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: 9 min 38 sec ago
New research using Nasa’s InSight seismic waves reveals Mars has a solid inner core
New research from NASA's InSight lander, which recorded over 1,300 Marsquakes between 2018 and 2022, suggests Mars possesses a solid inner core, approximately 600 kilometers in radius, surrounded by a liquid outer core. This discovery challenges previous assumptions of a fully liquid core and could reshape our understanding of Mars' past magnetic field and planetary evolution.
Deep under the Indian Ocean lies a gravity mystery unlike anywhere else on Earth
The Indian Ocean Geoid Low (IOGL), a significant gravitational anomaly, has puzzled scientists for decades. Research suggests it formed due to interactions between tectonic plates and mantle plumes over millions of years. This depression in Earth's geoid provides insights into the planet's interior dynamics, mass distribution, and geological history, influencing sea levels and satellite trajectories.
NASA Perseverance rover discovers turtle-shaped rock on Mars highlighting strange Martian landscapes
NASA's Perseverance rover has captured an image of a turtle-shaped rock formation in Mars' Jezero Crater, sparking fascination and scientific inquiry. The unique formation, likely sculpted by erosion and mineral deposition, highlights Mars' dynamic geological history. Perseverance's ongoing exploration continues to reveal quirky, Earth-resembling features, deepening our understanding of the Red Planet's past and potential habitability.
NASA shows how the universe was discovered and the rise of other galaxies
In 1925, Edwin Hubble's observation of Cepheid variables in the Andromeda galaxy revolutionized astronomy, proving the existence of galaxies beyond the Milky Way. This discovery, aided by telescopes like the Hooker and Hubble, transformed our understanding of the cosmos, leading to modern cosmology and inspiring research into cosmic expansion and galaxy formation.
Spaceflight increases aging: NASA study finds blood-forming stem cells at risk
A NASA-funded study reveals that space travel may accelerate aging by impacting blood-forming stem cells. Analysis of stem cells from International Space Station missions showed reduced regenerative capacity, DNA damage, and accelerated aging. These findings highlight potential risks to astronauts' long-term health, including compromised immunity and tissue repair, emphasizing the need for protective strategies.
Scientists stunned by discovery of three never-before-seen snailfish in the Pacific Ocean
In a significant marine discovery, researchers have identified a new deep-sea snailfish species, the bumpy snailfish (Careproctus colliculi), in Monterey Canyon. This pink-hued fish, with its distinctive textured skin, was found at a depth of over 3,268 meters. The discovery, aided by MBARI's advanced technology, highlights the importance of deep-sea biodiversity research.
Milky Way lights up as the blood moon rises during a total lunar eclipse
On September 7-8, 2025, a total lunar eclipse transformed the night sky, revealing a stunning blood moon and the Milky Way's brilliance. Observers across Asia, Africa, Australia, and Europe witnessed rare lights like zodiacal glow and airglow. This celestial event provided astronomers and skywatchers a unique opportunity to study and appreciate the universe's hidden wonders.
Is there life on Mars? NASA to reveal major evidence from groundbreaking Mars findings
NASA will reveal new findings from the Perseverance rover on September 10, 2025. The focus is on the 'Sapphire Canyon' rock sample from Jezero Crater. Scientists are intrigued by chemical patterns and organic molecules. These could indicate ancient biological processes. The discovery strengthens the case for past microbial life on Mars.
Sunita Williams’ childhood dream was far from rockets and spacewalks; here’s what she dreamed of becoming and why
Sunita Williams, globally recognized for her space missions, initially aspired to be a veterinarian. Inspired by her brother's Naval Academy experience and the movie 'Top Gun,' she joined the US Navy and became a helicopter pilot. Later, NASA selected her as an astronaut.
Humans can’t live beyond 150 years: Scientists expose the harsh reality
Research indicates a potential human lifespan limit between 120 and 150 years, regardless of lifestyle. A study in Nature Communications reveals that the body's resilience declines with age, impacting recovery from illnesses. Analyzing blood cell counts and physical activity, scientists found a point where the body can no longer fully recover, suggesting a biological ceiling on longevity.
NASA warns! 100-foot asteroid 2025 QV9 racing towards Earth at over 10,000 mph on September 10; should we be concerned
NASA confirms that asteroid 2025 QV9 will fly by Earth on September 10. The asteroid is airplane-sized and travels at high speed. It will pass at a safe distance, about five times the Moon's distance. Scientists monitor such near-Earth objects. Agencies like NASA, ESA, JAXA and ISRO are tracking asteroids. ISRO plans to study asteroids like Apophis.
NASA chief Sean Duffy draws unexpected parallels: ‘Space economy is like the iPhone’ — Here’s why
NASA's acting administrator, Sean Duffy, likened the burgeoning space economy to the early days of the iPhone, suggesting its transformative potential is still unfolding. Speaking on NASA's podcast, Duffy highlighted that investments in lunar missions and private space ventures could reshape society unpredictably.
NASA James Webb Telescope reveals promising signs of a distant Earthlike atmosphere similar to ours
The James Webb Space Telescope cannot observe Earth directly. It is too bright and could damage the telescope. However, studying Earth's potential appearance to Webb helps scientists. It refines methods for analyzing exoplanets. Earth's atmospheric fingerprint serves as a benchmark. Scientists compare it to other worlds. This identifies planets with habitable conditions.
Earth in danger! 60% of global land now beyond safe ecological limits, scientists warn
A recent study reveals that human activities have pushed 60% of Earth's land outside the safe operating zone, threatening ecosystems. Deforestation, agriculture, and industrial expansion have disrupted carbon, water, and nitrogen cycles, particularly in Europe, Asia, and North America. Scientists urge immediate global action to protect natural systems and prevent irreversible damage to food security, water supplies, and the climate.