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Catch up on the latest science news, from space and technology to life and environmental research- all the discoveries shaping our world today.
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Meet Max Hung Nguyen: The 17-year-old who used NASA data and AI to predict planets

18/08/2026
Max Hung Nguyen utilized NASA data alongside the Hypatia Catalogue to conduct an in-depth analysis of stellar composition. By examining a variety of elements beyond just iron, he uncovered that giant planets tend to orbit stars enriched with heavy elements. To further this research, Nguyen developed an AI model dedicated to predicting absent elemental data, significantly enhancing the chances of discovering new planets in future explorations.

Meet Kiefer and Amelia Chow: California siblings copying beavers to restore habitats

18/08/2026
Kiefer and Amelia Chow have launched Eco-Engineering In Action, an initiative aimed at mitigating wildfire threats. By creating beaver dam analogues, they replicate natural flood control systems that effectively slow water flow, enhance wetlands, and reduce wildfire risks. Their efforts, driven by youth volunteers, have successfully restored over thirty-five acres of wetland, inspiring the next generation to actively engage in climate solutions.

Atolls take 30 million years to form, yet support 31 million seabirds

18/08/2026
Atolls across the Indo-Pacific support thirty-one million nesting seabirds annually. These islands provide essential breeding grounds for many tropical seabird species. Seabird droppings return significant nutrients to island and ocean ecosystems. This nutrient deposition helps marine and terrestrial environments thrive. Protecting these fragile atolls is crucial for wildlife and human communities.

Nasa aircraft chase giant fire clouds over Utah that rise into Earth's atmosphere

17/08/2026
NASA's aerial teams are conducting studies on distinctive pyrocumulonimbus clouds formed by wildfires in Utah. These impressive smoke formations elevate particles high into the atmosphere, with scientific teams collecting samples from around twelve kilometers above ground. This research sheds light on the interaction between fires and weather patterns, enhancing our understanding of smoke's extended influence on global atmospheric conditions.

How 14-year-old Miles Wu is using origami to design stronger shelters

17/08/2026
In a groundbreaking study, young scholar Miles Wu delves into the use of origami techniques for emergency shelters. He meticulously examined fifty-four variations of the Miura-ori pattern and discovered that some designs could withstand more than nine thousand times their own weight. This ancient art form uncovers new possibilities for portable disaster relief structures. Wu’s research underscores the importance of geometric principles in enhancing the efficiency of materials.

Smithsonian uses X-rays, cups and 216-yard threads to find turtle nests; 13 of 16 were raided

17/08/2026
Smithsonian scientists are utilising cutting-edge methods to identify turtle nesting sites, revealing that numerous nests fall prey to predators shortly after egg deposition. This alarming finding signals a crucial risk to the Eastern box turtle population. By monitoring turtle movements and nesting patterns, the research seeks to illuminate survival rates, which is vital for effective conservation initiatives.

NASA-backed aerobots could explore caves on Saturn's moon Titan

17/08/2026
Nasa is backing a new concept for small flying robots to explore caves on Saturn's moon Titan. These proposed vehicles, called aerobots, would use silent electrohydrodynamic thrusters for movement. Titan's dense atmosphere could make this propulsion system highly efficient and practical for exploration. The SPARK project is currently in an early research phase, focusing on feasibility studies. This technology could significantly expand future exploration of Titan's hidden underground environments.

Would you eat ketchup that was made from algae but fulfilled your protein intake? Scientists have just created one

17/08/2026
Researchers are enhancing ketchup by incorporating protein extracted from microalgae. This exciting advancement greatly increases the protein levels in this beloved condiment. Studies showed that adding moderate amounts of algae preserved the familiar taste and look of ketchup, while excessive levels changed its flavor and hue. Microalgae represent a sustainable, effective method for enriching food with vital proteins.

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