Nasa researchers observed freshwater snails reproducing in space during a Shuttle mission. Their gravity-sensing organs, called statoconia, grew substantially larger in microgravity. Swordtail fish larvae also developed enlarged otoliths, which are similar gravity-sensing stones. This indicated a critical developmental period where altered gravity impacts stone size. The findings suggest these organs regulate to achieve a functional weight.

Five geckos flew on a 16-day space mission without food or water. This experiment tested reptiles as models for microgravity research. Laboratory analysis revealed changes in bone density and liver cell activity. Researchers attributed these changes to housing and lack of provisions. Geckos' specialized toe pads helped them adhere in weightlessness.

Nasa launched rhesus monkey Miss Sam in January 1960 to test Project Mercury's escape system. The flight confirmed the escape tower's ability to pull the capsule clear of its booster. Miss Sam reached 1,800 mph and an altitude of nine miles before recovery. Her mission data helped assess the safety of the Mercury spacecraft for human flights. Behavioral and physiological monitoring pioneered on her flight influenced later primate missions.

Researchers created an artificial reef from coal-fired power station waste in Poole Bay. Marine life began colonizing the structure almost immediately after its deployment. Adult lobsters and edible crabs reached the reef within three weeks of its placement. The structure attracted schools of pouting and supported reproduction for several species. This experiment showed industrial waste could become a productive marine habitat.

Swiss engineers have developed miniature robots that fly and steer without motors. These devices harness sound waves through Helmholtz resonance to generate directional thrust. Researchers demonstrated this principle by steering tiny boats and lifting microfliers off the ground. One microflier design used three microscopic cavities for direct vertical thrust. Another version spun tiny blades, generating helicopter-like lift at high speeds.

A groundbreaking 17-year study on Lake 223 in Ontario revealed a complex response to acid rain. While the water chemistry has recovered since the experiment ended, the ecosystem is lagging behind. Fish numbers have not rebounded as hoped, with growth rates remaining low. This underscores the vital message that true ecological healing involves much more than merely restoring chemical balance.

Researchers have identified a piezoelectric effect in ultrathin diamond membranes. This effect, previously unseen in bulk diamond, appears in thin polycrystalline sheets. Grain boundaries within these membranes are responsible for generating electrical responses when deformed. The strongest piezoelectric response was observed in membranes approximately five micrometres thick. This discovery opens doors for new applications in energy harvesting and smart electronics.

Scientists mapped enormous lava flow fields on an underwater volcano. These flows are significantly larger than any previously recorded eruptions. Molten rock pooled beneath a hardened crust, swelling to extraordinary thickness. This process reshaped the ocean floor and offers clues about caldera collapse. Researchers estimate the next major caldera-forming eruption may occur thousands of years from now.

Sea otters, once nearly extinct due to excessive hunting, have successfully rebounded in British Columbia, playing a crucial role in stabilizing kelp forests by curbing sea urchin overpopulation. However, their increasing numbers have drawn attention to the plight of northern abalone, a critical food source threatened by otter predation. Finding the right balance in conservation strategies is essential to protect both species from growing pressures.

Advocating for biodiversity, E.O. Wilson suggests that dedicating half of Earth to nature is crucial for preventing a sixth mass extinction. In conjunction, M.C. Davis has embarked on an ambitious project to restore the longleaf pine ecosystem in the Southeastern U.S., investing extensively in native species reintroduction and tree planting. His Nokuse Plantation represents a major step toward preserving essential habitats for countless species.

Brazil’s humpback whale population has recovered from about 2,000 to nearly 35,000 after commercial whaling pushed the species close to extinction. Protection measures and a global whaling ban helped the whales return to Brazil’s waters. Scientists are now studying their migration, family links and behaviour, while tracking threats from fishing nets, ships and warming seas.