Science Alert

Subscribe to Science Alert feed 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: 51 min 33 sec ago

Scientists turned plastic waste into clean hydrogen fuel without expensive sorting and it could revolutionise recycling forever

20/07/2026
New research offers a method to convert mixed plastic waste into clean hydrogen fuel. The innovative technique allows for the processing of various plastic types together without sorting. This breakthrough could turn discarded plastic into a valuable energy source for homes. The development supports a circular economy and reduces environmental pollution effectively.

Meet Laika: The Moscow stray dog who became the first animal to orbit Earth in 1957, but was never meant to come home

20/07/2026
Laika, a stray dog, became the first living creature in Earth orbit aboard Sputnik 2. The spacecraft was built in haste and lacked any return system for the animal. Soviet officials initially claimed Laika survived for days before a peaceful death. However, a scientist later revealed she died within hours due to system failure. This mission accelerated American efforts to develop a human space program.

World’s largest oceanic plateau still hides ancient magma pathways after 100 million years

20/07/2026
Scientists uncovered ancient magma pathways beneath the Ontong Java Plateau. These hidden dike swarms reveal how enormous magma volumes traveled through the lithosphere. Seismic waves passing through the plateau showed unusual behavior. This behavior indicated a hybrid internal structure with vertical dike-like formations. These preserved dike swarms permanently reshaped the surrounding rocks over geological time.

Scientists find toxins from Florida's toxic algae blooms travel through air, raise risk of ALS

20/07/2026
Recent research reveals the presence of cyanobacterial toxins in the air of Southwest Florida, matching those found in dolphins displaying Alzheimer's characteristics. This airborne contamination indicates that inhabitants may be exposed to lower concentrations of these toxins, which are believed to heighten the chances of ALS and various ailments. Unlike food-related toxins, mitigating exposure through breath poses a significant and complex challenge.

Biohacker Bryan Johnson claims ice packs boost male fertility: Does science agree?

20/07/2026
Bryan Johnson, a longevity influencer, claims that icing his testicles greatly increases his sperm count. His unique approach has inspired several Redditors to experiment with this method for improving fertility. Although some research hints at the benefits of mild scrotal cooling for male fertility, experts caution that there is insufficient evidence to suggest significant improvements in testosterone or overall sperm production.

Debris of asteroid shattered 800 million yrs ago may have bombarded Earth for 150 million yrs

20/07/2026
A new study suggests that a giant asteroid breakup in the main asteroid belt about 800 million years ago may have triggered a long period of impacts across Earth, the Moon and Mars. Researchers linked the event to the Eulalia asteroid family and say it could explain ancient lunar craters. While the impacts coincided with major climate and biological changes on Earth, the study does not prove they caused them.

Big Bear Eagles need $10 million to protect their habitat before July 31

20/07/2026
Thousands of people around the world are watching bald eagles Jackie and Shadow raise their two eaglets through a live nest camera in California's Big Bear Valley. As the chicks continue to grow, conservationists are also racing to raise $10 million to protect the surrounding habitat from development, highlighting the importance of preserving the forests and open spaces the eagles need to survive.

Quote of the day by Pythagoras: "As long as Man continues to be the ruthless destroyer of lower living beings, he will never…" - a powerful warning about cruelty to animals, humanity's relationship with nature and the search for a healthier world

20/07/2026
Pythagoras' ancient quote links human peace to the treatment of animals. He argued that cruelty to lower beings diminishes societal well-being. This perspective suggests violence toward animals can foster broader societal aggression. Modern health concepts also encompass environmental well-being and ecological balance. The enduring challenge questions peace alongside routine, unnecessary animal cruelty.

Scientists studied found flies rebuild their biological clock into a separate seasonal mode

19/07/2026
In a fascinating discovery, scientists have found that fruit flies adapt their internal biological clocks to survive winter by employing a genetic mechanism known as the winter lock. This adaptation allows them to remain inactive until warmer weather arrives, showcasing a seasonal shift in their molecular structure. These insights not only open avenues for innovative pest control strategies but also enhance our understanding of seasonal variations in human health issues.

Mediterranean seagrass survives in dim seabed light by expanding its photosynthetic antenna

19/07/2026
Scientists have discovered how the Mediterranean seagrass Posidonia oceanicahas adapted its photosynthetic system to survive in the dim, blue-green light of the seabed. The plant captures more light while moving energy more efficiently by altering its photosynthetic machinery. Researchers say the findings could help develop crop plants that make better use of limited sunlight under dense canopies.

Pages