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: 1 hour 54 min ago
Black Hole Blast Shapes Structure: Astronomers trace ‘Treble Clef’ origins; collision revives radio glow
Astronomers have uncovered that the peculiar Treble Clef formation stems from a black hole eruption and the merger of two galaxy clusters. Observations from a variety of telescopes across different wavelengths revealed that the explosive event launched particles, which were later re-energized through the cluster collision. This groundbreaking research enhances our understanding of how cosmic phenomena can fundamentally alter the structures within the universe.
Could Einstein’s equations explain the universe’s expansion?
Researchers from UC Davis have proposed that dark energy may not be necessary to explain the universe's acceleration. They found weak points in the Lambda-cold dark matter model using Einstein's equations. By examining instabilities in Friedmann spacetimes, they suggest alternative explanations for cosmic expansion. Their work raises questions about the Copernican principle in the context of current models. This research could lead to significant shifts in our understanding of cosmology.
Scientists have developed a new technology that could make electric car batteries smaller, lighter and longer-lasting, potentially letting drivers travel farther on a single charge without carrying a heavier battery
Scientists from the Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology developed a new technology for anode-free batteries. This innovative approach focuses on enhancing lithium deposition to improve battery efficiency and longevity. By restructuring the copper surface for lithium storage, they have addressed issues with dendrite formation. Applying a thin layer of MXene further stabilizes the battery's performance.
A Neanderthal who died 75,000 years ago may have been killed by a wooden spear deliberately aimed at his heart, scientists say, offering rare evidence of targeted violence among our closest ancient relatives
A recent archaeological find in Shanidar Cave revealed a Neanderthal skeleton showing signs of lethal violence, potentially from a wooden spear, suggesting that early human emotional responses might mirror those of today. The evidence hints at both a targeted attack and social care, as the skeleton bore previous injuries. This discovery serves as a window into the dualities of early human life, showcasing their capacity for both violence and compassion.
Florida has allocated $3 million to acquire a 642-acre property along the Suwannee River; officials say ending its current land use could save 159,000 gallons of water daily and reduce nutrient inputs
Florida has allocated $3 million for the acquisition of property along the Suwannee River to reduce water consumption. The Suwannee Sandhill Tract-Drew Property will help conserve approximately 158,800 gallons of water daily. This initiative is part of a larger $100 million investment aimed at various water conservation projects. The acquisition will facilitate the restoration of the land for wildlife habitats and public recreation.
A Chester Zoo collection of Dracula orchids has been declared nationally important, drawing attention to rare flowers with bizarre, vampire-like appearances that are increasingly threatened in the wild.
Chester Zoo recently received National Plant Collection status for its impressive collection of Dracula orchids. These unique flowers, which mimic various shapes, face threats from habitat loss and illegal collection. Pollination occurs through specific fungi-attracting smells rather than traditional scents. Chester Zoo's horticulturists are dedicated to preserving these rare species amidst growing environmental challenges. Currently, the orchids are not on public display but contribute to plant biodiversity conservation efforts.
Florida is planning 4,800 acres of wetlands at the mouth of the Kissimmee River to remove phosphorus before it reaches Lake Okeechobee, decades after engineers began undoing the river's earlier straightening
Florida is planning a 4,800-acre wetland project to filter phosphorus pollution before it reaches Lake Okeechobee. This initiative involves directing stormwater through treatment areas filled with aquatic vegetation. Wetlands help mitigate impacts of excess nutrients and support local ecosystems. The project has been under development since 2019 and will provide flood protection and recreational opportunities. A public meeting is scheduled for November 2026 to discuss construction details.
A cupboard buried when Mount Vesuvius destroyed Pompeii in AD 79 has yielded 38 bronze coins and at least 24 tiny childhood charms; archaeologists say the objects reveal glimpses of a family's lost everyday life
Italian archaeologists recently uncovered a sealed wooden cupboard in Pompeii, revealing artifacts from 2,000 years ago. Among the findings were 38 bronze coins, personal care items, and a unique childhood necklace. The discovery adds to our understanding of daily life in ancient Rome, highlighting ordinary people's lives. It is speculated that the residents could not retrieve their belongings during the volcanic eruption.
