Ancient wooden boats, some dating back 5,200 years, have been discovered in Wisconsin's Lake Mendota. This significant find reveals long-term Indigenous communities with advanced knowledge of resources, mobility, and engineering. The strategically placed boats suggest a sophisticated system of shared transport and resource access, reshaping our understanding of early North American travel networks.

Across the world, winter’s sudden freezes trigger sharp, gunshot-like cracks in trees, known as frost cracking. While branches may fall, fully “exploding” trees are extremely rare. Experts stress most cracks are harmless and self-heal, and caution that some dramatic viral videos are staged or manipulated for virality, rather than showing real danger.

A new study using fossil evidence suggests extinct giant kangaroos, some weighing up to 250kg, were physically capable of hopping. Researchers found their bones and Achilles tendons were strong enough to withstand the impact of jumping. While not as efficient as modern kangaroos for long distances, this capability could have been used for bursts of speed or escape.

The ocean floor is becoming a massive plastic dump, with debris accumulating in deep-sea canyons and harming marine life. Scientists warn that this hidden pollution, dominated by plastics and ghost fishing gear, poses a long-term threat to hundreds of species. Prevention is the only viable solution, as deep-sea cleanup is impractical.

A portable vein finder developed by Vivolight has gained attention for its ability to project a live vein map onto the skin. This near-infrared light technology aids clinicians in quickly and accurately locating veins for medical procedures, especially in challenging cases. The device offers a practical solution for routine medical care, improving efficiency and patient comfort.

Dr. Gladys West, a pioneering mathematician whose work in satellite geodesy was crucial for modern GPS accuracy, has passed away at 95. For decades, her vital contributions to modeling Earth's shape and gravitational forces remained largely unrecognized. Her legacy is now celebrated, highlighting her impact on everyday navigation and her role as a barrier-breaking figure in STEM.