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 39 min ago
A vampire burial: A Polish woman was buried with a sickle to stop her rising from the grave
Unveiled by time, Zosia's grave in Pień offers a glimpse into 17th century Polish traditions regarding death and the supernatural. Archaeologists found an iron sickle and a toe-bound padlock alongside her remains, suggesting efforts to prevent her from rising as a vampire. This peculiar burial practice hints at Zosia's affluent background, compelling researchers to dive deeper into her life and the cultural fears that shaped her final resting place.
113-million-year-old fossil reveals new dinosaur species named after Dooly
A remarkable discovery has unveiled a new dinosaur species named Doolysaurus huhmin in South Korea, with fossils tracing back approximately 113 million years. Found on Aphae Islands, the juvenile skeletal remains are significant due to the scarcity of dinosaur fossils, typically overshadowed by more common footprints and eggshells. Researchers employed a micro-CT scanner for detailed analysis of the fossil, enhancing knowledge about the diverse dinosaur history in the region.
Canadian scientists find dark colours and stripes could make buildings safer for seabirds
A study conducted at a seabird colony in Canada found that darker colours and patterned surfaces could reduce bird collisions caused by artificial lighting at night. Researchers discovered that vertically striped sheets recorded 2.8 times fewer bird collisions than plain sheets, while black sheets performed better than white ones. The findings could help make coastal buildings, ships and offshore facilities safer for seabirds.
Meet Ramya Manjunath Anche, the Bengaluru-born astronomer leading NASA's PUFFINS telescope mission
Ramya Manjunath Anche, an enthusiastic researcher based in Bengaluru, is at the forefront of NASA's groundbreaking PUFFINS mission dedicated to exploring the enigmatic realm of interstellar dust. With a generous funding of $20 million and a launch projected in 2030, Anche, who holds degrees in engineering and astrophysics, collaborates with a diverse team of 40 researchers from various institutions.
DNA from 30,000-year-old woman in France challenges beliefs about Ice Age populations
Scientists have discovered genetic links between eastern and western European populations after analysing DNA from a woman who lived around 30,000 years ago in southwestern France. The study, led by the University of Vienna, challenges earlier assumptions that Ice Age populations remained largely isolated. Researchers also recovered ancient human DNA from cave sediments in Spain, revealing long-term population continuity and connections across Europe.
Murtho Habitat Restoration: Former vineyard revived for regent parrots; family project spans generations
After departing from the wine industry, Tony and Cherie Townsend embarked on a remarkable project to repurpose their 40-acre vineyard into a sanctuary for regent parrots. Their family and local volunteers, spanning four generations, are actively involved in this conservation initiative. Backed by the Murraylands and Riverland Landscape Board, over 3,000 native seedlings have been planted, fostering vital habitats and illustrating the crucial role private land plays in enhancing biodiversity.
Record Subsurface Warming In Monterey Bay: MBARI logs 18.18°C at 60m; tropical species move north
Scientists have announced that temperatures at 200 feet off Monterey Bay have reached their highest levels in nearly forty years. This rise is attributed to the forthcoming 2026-27 El Niño, with sightings of tropical species migrating northward, suggesting significant ecological transformations. These shifts in ocean conditions pose a risk to deep-sea food availability, impacting various marine ecosystems.
In 2013, divers started placing simple cinder-block pyramids on a Caribbean seabed
Initiated in 2013, the Grenada Artificial Reef Project employs concrete blocks to foster marine life habitats. Remarkable progress was observed shortly after, with algae and various invertebrates flourishing on the structures. However, while research shows these artificial reefs attract species typical of natural environments, further studies are essential to evaluate their role in aiding natural reef recovery and assessing their long-term effects on adjacent ecosystems.
New Hampshire closed 20 acres of Great Bay to shellfish harvesting for 5 years from November 1
The Fish and Game Department of New Hampshire has initiated a five-year period of closure at Great Bay to facilitate oyster restoration efforts. This move affects two key sites, one near Woodman Point and another near Nannie Island. Significant measures are being implemented to combat the alarming 90% decline in oyster reefs since 1970, involving collaboration between researchers and conservation groups to rejuvenate oyster populations and restore essential marine habitats.
New York volunteers spent seven years preparing six 175-pound reef balls for Eastchester Bay
After years of meticulous planning, volunteers from City Island Oyster Reef successfully installed six reef balls in Eastchester Bay. These structures were intentionally seeded with oyster larvae to bolster local oyster populations. This initiative stems from thorough monitoring of both water quality and the ecosystem around City Island. Remarkably, marine species like fish and crabs have started to thrive in the area.
