Science Alert

Latest news, top updates and current developments from the world of Health, Science and technology along with tips on physical & mental health and fitness.
Updated: 1 hour 44 min ago
Donald Trump offers to pay NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore’s overtime
NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore returned to Earth after a nine-month mission on the ISS. They won’t receive overtime pay despite the extended stay, prompting US President Donald Trump to express concern and offer personal compensation. Trump also thanked Elon Musk for their safe return. The astronauts will now undergo rehabilitation to readjust to Earth.
SSLV tech winners In 6 weeks, final RFP for EO constellation soon: Goenka
India's space promoter cum regulator IN-SPACe will announce the winner of the SSLV technology transfer in the next six weeks, as part of its strategy to engage the private sector. With multiple rockets anticipated to operate by mid-next year, India is enhancing its small satellite launch capabilities.
Elon Musk says SpaceX will send humans to Mars —can we survive the Red Planet’s harsh weather conditions?
Elon Musk aims to colonize Mars despite challenges such as its extreme climate, thin atmosphere, and lack of liquid water. The mission faces threats like dust storms, radiation exposure, and water scarcity. Advanced technology and innovative solutions will be crucial for human survival and maintaining a viable colony on the Red Planet.
Should we worry when whales stop singing? Here’s what researchers have to say
A study reveals that whales vocalise less during marine heatwaves to kill their prey, linking climate change to changes in whale behavior. Scientists found whale songs are essential for monitoring ecosystem health and changes in food availability, reflecting the impact of shifting prey populations and environmental conditions on whales' communication and feeding patterns.
Current antivirals may be less effective against severe infection caused by bird flu virus in cows' milk: Study
Existing antivirals may be less effective against this H5N1 bird flu strain, and prevention measures, such as avoiding raw milk consumption and reducing exposure in dairy workers, may be the most effective way to protect against the virus.
'He's a trooper': Astronaut Butch Wilmore's daughter on his return to gravity
Astronaut Barry Wilmore is readjusting to Earth's gravity after an unplanned nine-month space mission. He and fellow astronaut Sunita Williams landed in Florida, concluding an extended mission due to technical issues. Wilmore's daughter, Daryn, documented his journey on TikTok, expressing relief and pride on his return. Barry undergoes medical evaluations while reconnecting with family and enjoying his favorite activities.
Sunita Williams’ childhood dream was not be become an astronaut–here’s what she actually wanted to be
Sunita Williams' extraordinary career in space exploration includes setting records for the longest spacewalk by a woman and becoming the second-longest-serving female astronaut. Initially aspiring to be a veterinarian, a visit to her brother's naval academy redirected her to military aviation and NASA. Her missions include commanding the ISS and extensive scientific research, showcasing remarkable achievements.
What is dark energy? One of science's great mysteries, explained
Dark energy makes up roughly 70 percent of the universe, yet we know nothing about it. Around 25 percent of the universe is the equally mysterious dark matter, leaving just five percent for everything that we can see and touch -- matter made up of atoms.
New research suggests dark energy is fading. Could the universe reverse course?
Recent research from the dark energy spectroscopic instrument (Desi) team indicates that dark energy, which drives the universe's expansion, is weakening. This significant finding challenges the previous notion of dark energy as a constant force and suggests a possible reversal in universal expansion.
Getting ready for space war? 5 Chinese satellites spotted 'dogfighting'
The US Space Force highlighted that China is developing space combat capabilities, with five Chinese satellites executing synchronised movements likened to orbital dogfighting. Verification confirmed involvement of specific satellites, underscoring growing threats and the need for enhanced US defenses as the technological gap narrows.
Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore, NASA astronauts, carried on stretchers after their landing – find out why
NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore returned to Earth after a nine-month ISS mission. Arriving via SpaceX Dragon capsule, they were placed on stretchers as a safety measure. Extended microgravity weakened their muscles and bones, requiring careful re-acclimation to Earth's gravity. This protocol is crucial for astronauts' recovery after long space missions.
30,000 year old vulture that reveals completely new type of fossilisation
Volcanic deposits in central Italy have remarkably preserved the delicate tissue structures of a fossil vulture, including three-dimensional feathers, challenging previous fossilization theories. This discovery suggests that volcanic materials could be promising locations for uncovering equally well-preserved fossils, offering new insights for paleontological research.
Puffy face, chicken legs, and blurry vision: How Sunita Williams will adapt to Earth's environment
Nasa astronauts Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams returned to Earth after an extended nine-month stay in space, experiencing various physiological changes due to the absence of gravity. They are undergoing rehabilitation exercises to restore their health, and post-landing procedures include medical supervision and monitoring at Johnson Space Center.
Thousands of government scientists and researchers face dismissal threat under Trump’s federal workforce plan
The Trump administration plans to lay off thousands of scientists and researchers at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), with significant cuts to its scientific research division. This move aligns with President Trump's goal to reduce federal employment and environmental regulations.
Watch: Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore made spectacular splashdown after 286 days in space
Nasa astronauts Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams safely returned to Earth after an unexpected nine-month stay on the ISS due to technical issues with Boeing's Starliner crew capsule. They were brought back by SpaceX, which faced its own delays. During their extended mission, they completed crucial experiments and spacewalks, setting records and garnering prayers and support from the American public.
Sunita Williams becomes the second astronaut to spend the longest time in space – see the astronauts who spent the most time aboard the ISS
NASA astronauts like Peggy Whitson, Sunita Williams, and Scott Kelly have set records for the longest space missions on the ISS, contributing significantly to research and exploration. Their extended stays in space have provided invaluable data on the effects of long-duration spaceflight, crucial for future missions to the Moon and Mars.
Sunita Williams' ancestral village in Gujarat offers prayers, plans 'Diwali like celebrations' to welcome her return to Earth
Sunita Williams' ancestral village in Gujarat is planning grand celebrations as she returns to Earth after nine months at the ISS. Villagers in Jhulasan have been praying for her safety and will offer special tributes at the local temple. Williams' achievements in space continue to inspire, enhancing the community's excitement for her return.
Here’s what NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore can’t wait to do after landing on Earth
NASA astronauts Sunita Williams and Butch Wilmore will return to Earth soon. They stayed on the ISS for nine months due to issues with the Boeing Starliner spacecraft. Now they will return in SpaceX's Dragon capsule. NASA planned their return for March 19, 2025. This mission highlighted both the resilience of astronauts and challenges in commercial spaceflight.
Sunita Williams' return to Earth: Why SpaceX's Dragon takes 17 hours
NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Sunita Williams are returning to Earth aboard SpaceX's Crew Dragon after a nine-month stay at the International Space Station. The return, initially planned for June 2024, was delayed due to technical issues with Boeing’s Starliner. The Dragon capsule will splash down off Florida's coast, safely bringing the astronauts back.