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 54 min ago
In 1876, Alexander Bell patented the telephone, but an Italian inventor built one earlier
In the 1800s, Antonio Meucci invented an innovative voice-transmission device known as the Telettrofono. Unfortunately, due to financial struggles and a lapsed patent, he was unable to secure recognition for his invention. This vacuum paved the way for Alexander Graham Bell to patent the telephone in 1876, igniting a lengthy legal battle. In 2002, the United States Congress finally acknowledged Meucci's vital role in the evolution of voice communication.
Venus clouds may contain 60% water, challenging decades-old theories
Recent re-evaluation of 1978 Pioneer Venus data has unveiled that the clouds of Venus contain a significantly higher concentration of water than previously thought. Notably, these clouds also harbor substantial quantities of iron sulfate alongside sulfuric acid. This revelation challenges the traditional perspective that Venusian clouds consist exclusively of sulfuric acid, hinting at iron's substantial role and raising intriguing questions about the possible habitability of Venus's atmosphere.
Scientists explain how the Antikythera Mechanism copied the Moon's changing speed
In the second century BC, the Antikythera Mechanism astounded ancient astronomers with its ability to imitate the Moon's inconsistent orbital speed through intricate bronze gears. This marvel not only provided calculations for celestial events and lunar phases but also showcased a remarkable blend of Babylonian mathematics and Greek geometry, presenting unmatched sophistication in engineering that persisted for over a millennium.
Zebra mussels are collapsing structures and pipes in Spain's Ebro River since 2001 with a population of 40,000 per square meter
Zebra mussels are proliferating swiftly in Spain's aquatic systems, resulting in considerable harm to infrastructure and creating disturbances in water supply. Experts advocate that modifying infrastructure represents the only effective long-term remedy. The mere removal of adult mussels fails to address the persistent issue of shell buildup. This invasive species has already led to substantial economic repercussions, which are projected to escalate.
Antarctica study reveals how 10 months of isolation changed crew psychology
A fascinating study conducted at an Antarctic research station utilized wearable sensors to monitor crew interactions. Over the ten-month mission, the crew experienced heightened feelings of loneliness and conflict. Notably, team unity and self-perceived performance diminished alongside moderate increases in paranoia. This research shows that the quality of social interactions is more critical than mere frequency, leading to essential insights for spacecraft crew design and Mars mission selection.
Nasa says SpaceX Falcon 9 hit the Moon exactly as predicted
On August 5th, a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket stage made contact with the Moon, presenting scientists with a unique opportunity to study this traceable lunar impact. The stage's trajectory had been influenced by solar activities and gravitational forces over time. Observations were conducted through instruments on Danuri and various ground-based telescopes, capturing the impact and debris plume. This controlled disposal method effectively ensures both safety and valuable scientific insights.
Human brain evolution may have depended on carbs, not just meat
Recent studies indicate that sugars in our diets have played a pivotal role in the evolutionary growth of the human brain over millions of years. Initially, glucose from fruits and honey satisfied the brain's high energy needs. As time progressed, the introduction of cooked starch became essential for early humans, influencing both human physiology and evolutionary paths.
Asteroid Apophis will pass 32,000 km from Earth in 2029, Nasa says
In 2029, asteroid Apophis is set to make a close approach to Earth, presenting scientists with an exceptional chance for observation. NASA's OSIRIS-APEX spacecraft will investigate how this encounter influences Apophis's gravitational dynamics and trajectory. The event is expected to cause significant changes in the asteroid’s orbit and spin, providing valuable insights into the behavior of other S-type asteroids that may pose risks to our planet.
In 1898, Chesapeake Bay was so full of oysters that one grew on a lost set of dentures
The unexpected stumble upon a pair of dentures adorned with an oyster unveils a glimpse into the Chesapeake Bay's vibrant past. Once, these oysters played a crucial role in maintaining water clarity, cleansing it in mere days. Sadly, years of overexploitation and pollution have ravaged their numbers, compromising the bay's water quality. Current efforts are focused on restoring these indispensable natural filters to help revive the ecosystem.
In 1934, scientists heard reports of mushrooms causing visions of tiny people
A groundbreaking discovery reveals that a unique mushroom species, Lanmaoa asiatica, is linked to vivid hallucinations involving tiny figures experienced by communities far and wide. Despite lacking known psychoactive substances upon chemical examination, researchers suspect an unidentified compound is responsible for these captivating visual effects. Unraveling this mystery could provide profound insights into perception and the nature of human consciousness.
Scientists watched a 1km-wide, 100m-thick section of Greenland’s Sorgenfri glacier break away
In a striking display of nature, a massive section of a Greenland glacier detached and collapsed into the sea, captured by scientists on a research vessel. This occurrence unfolded as part of a study examining the implications of meltwater runoff on major ocean currents. Advanced autonomous robots are being utilized to collect vital data from the hazardous ice face.
Study finds climate and extreme weather are pushing butterflies to change habitats worldwide
A global study of 1,758 butterfly species across 105 countries has found that butterflies are rapidly changing where they live as climate change reshapes habitats. While many species are expanding into new areas, others are losing parts of their traditional range. Researchers say these shifts are an early warning of wider ecosystem changes and stress the need for better global monitoring and conservation efforts.
