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: 31 min 52 sec ago
Male redback spiders somersault directly towards a female’s fangs during mating
Recent research uncovers that a singular genetic region governs the intricate somersaulting behavior of male redback spiders during mating rituals. This fascinating behavior, crucial for reproduction, is inherited through the X chromosome. Experimental hybrids indicate that this somersault characteristic is not only recessive but also X-linked. Conversely, abdominal narrowing seems influenced by a combination of multiple genes and environmental conditions, challenging traditional views on the complexity of genetic traits.
Meet ‘MOXIE’, a small Nasa device that for the first time made oxygen on Mars
Nasa's MOXIE instrument has successfully extracted oxygen from Martian carbon dioxide during its operation on Mars from 2021 to 2023. This innovative device proved vital for potential future missions to the Red Planet by producing 122 grams of oxygen, far surpassing its goals. The achievement underscores the ability to generate essential resources locally on Mars, paving the way for human exploration.
London river was declared 'biologically dead' in 1957; decades later it is filled with sharks and seals
The River Thames in London has made a remarkable recovery, evolving from a biologically barren stretch to a vibrant ecosystem full of life, such as sharks and seals. This revitalization is attributed to decades of pollution management and enhanced sewage systems. The Thames Tideway Tunnel plays a crucial role in minimizing sewage discharge. However, challenges like warming waters and nitrate pollution still pose threats.
Astronomers spot a possible ‘black hole star’ in the early Universe
Astronomers have made a groundbreaking discovery of an extraordinary object from the early Universe named MoM-BH*-1. This potential precursor to a supermassive black hole was detected using Nasa's James Webb Space Telescope shortly after the Big Bang. Researchers propose that it is enveloped in dense, turbulent gas, possibly clarifying the origins of the enigmatic red dots seen by JWST.
Australian backpack uses insulation and weatherproofing as an emergency bed
The backpack bed is a game-changing solution for those experiencing homelessness, providing a portable sleeping space that shields users from harsh weather conditions. Designed for comfort, it comes equipped with a mattress and storage, promoting dignity for its users. While it's an immediate response to homelessness, it serves as a bridge to longer-term assistance rather than a fixed-housing option.
Quote of the day by Pythagoras: "The soul of man is divided into three parts.."
Pythagoras believed that the human soul is divided into three components: intelligence, reason, and passion. Intelligence serves to help us grasp the intricacies of our world, while passion fuels our drive towards our ambitions. Reason empowers us to reflect on potential outcomes before we act. This age-old philosophy continues to offer valuable insights into the complexities of human decision-making today.
Why has Britain's grass turned yellow? Scientists warn about the future of the island after 'driest month ever'
After experiencing the driest July on record, England's picturesque green fields have succumbed to a fading yellow hue. This alarming trend of increasing heatwaves significantly affects lawns and public parks. While native grasses possess resilience during droughts and can deepen their roots to conserve water, extended dry periods inevitably lead them to enter a dormant state, awaiting rain.
Morocco is testing a 'sponge' pavement that stays 16°F cooler by itself, aims at replacing black asphalt
Morocco is pioneering a novel sponge pavement designed to enhance water management and mitigate heat effects. Unlike conventional black asphalt, this innovative surface enables water to seep through, promoting natural cooling through evaporation when moisture exists. This initiative aims to bolster urban climate resilience and elevate the comfort of residents, with pilot projects underway in Marrakech and Agadir as part of a larger sustainable city initiative.
Alaska’s tundra hides ancient carbon; thawing could cost $43 trillion worldwide
The ancient organic materials trapped in Alaskan permafrost are beginning to thaw, releasing greenhouse gases that pose severe economic threats. By 2200, this thawing could result in an astonishing $43 trillion in damages globally. Researchers have effectively linked climate change with these emissions, outlining consequences like diminished agricultural yields and higher cooling costs. Immediate strategies for emission reduction could significantly mitigate the expected economic fallout.
Pakistan joins China Moon race with Jinnah-1 rover; mission in 2029
Pakistan has named its first lunar rover Jinnah-1 for a 2029 mission. The rover will join China's Chang'e-8 mission to study the Moon's south pole. Jinnah-1 will conduct scientific research on plasma, radiation, and lunar geology. This collaboration marks a significant milestone for Pakistan's space program. The mission aims to explore the lunar south pole's potential resources and human activity.
German startup Voodin swaps fibreglass for wood turbine blades, aiming for recyclable blades at commercial scale
A pioneering startup in Germany is crafting wind turbine blades using laminated veneer lumber, presenting a sustainable solution to the prevalent fiberglass composite problem. The initial prototypes are currently being tested in the field, demonstrating their potential. This innovation seeks to tackle the increasing challenge of waste generated by conventional wind turbine blades, with plans for larger models aimed at commercial projects on the horizon.
Quote of the day by Alan Turing: "I believe that at the end of the century.."
Alan Turing's visionary foresight of machines possessing thought capabilities was quite revolutionary for his time. His insights projected a world where society would come to readily embrace artificial intelligence. This evolution highlights the transformative impact of technology on our understanding of intelligence. In today's landscape, artificial intelligence has become ubiquitous, seamlessly integrating into human tasks and challenging our perceptions of cognition and understanding.
