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 48 min ago
In 1963, scientist swabbed his daughter’s throat; her virus strain led to a mumps vaccine in 1967
In 1963, scientist Maurice Hilleman collected a mumps virus sample from his five-year-old daughter Jeryl Lynn. Researchers weakened the virus to develop a vaccine, which was approved in 1967. The vaccine, based on the Jeryl Lynn strain, remains in use and helped transform the fight against mumps in the US.
A Colombian inventor created a device that lets deaf children feel birdsong through vibrations
Juan Sebastian Avila Perez has embarked on an innovative journey with his project, 'Wings of Inclusion', which empowers deaf individuals to connect with nature by identifying birds through vibrations. By translating bird songs into tactile sensations, this device not only enhances accessibility in birdwatching but also aims to address economic hurdles through field testing. His passion extends to conservation, striving to safeguard Colombia's rich bird diversity while fostering community engagement.
Puerto Rico seventh-grader turns plantain peels into mulch, cutting weeds by up to 53%
Wileidy Feliciano-Rivera, a seventh-grader from Puerto Rico, transformed discarded plantain peels into biodegradable mulch. This innovative project addressed plastic waste and showcased potential agricultural benefits. EcoMusa, the resultant mulch, effectively reduced weed growth during testing while retaining moisture and lowering soil temperatures. Wileidy's work has garnered recognition as a finalist in the 2026 Thermo Fisher Scientific Junior Innovators Challenge.
Mojave Desert search finds 6 new bee population groups; why tiny poppy specialist escaped endangered listing
Recent surveys have revealed six new population groups of the Mojave poppy bee, surprising biologists with the species’ extended range and resilience. Despite this positive news, a population group in Utah was unfortunately noted as lost. Findings suggest that the Mojave poppy bee does not currently warrant protection under the Endangered Species Act, but conservation efforts will persist to enhance its habitat monitoring.
Maryland planted 2.49 billion oyster seeds in Harris Creek, creating 343 acres of healthy reef
In a remarkable ecological achievement, Maryland has revitalized a significant expanse of oyster reef in Harris Creek, successfully planting over 2.49 billion oyster seeds to enhance the local oyster population. Recent monitoring indicates that a substantial portion of the restored reefs is meeting critical density and biomass benchmarks. This project is part of a broader collaborative initiative aimed at renewing oyster habitats crucial to the Chesapeake Bay's ecosystem.