Published research, space, climate, and the institutions funding all of it. We favour findings that have cleared peer review over press releases announcing breakthroughs.
Scientists from the University of Graz, Lincoln, Bristol, Beijing, and Tempe have used fossils from Inner Mongolia to recreate the chirps of nine Jurassic grasshopper species. The study, published in the journal PNAS, analyzed the wing‑ridge structures that produced stridulations, allowing researchers to estimate the pitch and rhythm of the insects' calls. By combining fossil morphology with AI‑assisted simulations, the team generated audio files that show frequencies ranging from low, cricket‑like tones to high, leafhopper‑like sounds. Remarkably, one species, Sigmaboilus peregrinus, produced ultrasonic calls between 20 and 22 kilohertz - well above human hearing and predating the first known bats. This finding challenges the idea that high‑frequency insect sounds evolved solely to evade bat predation and suggests alternative drivers such as predator avoidance or mating strategies. The reconstruction demonstrates that the Jurassic period had a far richer and more diverse acoustic landscape than previously understood. The work also marks the oldest known reproduction of animal sound, providing a new window into prehistoric ecosystems.
A new report from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) suggests that the global community is likely to breach the 1.5C warming threshold established by the Paris Agreement within the next few years. While sustained warming is currently estimated at 1.4C, the UNEP Limiting Overshoot report indicates that crossing this critical limit is becoming unavoidable.
The findings describe an overshoot, peak, and decline pathway. Under this model, temperatures would rise above the 1.5C mark before peaking and eventually falling if humanity successfully achieves net-zero emissions and utilizes carbon removal technologies. The report highlights a stark contrast between potential outcomes: ambitious climate action could limit peak warming to 1.8C by mid-century, whereas current policies place the world on a trajectory toward 2.6C of warming by 2100.
Experts emphasize that breaching the threshold is not a point of no return. Scientists note that every fraction of a degree avoided reduces the scale of environmental damage, such as the loss of ice sheets and biodiversity. However, the report warns that carbon removal cannot replace the urgent need for deep emissions cuts, as some damage from an overshoot may be irreversible.
Scientists Catherine Hobaiter and Nathaniel Jay Dominy propose that the flickering glow of campfires helped humans shift from gesture-based communication to spoken language. Their study, published in Proceedings of the Royal Society B, measured firelight and found that the light was bright enough to make hand gestures visible yet flickered at 1.4 to 2.7 hertz, a rhythm that matches brain patterns linked to attention and memory. The researchers argue that the constant motion of flames made gesture interpretation difficult, encouraging the use of clearer verbal signals that could be heard over the crackle. Additionally, the blue light emitted by fire lowered melatonin levels, extending social time by up to four hours without significantly disrupting sleep. While the hypothesis remains largely untested, the authors suggest future experiments to examine whether storytelling rhythms align with fire flicker and whether listeners’ brains synchronize with speakers under flickering light. The paper frames fire as a catalyst for storytelling, a key human trait that fosters connection and creativity, and questions whether modern efficiency may have displaced this ancestral practice. If the link holds, it would underscore the importance of shared narratives in human evolution and hint at ways to revive communal storytelling in an increasingly automated world.
The United Nations Environment Programme released a first‑of‑its‑kind report stating that the planet will surpass the 1.5°C temperature ceiling agreed to in the 2015 Paris Accord within the next few years. The study projects an “overshoot” trajectory, with global temperatures peaking at about 1.8°C around mid‑century before gradually cooling below the 1.5°C mark by the end of the century. To achieve this cooling, the report calls for a rapid phase‑out of fossil fuels and the deployment of large‑scale carbon‑removal technologies that go beyond conventional tree planting. It warns that the overshoot period could last many decades, amplifying climate disasters, food shortages, and species loss, especially for vulnerable populations. The analysis stresses that limiting the peak temperature and shortening the time spent above 1.5°C are critical to reducing long‑term harm. The report also highlights the need for stronger adaptation measures, as some impacts are unavoidable. The UN’s findings underscore the urgency of decisive action to prevent the worst outcomes of climate change.
