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.

Innovative Australian researchers have developed a groundbreaking reusable magnetic material that effectively eliminates over ninety-five percent of microplastics from water. This remarkable technology also exhibits potential in removing harmful PFAS chemicals. The magnetic powder quickly captures tiny plastic particles and heavy metals, enabling easy recovery with magnets after use, thereby significantly cutting down on waste and operational costs. This advancement offers a promising solution for global water treatment facilities.

Research reveals mining for green energy minerals harms fragile ecosystems globally. These essential minerals cause deforestation and endanger unique species in sensitive areas. Lithium mining projects often lead to social tensions and conflicts in affected regions. A balanced approach is needed to protect biodiversity while transitioning to clean energy.

Nasa's NISAR satellite captured Antarctica's unique hummingbird ice formation. This striking pattern resulted from a mountain interrupting the slow movement of glacier ice. Advanced radar technology mapped hidden details within the icy terrain, revealing cracks and shifting patterns. The image shows how Antarctica's glaciers respond to the landscape beneath them. This joint mission between Nasa and Isro uses sophisticated radar systems.

Approximately 470 million years ago, ancient mollusc shells started to serve as habitats for small sea creatures, initiating a profound ecological transformation across global ocean ecosystems. These empty shells offered safe havens and surfaces for tiny marine animals to cling to, with their shapes playing crucial roles in determining the size and variety of these diverse communities, an ancient behavior that laid the groundwork for today's oceanic life.

South Korean scientists have developed a novel method for converting wet coffee grounds into fuel. Their plasma pyrolysis technique uses moisture as an advantage, transforming waste in just ninety seconds. This process creates a porous biochar with a heating value comparable to coal. The technology could also be adapted for other wet organic waste streams. This innovation offers a practical solution for energy recovery from abundant discarded materials.

A remarkable ice core from the Alps has revealed a comprehensive climate timeline spanning 2,000 years. It documents early instances of metal smelting, extensive forest fires, and even volcanic ash from distant eruptions. This icy archive acts as a vital record of air quality in Europe before industrial contaminants took hold. As glaciers retreat, scientists are in a race against time to safeguard these precious climate memories for future generations.

Scientists have created the first comprehensive map of the Great Barrier Reef's open-water microbiome by analysing DNA from 48 reefs. The study identified 584 previously unknown bacterial species and more than 362,000 viruses. Researchers say the database could help monitor reef health and detect environmental changes before visible damage appears.