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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.
Updated: 18 min 53 sec ago

Dubai is growing coral in hotel lagoons before moving it back to the sea

29/10/2026
In an ambitious effort to rejuvenate its marine life, Dubai is spearheading the Dubai Reef initiative, directed by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism. The project focuses on restoring coral biodiversity along the coastal waters of the city. The Al Naseem nursery has successfully generated a variety of coral fragments that are being reintroduced into their natural habitat.

Rock that sank over 90 kilometres into Earth reveals a sharp shift in thermal gradient

29/10/2026
A rock found on Goodenough Island indicates an unexpected thermal gradient change during its descent deep within Earth's crust. Researchers estimated that this rock traveled over 90 kilometres into a subduction zone about 4.4 million years ago. Initial warm conditions shifted to a cold thermal regime as it descended further into the Earth. Both shearing stress and the youth of the subduction zone may explain this temperature change.

Do spiders dream? Researchers studying spiders have found sleep patterns resembling REM sleep

28/10/2026
A recent study on Australian jumping spiders has uncovered that these creatures undergo unique sleep stages, reminiscent of REM sleep. The observed sleep patterns, characterized by distinct periods of stillness interspersed with muscle movements and eye twitches, suggest that spiders possess more advanced sleep mechanisms than previously believed. Future research aims to explore their natural sleeping behaviors, offering insights into the links between sleep and cognitive processes across species.

Meet Bailey Quinn Frank, 15, who won $25,000 for her low-cost air sampler among nearly 2,000 applicants

28/10/2026
Bailey Quinn Frank, a 15-year-old student from Fort Lauderdale, won a $25,000 award for her innovation. She developed a low-cost device to collect airborne bacterial DNA, benefiting environmental health monitoring. Frank's project displayed differences in bacterial communities in indoor and outdoor air samples. The competition included various challenges focusing on scientific problem-solving and teamwork. Her award highlights the potential of affordable scientific approaches to address real-world challenges.

US clocks go back on November 1: Why the extra hour of sleep may still leave you tired for days

28/10/2026
As the clock strikes midnight on November 1, countless Americans will spring forward into a new rhythm, thanks to the end of daylight saving time. This shift can throw off sleep schedules, leaving many feeling sluggish for several days. To counteract the potential grogginess, experts recommend maintaining a steady sleep routine and soaking up morning sunlight.

Italian farmer finds mystery seeds in attic, grows ancient ‘miracle wheat’ with seven ears on one stalk that could help crops withstand drought

28/10/2026
In a remarkable find, Claudio Grossi, an Italian farmer, unearthed an ancient wheat variety known as Triticum turgidum, which is believed to be over a century old. This heritage wheat demonstrated impressive drought resistance compared to its modern counterparts. Experts highlight the significance of genetic diversity in crops to combat climate change impacts, further prompting research into the nutritional upsides and drawbacks of this time-honored grain in modern agriculture.

Scientists develop 3D cloak that hides complex objects from infrared cameras

28/10/2026
Researchers at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and Technical University of Denmark developed a thermal invisibility cloak. This cloak effectively hides complex objects from infrared cameras while managing extreme temperatures. It successfully redirected heat away from intricate shapes during testing, demonstrating its potential applications in electronics and security. Future work will focus on concealing heat-generating objects to enhance technological capabilities.

Cartwheeling Snakes Escape Danger: Dwarf reeds roll at 12 feet per second; study reveals unusual locomotion

28/10/2026
In innovative research, scientists observed dwarf reed snakes in Southeast Asia adeptly using rapid cartwheeling to escape threats. Achieving speeds of 5.6 to 12.1 feet per second, this striking movement technique aids their survival against predators in the wild. These findings shed light on the diverse locomotion strategies of small reptiles, prompting further investigations into the mechanics and energy costs of their remarkable escape tactics.

Scientists find that the meaning of all language is organised around power & order

28/10/2026
A groundbreaking study from the University of Vermont has unveiled a new perspective on language meaning. Contrary to earlier beliefs, researchers discovered that emotional dimensions in language are interdependent. Meaning is more effectively categorized into three distinct dimensions: power, danger, and structure. This revelation could transform language analysis, especially in the realm of artificial intelligence, prompting a need for further research into its applicability across various languages and cultures.

Scientists collected DNA from seawater at 316 sites across Japan;126 fish species farther north

28/10/2026
Japan is witnessing a dramatic transformation in its marine ecosystems as rising ocean temperatures prompt fish species to migrate northward. An extensive research effort involving the analysis of water samples has revealed profound implications for local fisheries, economies, and the overall health of marine life. With the introduction of new species, traditional fishing methods may need to evolve, underscoring the crucial role of environmental DNA in monitoring these biodiversity changes.

After 1,600 years, researchers recreate the colour-changing glass of a Roman masterpiece

28/10/2026
A team of researchers has made a groundbreaking achievement by replicating the color-shifting glass of the ancient Roman Lycurgus Cup. Created 1,600 years ago, this unique glass displays stunning optical effects thanks to its tiny gold and silver nanoparticles. Their rigorous experimentation with both ancient and modern techniques opens doors for scientific advancements, extending beyond mere artistic creation. A modern sculpture inspired by this historic artifact will soon be unveiled.

Teen invents affordable wearable stethoscope to improve diagnostics

28/10/2026
Kayley Xu, a Year 12 student, developed Aucura, a wearable stethoscope designed to enhance respiratory diagnostics and access. After recovering from pneumonia, she sought to improve traditional stethoscopes that have changed little over time. Xu overcame challenges by creating a model of the human torso to test her device effectively. Her design aims to be affordable for clinics in rural and underfunded areas, allowing better access to medical technology.

Fossil jaw found on Welsh beach helped scientists solve a nearly 200-year mystery

28/10/2026
A rare fossil jaw discovered on Lavernock Beach in Wales has solved a long-standing mystery. Researchers identified two distinct fish species from the Late Triassic period, which were previously misclassified. The fossil contained developing teeth and provided significant evidence regarding ancient marine life. This find contributes to understanding marine predators that inhabited the area over 200 million years ago.

California river restoration project attracts salmon within days of completion

27/10/2026
A remarkable effort in California involved restoration crews who revitalized a section of the Lower Tuolumne River, focusing on creating vital salmon habitats and enriching local biodiversity. The project saw the introduction of over 24,000 cubic yards of gravel and 80 boulders, which collectively improved spawning conditions. Almost immediately after the work was completed, salmon flocked to the newly established habitats, showcasing the project's success.

MIT students tackle lunar waste with recycling system

27/10/2026
MIT students have pioneered a revolutionary recycling solution aimed at mitigating waste buildup on the Moon. As new supplies begin to arrive, it is vital to have efficient methods for dealing with packaging waste. This ambitious project, which has garnered accolades from NASA, seeks to transform waste into useful materials for lunar bases, setting a precedent for potential sustainability improvements both on the Moon and Earth.

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