Scientists and aviation authorities have launched Operation Blue Skies, a £5 million trial that uses artificial intelligence to reduce the climate impact of contrails. The programme will test AI‑guided altitude adjustments for commercial flights over the busy Shanwick airspace, which handles roughly 500,000 flights a year and accounts for about 5 % of global contrail emissions. By nudging aircraft into regions where contrail formation is unlikely, the system aims to cut contrail‑related warming by a significant margin. Earlier work by American Airlines showed that a controlled avoidance plan could lower contrail production by two‑thirds, but only 15 % of such routes were adopted without incentives. Operation Blue Skies will run this winter and next, offering a chance to evaluate both the environmental benefits and the human factors involved in getting airlines to comply. If successful, the approach could become a cost‑effective tool for airlines and regulators to meet climate targets. The trial will also provide data on how AI can optimise flight paths for minimal environmental impact.
HHMI’s Tangled Bank Studios has unveiled a trailer for the second season of its science‑focused field‑trip series, promising viewers a behind‑the‑scenes look at cutting‑edge research labs. The teaser invites audiences to join the hosts on a week‑long journey through various laboratories, highlighting experiments that could have significant future implications. Production partners emphasize hands‑on experiences that showcase the day‑to‑day work of scientists. Viewers can expect the first episode to air tomorrow, kicking off the new season.
Fields Medalist Martin Hyer praises China's advancements in basic science, citing increased government support and a growing number of young Chinese researchers. Hyer attributes the progress to the Chinese government's long-term commitment to science and technology, providing stability and resources for researchers.
Researchers have extracted and analyzed over 75,000 genetic markers from human remains in Tamil Nadu, revealing deep genetic connections between ancient Tamil settlements and present-day South Asian populations. The study provides new insights into the Sangam era civilization and its people.
A study reveals that offering cash incentives to people living in and around rainforests can effectively reduce deforestation. This approach has been successful in Brazil, where the government has implemented policies to promote sustainable land use. However, experts warn that the world is still facing a significant threat from deforestation, with primary forests disappearing at an alarming rate. If more than 22% of forest cover is lost, the Amazon rainforest may cross a tipping point, leading to a shift from a wet to a dry ecosystem.
Scientists are concerned about the potential effects of the current El Niño event, which is expected to be one of the largest in recent history. The phenomenon is linked to climate change and could lead to increased extreme weather events, including wildfires, flooding, and droughts. The economic toll of El Niño is difficult to predict, but past events have caused significant damage, with losses estimated in the trillions of dollars. The event's impact on global food security and agricultural production is also a concern, with potential effects on supply chains and energy prices.
A catastrophic release of carbon dioxide from Lake Nyos in Cameroon killed over 1,800 people and thousands of animals in 1986. Scientists attribute the tragedy to a volcanic lake's unique geology, which allowed the gas to build up and escape suddenly. The disaster led to a major international conference to study the event and prevent similar tragedies.
A total solar eclipse is a rare and awe-inspiring event that reminds us of our shared place in the universe. Dr. Jan Leven, a professor of physics and astronomy, hopes that the 2026 eclipse will bring people together and give us a moment to pause and reflect on our collective humanity. The eclipse is a unique opportunity to observe the celestial clockwork of the solar system and witness the moon's alignment with the sun and earth. Dr. Leven suggests that the best places to view the eclipse are in Iceland and Morca, where the totality will last the longest. The eclipse coincides with a famous meteor shower, making the night viewing event even more special.
A new report from the European Environmental Agency warns that droughts and water scarcity are becoming more frequent and intense across the continent. Rising temperatures are drying out soils and shrinking rivers, putting pressure on Europe's water resources. The EU has launched a European Water Resilience Strategy to improve water efficiency and address the issue.
Exxon's emissions have led to a prolonged heatwave in the UK, with temperatures predicted to reach 38° C and over two-thirds of England experiencing drought. The company's scientists knew about the environmental effects of their products since the 1970s but publicly denied climate change, delaying action.
Japan's H3 rocket has achieved a second consecutive successful launch, carrying the Michibiki No. 7 positioning satellite into space. The satellite is part of Japan's Quasi-Zenith Satellite System, providing location information for smartphones and vehicle navigation. Initial launch plans were delayed due to weather conditions. This launch marks a significant milestone for Japan's space agency.
A long-term trend of Earth's decreasing reflectivity, or albido, has been observed, leading to increased energy absorption and a widening energy imbalance. This imbalance is driving climate change, with some scientists predicting a 10-30% increase in warming in the coming years.
