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: 8 min 40 sec ago
Vivien He developed a device that detects earthquake signals and sends warnings through alarms
Vivien He has created an innovative IoT device called Qube, retailing for under $100. This device specializes in detecting earthquakes and alerts users through alarms or text messages. After a nine-month trial, it successfully identified quakes greater than M 3.0 in the Los Angeles region. The data collected indicated a reliable correlation between ground movements and quake magnitudes, underscoring the viability of affordable earthquake warning solutions in cities.
In 1993, a project set out to reconnect wildlife habitat from Yellowstone to Canada's Yukon
The Yellowstone to Yukon Conservation Initiative is proudly nominated for Prince William's Earthshot Prize in 2026. This groundbreaking effort aims to reinstate a vital 3,400-kilometre wildlife corridor through the majestic Rocky Mountains. Achieving over 200 wildlife crossings and safeguarding around 24 million hectares, Indigenous involvement is key to strengthening conservation practices here. Looking forward, the initiative hopes to secure an extra 20 million hectares by 2030.
California acquired 640 acres near Pioneertown for western Joshua tree conservation
California state officials secured 640 acres of desert land near Pioneertown for western Joshua tree conservation. Researchers identified this land as suitable for the species despite climate change. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife completed the acquisition with funds from the Western Joshua Tree Conservation Fund. Collaboration with Native American tribes is planned for long-term stewardship of the property.
Burmese pythons are climbing trees, revealing differences between adults and juveniles
Burmese pythons were radio-tracked in Big Cypress National Preserve from 2017 to 2024 to study habitat use. Researchers found that juveniles displayed greater arboreal behavior compared to adult pythons, with varying seasonal patterns. Adult pythons preferred trees during the cooler dry season, while juveniles showed similar trends in habitat usage. The study recorded different tree species preferred by various sized pythons during arboreal observations.
Why reindeer eyes turn deep blue in winter and how it helps them see in Arctic twilight
Reindeer experience a seasonal change in eye color that enhances their ability to see in dim Arctic light. This adaptation involves a shift in the tapetum lucidum from gold-turquoise in summer to deep blue in winter. The deep blue reflection helps reindeer forage and detect predators in low-light conditions. Changes in collagen fibril spacing within the eye's reflector contribute to this transformation.
Roman-era pyramid tomb found in Egypt’s Dakhla Oasis, dating back 1,700 years
A rare pyramid-shaped tomb has been uncovered at Bir Al-Shaghala in Egypt's Dakhla Oasis and dates back to the Roman period. The tomb, built from mud brick, combines Egyptian and Roman architectural styles and includes inscriptions. Among the findings is a Greek funerary poem dedicated to a man named Psychtis, indicating cultural exchanges. Archaeologists also discovered artifacts related to funerary rituals, including an offering table and a bronze coin.
