The 66-million-year-old feather found inside fossilised dinosaur poop may offer clues about why some birds survived the asteroid impact that killed most dinosaurs. Researchers found feathers, fish scales and bird bones in the coprolite. The feather’s primitive structure suggests insulation and moulting may have played a role in determining which birds survived.

Ancient auroras are unlocking secrets of solar activity, offering scientists a glimpse into the Sun's behavior long before our time. By employing a new statistical method to analyze historical sky observations, researchers have pieced together eight distinct cycles of solar activity from 1560 to 1640. This intriguing study correlates well with various independent solar records, enhancing our understanding of solar dynamics pre-dating contemporary measurements.

MIT engineers have pioneered an eco-conscious method of producing water filters from tree sapwood. These natural filters successfully eradicate more than 99% of bacteria and viruses found in water. During testing in India, researchers worked closely with local populations to create a user-friendly prototype that is both effective and cost-efficient. This sustainable solution is poised to enhance access to clean drinking water in numerous communities.

Researchers have discovered that spider webs serve as fascinating collectors of genetic material from nearby vertebrates. In a comprehensive study in Australia, vertebrate DNA was detected across all samples, providing insights into thirty-two species at sanctuaries and sixty-one at zoos. The quantity of detectable DNA varied with animal size and distance, hinting that webs could offer an innovative approach to monitoring wildlife without the need for direct interaction.

The introduction of trout in Sierra Nevada lakes has had a noteworthy impact on bird populations, leading to a reduction in their numbers. The fish also changed the diversity of bird species present near the water. Additionally, mayflies, an essential part of the birds' diet, declined in lakes with trout.

A project involved volunteers experiencing wildlife senses near the River Tone. Participants observed risks to red deer, otters, and other animals. They identified threats like dog activity and train noise impacting wildlife. This approach helps recognize overlooked environmental dangers to animals. The methodology will be used in other communities and settings.

As India's space industry develops, it urgently needs a Space Act to provide stringent legal support. Initiated in 2020, the opening of this sector, alongside the establishment of IN-SPACe, has highlighted gaps in existing policies. A robust Space Act would not only outline company rights but also enhance regulatory clarity, paving the way for the sector's growth and improved global positioning.

In a remarkable excavation at Deultum, Bulgaria, archaeologists uncovered the remains of a young man entombed within a sizable storage jar. The evidence indicates he sought refuge there during a devastating attack, likely after the flames had already engulfed the area. His plight, frozen in time as the jar was later rebuilt over, provides a poignant glimpse into the terror and desperation of ancient times.

Research indicates that loud human noises and bright lights were effective in driving deer and elk away from crops, while predator sounds and dog barks didn’t have the same effect. Over a period of six weeks, these animals became accustomed to the deterrents, especially those near human activity. Researchers recommend diversifying stimuli and introducing consequences to keep these animals from adapting.

Feral pigs were eradicated from Santa Cruz Island, facilitating a resurgence in fox populations. With bald eagles no longer in the area, golden eagles preyed on the island's foxes. In response, conservationists captured the golden eagles and reintroduced the native bald eagles. A captive breeding initiative safeguarded the remaining island foxes from predators, resulting in a successful revival of the island's native wildlife and ecosystem.

In a groundbreaking revelation, ancient DNA analysis has clarified that Miracinonyx trumani is more closely related to pumas than cheetahs. This extinct cat thrived in North America during the Pleistocene epoch and had the unique ability to fish in colder regions. While its structure suggested agility, evolutionary genetics indicated that convergence was at play, with low genetic variety likely contributing to its disappearance from the ecosystem.

Archaeologists discovered a unique island in Fiji composed mostly of discarded shellfish remains. Radiocarbon dating suggests the island formed around 760 CE from human activity. Researchers believe people processed large amounts of shellfish at this location. This site may represent the first described midden island east of Papua New Guinea. Further surveys will investigate the island's connection to nearby settlements and past events.

A former engineer from NASA has made an exciting claim regarding propulsion technology. His company has engineered a device that generates thrust purely through electric fields, without expelling any mass. This groundbreaking technology has shown consistent improvements in force generation over several years. Upcoming space demonstrations are expected to exhibit the full potential of this cutting-edge innovation.