US river straightened 110 years ago to drain land, now set for restoration to reduce floods
Authorities in Tennessee, US, have acquired 985 acres along the South Fork of the Forked Deer River to reduce flooding and restore natural habitats. The river was straightened in 1916 to drain surrounding land, but the changes contributed to flash floods and erosion. The restoration project aims to reconnect the river with its floodplain and eventually open the area to the public.
A new fossil from China may reveal the first amphibian known to have lived entirely at sea; the armoured, 2.4-foot creature lived about 237 million years ago, challenging what scientists know about amphibian evolution
A recent discovery of the fossil Gerrothorax maritimus reveals that some ancient amphibians lived completely in marine environments. Dated to approximately 237 million years ago, this species had a flattened body covered in bony armour. The fossils were found in deep-sea sediments, indicating they lived far from landmasses. Geochemical tests confirmed the strontium isotopes matched those in seawater during the Late Triassic period.
NASA-funded study reveals 4.1-billion-year-old history of pink Martian rock found in Sahara
Discovered in the vast Sahara Desert, the meteorite Teghaza 001 is over four billion years old and is confirmed to be a Martian rock via isotopic studies. This intriguing specimen reveals a volcanic history intertwined with water activity, indicating a complex water cycle on Mars. As researchers delve deeper into its origins, they are unraveling vital insights into the planet's early environmental conditions.
Puerto Rico plans coral restoration with 9,600 sea urchins and 600 crabs
Puerto Rico is undertaking a significant coral reef restoration project to revitalize its marine ecosystems. The initiative is a collaboration of the Institute for Socio-Ecological Research and other local and international organizations. Restoration efforts include planting 124,000 coral fragments along with reintroducing herbivorous sea urchins and crabs to manage algae. Land-based nurseries will support the necessary growth of these marine organisms.
In 1901,sponge divers off the Greek island of Antikythera recovered a gear from 2,000 years ago
In 1900, a remarkable discovery was made when divers stumbled upon the Antikythera Mechanism amidst a shipwreck in the Mediterranean Sea. This ancient artifact showcased astounding knowledge of astronomy and mechanical engineering dating back over 2,000 years. Researchers found it capable of calculating astronomical cycles and predicting eclipses, intertwining science with the cultural tapestry of ancient Greece.
Invasive Burmese pythons and Florida’s native snakes show different parasite infection rates
Researchers investigated the prevalence and types of parasites affecting Burmese pythons and native snakes in South Florida. They found that invasive pythons showed lower overall pentastome prevalence than native snake species. Different native snakes displayed varying rates of infection by specific parasites like Raillietiella orientalis and Porocephalus. The study also revealed that Burmese pythons lacked platyhelminths typically found in native snakes.
In the 1960s, scientists studying the venom of Brazilian pit viper found a compound lowered BP
The Brazilian pit viper, Bothrops jararaca, has been a focal point in research leading to significant medical breakthroughs. In the 1960s, Sergio Ferreira uncovered a peptide from this snake that plays a crucial role in blood pressure regulation. This groundbreaking discovery eventually paved the way for captopril, the pioneering ACE inhibitor approved in 1981, which has transformed the treatment landscape for hypertension and heart ailments.
1300 BC: Spain's copper mine linked to 11 Scandinavian bronze objects, hinting at ancient networks
Excavations at the Las Minillas site in Spain have unveiled substantial copper mining activities dating back to the Late Bronze Age. Investigations revealed a chemical link between the site and bronze artifacts discovered in Scandinavia. Researchers noted extensive mining operations and identified numerous nearby mining locations, indicating that southern Iberia was crucial for copper supply in Europe during this period.
