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: 1 hour 14 min ago
Meet Vivian Liu, the 17-year-old who turned origami into a kindness movement across 50 nations
Vivian Liu has turned origami into a powerful global movement for kindness. Thousands of passionate young volunteers are making beautiful paper art to support those facing hardships. With more than 300 chapters in 50 countries, Origami For Good empowers youth with leadership skills and environmental consciousness, proving that even the smallest handcrafted items can create a profound and positive impact across the globe.
In 1989, Britain began reintroducing red kites after persecution left fewer than 10 breeding pairs
Once teetering on the brink of extinction, the red kite has staged a stunning comeback in Britain. Thanks to reintroduction efforts that began in 1989, with birds transported from Spain and Sweden, their population has surged astronomically—surpassing a 2,600 percent increase since 1995. These magnificent raptors are now found across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, although conservationists remain vigilant against potential threats to their continued survival.
Scientists found a way to turn egg and rice waste into a material that can store electricity
Researchers transformed egg and rice waste into a porous carbon material. This material, rich in nitrogen and oxygen, shows promise for energy storage. The developed carbon possesses a three-dimensional honeycomb structure with a high surface area. It demonstrated effective performance when tested in a supercapacitor device. This innovation offers a sustainable method for recycling food waste into functional materials.
Meet Yuvi Agarwal, the 12-year-old who plays music for shelter animals to help calm them
Yuvi Agarwal started Wild Tunes, a non-profit bringing musicians to animal shelters. This initiative aims to reduce stress and create positive human associations for pets. Volunteer musicians perform live music, helping animals feel more comfortable and relaxed. The program has expanded to multiple states, involving many volunteers. This effort improves adoption chances and builds musician confidence.
A 5,000-year-old skeleton had mysterious blue pigment; scientists seek its origin
Ancient Egyptian blue pigment's complex nature is revealed by scientific study. Researchers recreated the pigment to understand its variable color and composition. The blue's hue depended on cuprorivaite and other minerals present. Particle size and glass content also influenced the pigment's final appearance. These findings offer new insights into ancient Egyptian manufacturing and trade practices.
