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: 2 hours 21 min ago

MIT researchers folded flat aluminium panels into a room-sized, load-bearing structure without interior columns; lab simulations showed greater stiffness while using roughly two-thirds as much material

29/10/2026
Engineers at MIT have created a new construction method inspired by origami, utilizing folded aluminium sheets. This technique allows for the design of lightweight, rigid structures that bear loads efficiently without internal support. Researchers have demonstrated this approach with a large sculpture displayed in a public library atrium. The method could revolutionize construction by simplifying assembly and reducing material use.

Hundreds of wildflowers planted in Norfolk to support bees and butterflies

29/10/2026
At the Fairstead Recreation Ground in West Norfolk, an exciting initiative unfolded as hundreds of native wildflower plugs were planted by dedicated council staff and enthusiastic volunteers. This project is a vital step in enhancing biodiversity, contributing to the restoration of local wildlife habitats. Previous methods, such as spreading green hay to introduce native seeds, laid the foundation for this flourishing ecosystem, with ongoing monitoring ensuring the area achieves sustainability.

Diver searching the bottom of England’s River Wear has pulled a huge three legged iron cauldron

29/10/2026
An ancient iron cauldron, potentially from the medieval or Iron Age, was found submerged under water. Underwater archaeologist Gary Bankhead led a team of divers in this ambitious recovery mission. Experts are currently investigating the cauldron's design and historical relevance. This intriguing find prompts speculation about its origin and journey into the river, with plans underway for a public exhibition at a nearby museum.

Warming cuts grassland soil carbon by 12.2% during drought, study finds

29/10/2026
A 12-year field experiment conducted at the University of Oklahoma examined soil carbon responses to warming. Researchers found that soil carbon loss occurred during drought conditions, while gains were observed under wet conditions. Microbial activity played a significant role in these contrasting responses, with increased rates during drought and suppressed activity during wet spells. The study highlighted the need for long-term research to understand soil carbon dynamics accurately.

The UK plans to send giant robotic claws into orbit to grab two dead satellites; 2029 mission

29/10/2026
In a groundbreaking initiative, the UK plans to unveil a pioneering spacecraft in 2029, designed specifically for the cleanup of space debris. Utilizing advanced robotic arms, the mission aims to snatch up and incinerate inactive satellites, tackling the escalating issue of orbital pollution that threatens current satellite operations. A nationwide competition to name the spacecraft is in progress, underscoring the project's significance in fostering sustainable space practices.

In 2012 and 2013, Maine removed two old Penobscot River dams to restore migratory routes; by September 2026, the Milford fish lift had counted a preliminary 5.85 million river herring returning upstream

29/10/2026
In a significant ecological feat, the Penobscot River restoration in Maine has revitalized migratory fish numbers dramatically. The removal of the Great Works and Veazie dams has paved the way for essential fish migration pathways once again. As a result, the population of river herring has surged from just 556 to over 5 million.

A community in South Australia’s first dark-sky reserve is opposing a proposed hyperscale data centre; residents fear the development could change the rural landscape and threaten the darkness that draws visitors

29/10/2026
Residents of Tungkillo, South Australia, are concerned about a proposed data centre that could disrupt their dark-sky reserve. The development may introduce light and noise pollution that affects the rural landscape. Community members believe preserving their unique nighttime environment is crucial for stargazing and natural experiences. The project's economic benefits are being weighed against potential environmental impacts. Ongoing discussions will determine the future of digital infrastructure in the region.

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.

Pages