Professor Susumu Kitagawa, the 2025 Chemistry Nobel laureate, attributes his groundbreaking work on metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) to a Japanese research tradition of relentless curiosity and discipline. Inspired by academic predecessors and classical philosophy, he embraced an unexpected observation, demonstrating how a prepared mind can transform chance into revolutionary discovery.

A California startup plans to launch thousands of giant mirrors into orbit to bounce sunlight back to Earth after dark, creating "light on demand." While proponents cite benefits for energy and agriculture, scientists warn of catastrophic light pollution, disrupting wildlife and astronomical observations. The project faces significant environmental and scientific concerns.

A powerful solar storm recently struck Venus, stripping its atmosphere due to the lack of a magnetic field. While Earth was spared this time, scientists warn this is a precursor to increased solar activity as the Sun nears its peak. This event, observed by the Parker Solar Probe, highlights the potential for future disruptions to Earth's power grids and communications.