cult
An Aramaic inscription found at Zerzevan Castle documents the closure of a Mithras temple. This ancient text provides rare written evidence of religious transition in Roman Turkey. The inscription, dating to the third or fourth century AD, mentions both Mithras and Jesus Christ. It also includes references to the Holy Cross, signifying a Christian presence. This discovery adds to other early Christian archaeological finds in present-day Turkey.
El Nino impact: India’s hydropower generation sees steepest drop since Feb 2024; piles pressure on grid
Data from the India Meteorological Department showed that cumulative rainfall across the country was 38% below normal until July 1, largely due to the development of El Niño conditions over the Pacific Ocean, which affected the southwest monsoon running from June to September.
