Astronomers used the Hubble Space Telescope to measure the expanding Crab Nebula. New images compared with older ones show gas filaments moving outwards. This ancient stellar explosion's remnant is still actively changing today. The Crab Pulsar at the center continues to power the nebula's glow. Scientists also identified previously unrecognised filament structures within the nebula.

In a groundbreaking initiative, Rajasthan has constructed an expansive artificial lake designed to augment water supply, benefitting around five million residents in Jaisalmer and Barmer. Lined with plastic to mitigate evaporation, this reservoir aims to maintain water supply during canal repairs. The grand opening of this essential water project is anticipated for July 2026.

Thomas Szasz noted people face criticism whether they express strong opinions or remain silent. He observed that holding firm views leads to labels of being opinionated. Conversely, avoiding firm positions results in accusations of lacking conviction. This paradox highlights the impossibility of avoiding judgment from others. Ultimately, the focus should be on well-considered views, not on evading all objections.

A 3,000-year-old tomb near Luxor has been discovered by archaeologists. This tomb is believed to belong to a senior official named Paser. Inscriptions within the tomb reveal his prestigious titles and administrative roles. The structure offers insights into ancient burial customs and beliefs about the afterlife. Further exploration promises more details about Paser and ancient Thebes.

European researchers have proposed a new rocket concept called RLV C5. This design offers a partially reusable launch vehicle for Europe's heavy lift needs. The RLV C5 utilizes liquid hydrogen and oxygen, which is more efficient. Its booster would glide back and be captured by an aircraft. This approach aims to reduce development complexity and cost for Europe.

Avicenna's ancient wisdom emphasizes personal responsibility for actions and outcomes. He argued that objects and circumstances do not possess agency to cause harm. Individuals are accountable for their choices and how they utilize available resources. This principle applies universally to tools, wealth, and knowledge. Accepting this responsibility is the starting point for true wisdom.

Five Indian students—Kanishk Jain, Riddhesh Anant Bendale, Rishit Garg, Shresth Suraiya and Svarit Joshi—created history by winning gold medals at the 56th International Physics Olympiad 2026 in Colombia. Their achievement helped India rank joint World No. 1 alongside leading science nations. The feat highlights the strength of India’s Olympiad training ecosystem and showcases the advanced problem-solving, theoretical knowledge and experimental skills required to succeed at one of the world’s toughest physics competitions.

In a groundbreaking experiment, scientists have successfully replicated the extreme conditions found around black holes in a controlled laboratory environment. This remarkable feat validates theories regarding energy harnessing from rotating black holes. By artificially inducing rotation in a fixed apparatus, they effectively simulated cosmic energy mechanisms. This pivotal advancement holds promise for innovations in communication technologies and quantum computing, bridging the gap between intricate astrophysical theories and tangible scientific application.

Two invasive species of Asian praying mantis are proliferating rapidly across Europe, posing a significant threat to local pollinators and endangered small wildlife. Urban areas and rising global temperatures enable their northward spread. Engaging in citizen science initiatives is essential for monitoring and managing these aggressive insect populations. Additionally, seasonal removal of egg cases can effectively mitigate their environmental impact.

Recent research indicates that a mother's brain undergoes distinct transformations during second pregnancies compared to the first. These adaptations enhance attention and sensory processing, facilitating the care of multiple children. Notably, brain scans clearly differentiated between first and second pregnancies, revealing connections to maternal bonding experiences and potential peripartum depression risks. This study sheds light on how maternal brains adapt and underscores the need for mental health support.

Centuries-old Japanese temples are still repaired using an ancient woodworking technique. This method, called kigumi, involves precisely carved wooden joints that fit together without metal fasteners. The technique allows structures to withstand earthquakes and humid weather, which is crucial in Japan. Master carpenters, known as miyadaiku, pass down this skill which dates back over 1,400 years. This sustainable craft ensures the longevity of historic buildings and reduces construction waste

Recent scientific research has revealed that the surface atoms of gold can rearrange themselves to create a protective barrier against oxidation. This extraordinary natural mechanism significantly reduces tarnishing rates by up to a trillion times, ensuring gold retains its radiant luster. This discovery opens up possibilities for industrial applications, allowing gold to be utilized as an even more efficient catalyst.

A 2004 US Navy training mission encountered an unexplained aerial object. Pilots and radar operators observed a peculiar "Tic Tac" shaped craft. Infrared video footage later surfaced, adding to the mystery. This incident gained widespread attention after a 2017 New York Times report. The Pentagon has not provided a definitive explanation for the sighting.

A Chilean salmon farm replaced diesel generators with floating solar panels. This initiative significantly cut emissions and fuel consumption annually. The new system also created a quieter and more sheltered environment for the fish. Thousands of salmon have now gathered beneath the floating solar structures. This project demonstrates renewable energy's unexpected environmental benefits beyond emission reduction.

The successful trial marks another milestone in the global race to develop reusable launch systems that can significantly reduce the cost of sending payloads into space. Unlike conventional rockets, which are designed for a single mission before their components fall into the sea, burn up in the atmosphere or remain in orbit as debris, reusable rockets are designed to return safely for future launches.

Carl Friedrich Gauss questioned complex philosophical claims. He believed true statements were often simple and obvious. Complicated ideas should raise suspicion, not admiration, he noted. True understanding simplifies complex observations into clear principles. This perspective remains a useful test for evaluating claims today.