Science Alert
Catch up on the latest science news, from space and technology to life and environmental research- all the discoveries shaping our world today.
Updated: 2 hours 20 min ago
Buffalo scientists developed a low-cost cooler in 2019, achieving 6°C by day and 11°C at night
Innovative scientists have created a groundbreaking cooling system that operates without electricity, utilizing a unique film. This advanced radiative cooling technology efficiently dissipates heat from its surroundings into outer space. Field tests revealed a consistent cooling range of two to nine degrees Celsius. The cost-effective film can be produced on a large scale for building applications, aiming to significantly lessen reliance on air conditioning.
Scientists use AI to recreate insect calls from Jurassic; some communicated above human hearing
Scientists have recreated the calls of nine Jurassic insect species that lived 165 million years ago. Using fossilised wings, laser measurements, computer modelling and AI, researchers found that some insects made clear chirping sounds, while one species may have produced ultrasonic calls above the human hearing range.
Mars winter turns carbon dioxide into snow and ice, cycling 25% of its atmosphere
Mars' winter atmosphere transforms as carbon dioxide freezes onto polar regions. These seasonal caps hold a substantial portion of the planet's atmosphere. Roughly a quarter of Mars' atmosphere cycles through these caps annually. This process powerfully influences atmospheric circulation across the entire planet. Scientists study these caps to understand Martian atmospheric and surface interactions.
Devil Flower Species Found: Fungi-fed Thai plant stuns botanists; fewer than 50 exist
In a remarkable botanical find, scientists have discovered Thismia daemona, a unique flowering plant in Thailand's Thong Pha Phum National Park. This intriguing species, devoid of leaves and green structures, primarily derives its nourishment from subterranean fungi. Its eerie, horn-like form has earned it the moniker 'devil flower' among researchers, marking a significant discovery in the study of this rare plant group.
A pigeon with a ‘bleeding heart’ has returned after 20 years in Philippines, but its comeback may not be good news
In a stunning turn of events, a Mindoro bleeding-heart pigeon, a critically endangered species, has been photographed for the first time in twenty years. This sighting, occurring in the vibrant Puerto Galera rainforest on Mindoro island, confirms the species still thrives in its natural habitat. The joint efforts of indigenous patrollers and conservationists highlight the importance of protecting the fragile ecosystem that supports this rare bird.
In 1989, Detroit Zoo began saving lost snails; 37 years later, 500 head 5,000 miles to Tahiti
Hundreds of tiny snails are journeying over 5,000 miles from Michigan to Tahiti. This release is part of a long-running international conservation program for endangered native snails. Invasive predators had caused severe population collapses for these unique mollusks in their native islands. The Detroit Zoo has been breeding and caring for these snails since 1989. This ongoing effort has successfully returned over 17,000 snails to their natural habitat.
Meet Lilah Mehta, the Connecticut high-school student who entered a Yale lab at 16
In a groundbreaking achievement, high school student Lilah Mehta has co-authored a significant neuroscience study, diving deep into the world of biological inquiries. Her research, which centered on ion channels potentially related to neurodegenerative diseases, led to a peer-reviewed publication. Overcoming laboratory challenges and grasping complex molecular principles, Mehta has firmly established her passion for both medicine and environmental science.
Gold miners breached 14 hectares of Indonesia's orangutan refuge in three years; conservationists want government to intervene
The Jantho forest reservation in Indonesia, vital for orangutan rehabilitation, is under siege from illegal gold miners. This encroachment places the habitat of critically endangered Sumatran orangutans, rescued from illegal trade, at severe risk. Mining activities have already destroyed approximately fourteen hectares, while toxic runoff threatens the surrounding Krueng Aceh River, endangering both community health and wildlife.
12-year-old turns Lego robotics kit into a low-cost working Braille printer
Shubham Banerjee developed a Braille printer using a Lego robotics kit. He aimed to make Braille printing more affordable for visually impaired individuals. After several attempts, he created a working prototype named Braigo. Banerjee shared the design and software as open source for wider accessibility. This project transformed a school experiment into a plan for cheaper Braille embossers.
In 2021, Nasa grew Hatch chile peppers in microgravity, producing 26 peppers in 137 days
Nasa successfully grew Hatch chile peppers aboard the International Space Station for the first time. The experiment tested growing fruiting crops in orbit, which is vital for future space missions. These space-grown peppers showed distinct differences in stem structure and development time compared to Earth. Astronauts enjoyed the fresh peppers, incorporating them into meals and providing valuable feedback.
Communities marry glaciers in Gilgit-Baltistan to create new ice reserves amid climate change
Communities in Gilgit-Baltistan are reviving glacier grafting to address water scarcity. This ancient practice involves creating artificial glaciers by carefully combining ice pieces. The process requires specific high-altitude conditions and meticulous transport to prevent melting. Local people believe water is a sentient being and must be cared for. This tradition offers a sustainable solution for future water needs.
Cockroach milk crystals pack dense nutrients, earn scientists Ig Nobel Prize
Pacific beetle cockroaches have an extraordinary ability to produce a milk-like substance for their young, which crystallizes into nutrient-dense forms within the developing embryos. This innovative discovery, highlighted by the 2026 Ig Nobel Prize in Chemistry awarded to the research team, showcases how unconventional studies can lead to astonishing scientific revelations.
Harvard scientists keep brain organoids alive for over five years, mimicking brain development
Harvard neuroscientists have kept human brain organoids alive for over five years. These organoids matured and followed molecular patterns of human brain development. Older cells retained developmental information, allowing them to skip ahead in neuron production. Improved culture conditions and nutrient supplements supported the organoids' extended survival. This breakthrough offers new avenues for studying brain biology and disease progression.
