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 33 sec ago
For decades, physicists assumed black holes can merge but cannot split; new calculations suggest a black hole spinning near its maximum speed might break in two, though nobody has ever observed it happening.
Recent theoretical study explores whether rapidly spinning black holes can split into two smaller black holes. Scientists have long believed that black holes are incapable of splitting due to entropy and the area theorem. The research proposes that under specific conditions, a spinning black hole could theoretically divide without violating physical laws. It introduces the concept of a pair-of-pants topology to describe this unusual scenario.
After years of flooding, Philippine village turns to bamboo, oyster shells and coconut waste to keep rising waters at bay
Pamarawan village in the Philippines has embraced an innovative coastal defense system to tackle flooding challenges. This initiative incorporates natural materials such as bamboo poles, oyster shells, and coconut husks to fortify against powerful waves and prevent sediment displacement. Remarkably, there have been no flooding incidents reported for almost two years since the project's inception, prompting officials to explore similar setups for other flood-threatened areas.
Scientists examining dinosaur fossils report evidence of preserved red blood cells and collagen amino acids, a finding led by Curtin University that could change how researchers investigate ancient biological material
Palaeontologists found fossilised signs of dinosaur blood and collagen in a 115-million-year-old dinosaur bone. These structures were discovered in a theropod dinosaur known as Aratasaurus museunacionali. Advanced techniques identified iron-containing heme and collagen, suggesting biological materials survived long periods. Researchers believe rapid burial in low-oxygen conditions contributed to preservation. This discovery opens new avenues for understanding dinosaur biology beyond skeletal remains.
Archaeologists studying an ancient Spanish copper mine uncovered stone tools and new evidence of Bronze Age production; the findings suggest metal from Iberia may have travelled as far north as Scandinavia
Archaeologists conducted a thorough investigation of Las Minillas, an ancient copper mine in southern Spain, revealing its historical impact. Over 700 stone tools and pottery shards were found, pinpointing extensive activity from 1300 to 700 BC. This research indicates that the copper mined here likely reached Scandinavia through trade networks, showcasing the interconnectedness of Bronze Age communities across Europe.
US wildlife teams surveyed six offshore islands for invasive species, finding rats on five and iguanas on one; the results will guide future work to protect nesting seabirds
Recent surveys in the U.S. Virgin Islands have identified invasive species on several offshore cays. Black rats and green iguanas pose significant threats to local seabird populations, such as the red-billed tropicbird. Conservationists are now evaluating strategies to eradicate these non-native animals from the islands. Removal efforts could lead to improved nesting conditions for seabirds in the future. Successful initiatives may help restore these vital habitats for future generations.
NASA's Hubble studied dwarf galaxies and found they kept just 11% of the oxygen made by their stars
A recent investigation revealed that dwarf galaxies only retain an average of 11% of the oxygen generated by their stars. The remaining oxygen likely escapes into space during powerful supernova explosions. This finding indicates that smaller galaxies have greater difficulty retaining their materials than previously believed. Researchers plan to conduct further studies to examine where this missing oxygen ultimately ends up.
US study finds eating one avocado & mango every day improves blood vessel function in prediabetic adults
A new research study indicates that integrating mango and avocado into your daily diet may significantly improve heart health. Focused on adults with prediabetes, this study monitored the effects of these fruits over eight weeks with controlled calorie intake. Results showed enhanced blood vessel performance and lowered blood pressure in male participants, highlighting the cardiovascular advantages of incorporating these nutritious fruits into your meals.
Australia launches A$28 million project to stop invasive cane toads from reaching Pilbara after 1935 introduction
A new project involving Curtin University and Rio Tinto seeks to establish a waterless barrier for cane toads. The initiative intends to protect Western Australia's Pilbara area from the ecologically damaging species. Researchers plan to modify water sources over a significant area to prevent the toads' survival. Traditional Owners have been engaged throughout the project to ensure cultural significance is respected.
NASA’s 3,200-pound Swift space telescope crashes back to Earth over Indonesia after failed $30 million rescue mission
NASA’s Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory re-entered Earth's atmosphere after 22 years in orbit, ending its mission. Swift was crucial for understanding gamma-ray bursts and other cosmic events, detecting over 2,000 bursts. The spacecraft's orbit deteriorated due to increased solar activity, leading to its uncontrolled descent. NASA attempted a rescue operation, but it ultimately failed, resulting in its re-entry on November 4, 2026.