The UK's summers are particularly harsh due to climate change, with high humidity and heatwaves causing physical and mental health issues. The country's lack of adaptation to these changing temperatures is a major concern, with its infrastructure and societal habits not prepared to handle the heat. Heat-related illnesses, such as cardiovascular problems and heat strokes, are on the rise, particularly among the vulnerable populations. The UK's response to heat health warnings has been dismal, with many taking no action. Mental health is also affected, with heatwaves worsening side effects of psychiatric medications and increasing the risk of suicide.
Mosquitoes are spreading diseases like malaria and dengue fever due to climate change, which is creating new breeding grounds for the insects. This could put billions more people at risk. However, there are ways to protect against disease, including vaccines and mosquito nets.
The Earth's energy imbalance has reached a record level due to increased greenhouse gas emissions and decreased aerosol pollution. This warming trend is expected to continue unless humans can reduce their carbon footprint to net zero. The Earth's natural processes can remove some greenhouse gases, but at a temperature that may be undesirable for humans.
Researchers have made a significant discovery about the proteins involved in hair loss, which could lead to new treatments for baldness. The study found that a protein called MCL-1 and a protein called p53 play a crucial role in regulating hair growth. Understanding the relationship between these proteins could help develop new treatments for hair loss and potentially even cancer. The researchers used mice to study the effects of removing the MCL-1 and p53 genes, and their findings suggest that a balance between these proteins is necessary for healthy hair growth.
Astronomers have detected a few unusual objects in our solar system, leading some to speculate about their extraterrestrial origin. However, experts suggest that these objects may simply be unfamiliar types of space rocks, highlighting the need for further exploration and understanding of our solar system.
The Parker Solar Probe, launched by NASA, is the first spacecraft to visit the sun. The mission aims to study the sun's corona and understand the solar wind. The probe has provided new insights into the sun's behavior and has helped scientists predict solar storms that can affect Earth's technology.
In the face of harsh environments and scarce resources, animals have developed remarkable adaptations to survive. From the Indian Ocean atoll, where millions of chicks learn to fly, to the Kalahari Desert, where arvarks dig for termites, and the tropical shores of Brazil, where crabs risk life and limb to feed, these stories showcase the incredible diversity of wildlife and their struggles to thrive.
In the rainforests of Borneo and Ecuador, scientists have discovered insects with extraordinary abilities, including camouflage, acid defense, and piercing mouthparts. These insects have evolved unique strategies to survive and thrive in their environments.
Scientists are exploring the complex relationship between touch, pain, and pleasure. Researchers are studying the skin-brain axis to understand how our sense of touch is processed and how it can lead to both pain and pleasure. This research has implications for our understanding of human experience and could potentially lead to new treatments for pain and other conditions.
Scientists have discovered evidence that the Earth's core and mantle may be interacting, challenging previous assumptions about the planet's interior. Researchers found that two massive regions at the base of the mantle, known as large low shear velocity provinces (LLSVPs), have a large grain size and are likely ancient reservoirs that preserve material from the Earth's formation. The discovery of ruthenium in volcanic rocks suggests that material may be leaking from the core, rising through the LLSVPs.
During an expedition in Guyana, a team of researchers encountered a massive 5-meter anaconda, one of the largest snakes ever seen. They also discovered a unique fungal infection in a hawk moth that causes the animal to grow a deadly fungus. This bizarre discovery highlights the incredible diversity and complexity of the natural world.
Countries are improving their climate plans, showing higher ambition in reducing emissions and adapting to climate change. These plans are more inclusive, considering the perspectives of youth, women, and Indigenous peoples. They also link closely with development priorities and include key sectors of the economy. Climate plans are crucial development choices that will shape the growth of cities in a sustainable, resilient, and inclusive way.
NASA astronauts Jessica Meir and Anil Menon are preparing to embark on their first spacewalk together as part of Expedition 75. The spacewalk, designated as US spacewalk 96, aims to install a modification kit on the International Space Station to prepare it for the future installation of a roll-out solar array. This will be the 281st spacewalk in support of the International Space Station assembly and maintenance.
A team of researchers has finally solved the century-old mystery of why the Green River in Utah flows uphill. By analyzing the river's channel and surrounding land, they found that the river was once a gentle stream that flowed east but was later captured by a stream from the south. The land around the Uinta Mountains had shifted, causing the river to change course and flow uphill.
A film about the Odyssey features a scene where Greeks inside a Trojan horse drown due to tides. However, the Mediterranean Sea, where the story takes place, does not have significant tides. A geophysicist explains why this is the case, citing the narrow Strait of Gibraltar and the resulting lack of tidal movement.
