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: 18 min 22 sec ago
Scientists discover heat-resistant coral reefs across 71 countries that could help protect oceans
A groundbreaking study has revealed the extensive mapping of over 64,000 square miles of heat-resistant coral reefs globally, empowered by artificial intelligence across 71 nations and 100 territories. These extraordinary underwater locales feature traits that help coral ecosystems endure and rebound from intense marine heatwaves. The outcomes of this research present an essential blueprint for focused conservation financing and the safeguarding of marine life during the alarming bleaching epidemic.
Quote of the day by Isaac Newton: "No great discovery was ever made without…"
Genuine scientific progress begins with a bold guess, a question without an immediate answer. This initial hypothesis, though unproven, provides a crucial starting point for investigation. Curiosity fuels the process, opening avenues for evidence to later confirm or refute ideas. Even if the attribution is uncertain, the sentiment reflects how discovery truly functions. Fear of being wrong often hinders people from proposing new concepts for testing.
Scientists played human voices near Alaska salmon streams and found that bears and eagles fled
New findings from Canadian researchers reveal that human sounds near Alaska's salmon streams significantly disturb wildlife, leading to grizzly bears avoiding feeding areas. This interference disrupts the natural nutrient transfer to surrounding forests, emphasizing the detrimental effects of human activity on essential ecosystem dynamics. Scientists propose enhanced land management practices to safeguard these critical ecological processes.
Chimpanzees climb hills, meerkats close ranks: Scientists tell what animals do before war
Social animals exhibit fascinating preemptive behaviors when anticipating conflicts with rival groups. They engage in various strategies such as gathering information and assessing risks prior to any altercation. Depending on the magnitude of the threat perceived, species might amplify their alertness, assert territorial claims, bolster social connections, or even embark on offensive actions against adversaries.
Japan is building a system to beam wireless electricity from space directly to Earth: Inside the OHISAMA mission that could change how we power our homes
Japan's OHISAMA project aims to launch a satellite by 2026. This mission will demonstrate beaming solar energy from space to Earth. The project seeks to overcome limitations of land-based solar power generation. Success could lead to larger orbital power stations by 2050.
China’s giant sinkholes are protecting an endangered tree, but they may also be trapping its future
In China, vast sinkholes provide a refuge for the rare Magnolia aromatica trees, buffering them against the harsh realities of climate change. These subterranean havens create stable microclimates that support these endangered species. However, this isolation can limit genetic diversity and hinder the trees' adaptability to future environmental changes. To ensure their survival, conservation efforts must focus on safeguarding habitats while facilitating gene flow between populations.