Researchers have found evidence of ancient microbes under the ice at Blood Falls, a site in Antarctica known for its reddish color. The color is not caused by algae, but rather by rust. The discovery sheds new light on the history of life on Earth.
A team of scientists has discovered a new species of ancient human in the Philippines. The discovery was made in a cave system and provides new insights into human evolution. The species is believed to have lived around 50,000 years ago.
The smoke from wildfires in Europe poses a significant threat to public health, triggering asthma attacks and worsening existing health conditions. Climate change is a contributing factor to the increased frequency and severity of wildfires. Stopping the burning of fossil fuels can help limit warming and reduce the risk of wildfires.
A team of scientists has made a groundbreaking discovery in renewable energy technology, developing a new material that can harness and store energy more efficiently than ever before. The breakthrough, announced by the research team, has the potential to revolutionize the way we generate and use energy. The new material, which is still in the experimental phase, has shown remarkable efficiency in converting sunlight into electricity. While the technology is still in its early stages, experts believe it could have a significant impact on the global energy landscape. The researchers are optimistic about the potential of their discovery and are working to refine the technology.
Archaeologists have made a groundbreaking discovery in ancient human settlements, uncovering evidence of a previously unknown civilization in the Amazon rainforest. The discovery, announced by the research team, has shed new light on the history of human settlement in the region. The team found evidence of a sophisticated society that thrived in the area over 2,000 years ago. The discovery has significant implications for our understanding of human history and highlights the need for further research in the region. The researchers are optimistic about the potential of their discovery and are working to excavate the site further.
A recent study has found that climate change is affecting global food production, with some regions experiencing significant declines in crop yields. The study, conducted by a team of researchers, analyzed data from over 100 countries and found that rising temperatures and changing precipitation patterns are having a devastating impact on food security. In some areas, crop yields have decreased by as much as 20% due to drought and heat stress. The study's findings have significant implications for global food security and highlight the need for sustainable agricultural practices. The researchers are calling for immediate action to address the issue and mitigate the effects of climate change on food production.
Climate deniers are struggling to convince people that climate change is not real, leading to increasingly creative and misleading arguments. Recent headlines in the UK have downplayed the costs of climate action and blamed climate change on pollution reductions. However, experts say that burning fossil fuels and releasing greenhouse gases are the main causes of heat waves. Despite the challenges, many people are becoming more aware of the devastating consequences of climate change and are looking for ways to address it.
A US Senate hearing on big oil's climate disinformation tactics was derailed by Senator John Kennedy's sidetracking discussion with unrelated information about forest fires. The hearing was meant to discuss a 65-page report on oil companies' climate denial strategies, but Kennedy instead brought up the carbon emissions from boreal forest fires, citing incorrect statistics. Experts pointed out the inaccuracies and noted the irony of Kennedy using climate disinformation to avoid discussing the report.
Scientists have made a breakthrough in the field of quantum computing, developing a new method for processing complex calculations. This new method uses a combination of quantum bits and classical bits to process information, leading to significant improvements in processing speed. The implications of this discovery are vast, with potential applications in fields such as medicine and finance.
A recent study found that climate change is affecting global food production, leading to reduced crop yields and decreased food security. The study analyzed data from 1961 to 2019 and found that rising temperatures are causing crops to mature faster, leading to reduced yields. This has significant implications for global food security, particularly in vulnerable regions.
A new study has found that climate change is having a significant impact on global food supply. The study analyzed data from over 100 countries and found that rising temperatures are affecting crop yields and food availability. The study's findings suggest that climate change may lead to food shortages and increased food prices.
A new technology has been developed to help reduce plastic waste in oceans. The system uses artificial intelligence to identify and collect plastic debris from the ocean floor. The goal is to remove millions of tons of plastic waste from the ocean and protect marine life.
Scientists have discovered a new species of ancient human in the Philippines. The species, named Homo luzonensis, is believed to have lived on the island of Luzon over 50,000 years ago. The discovery provides new insights into human evolution and the history of human migration.
A new technology has been developed to help reduce plastic waste in oceans. The system uses artificial intelligence and machine learning to identify and collect plastic debris from the sea floor. This technology has the potential to significantly reduce the amount of plastic waste in our oceans, which is harming marine life and ecosystems. The system is being tested in several locations around the world and has shown promising results. If successful, this technology could be a game-changer in the fight against plastic pollution.