Scientists have confirmed that the Atlas blue butterfly carries the most chromosomes of any animal, with 229 pairs. Unlike duplication, its chromosomes split apart, reshaping its genome in surprising ways. This discovery sheds light on evolution, conservation, and even cancer research. ​Scientists have confirmed that the Atlas blue butterfly carries the most chromosomes of any …

This tiny butterfly has the most chromosomes of any animal on Earth Read More »

A team of physicists has discovered that virtual charges, which exist only during brief interactions with light, play a critical role in ultrafast material responses. Using attosecond pulses on diamonds, they showed these hidden carriers significantly influence optical behavior. The findings could accelerate the development of petahertz-speed devices, unlocking a new era of ultrafast electronics. …

The hidden forces inside diamonds that could make tech 1,000x faster Read More »

Scientists have kept a tiny slice of cochlea alive outside the body, directly witnessing how hair cells amplify sound. The finding confirms a universal principle of hearing and could pave the way for long-sought treatments for hearing loss. ​Scientists have kept a tiny slice of cochlea alive outside the body, directly witnessing how hair cells …

First living cochlea outside the body shows how hearing really works Read More »

A new boron-rich compound, manganese diboride, delivers much higher energy density than current solid-rocket materials while remaining stable until intentionally ignited. Its power comes from an unusual, strained atomic structure formed during ultra-hot synthesis, with promising uses beyond propulsion. ​A new boron-rich compound, manganese diboride, delivers much higher energy density than current solid-rocket materials while …

New rocket fuel compound packs 150% more energy Read More »

Scientists have discovered that pollen is a hidden source of natural medicine for honeybees. Symbiotic bacteria called Streptomyces produce antimicrobial compounds that fight deadly bee and plant pathogens. Bees collect these bacteria along with pollen and store them in hives, creating a natural defense system. This could lead to new, sustainable ways of protecting both …

Pollen holds a secret that could save honeybees Read More »

Perseverance rover data shows Jezero Crater once held a calm lake, leaving behind mudstones rich in organic-linked minerals. The presence of iron-phosphate and iron-sulfide nodules suggests processes resembling microbial activity on Earth. Scientists caution that only Earth-based labs can confirm their true origin, but the samples collected may hold the strongest evidence yet of ancient …

Scientists just found the strongest signs of life on Mars yet Read More »

The LUX-ZEPLIN detector is breaking new ground in the hunt for dark matter, setting unprecedented limits on WIMP particles. Its results not only narrow the possibilities for dark matter but also open exciting paths toward other rare physics discoveries. ​The LUX-ZEPLIN detector is breaking new ground in the hunt for dark matter, setting unprecedented limits …

Scientists may be closing in on dark matter’s true identity Read More »

A team of researchers tested morin, a plant compound, against gum disease bacteria and found strong antimicrobial benefits. By encapsulating it in polymers, they created a powdered form for oral hygiene products. This could replace antibiotics, avoid side effects from existing treatments, and help vulnerable patients maintain oral health. ​A team of researchers tested morin, …

A plant compound might be the secret weapon against gum disease Read More »

Astronomers using the James Webb Space Telescope are unraveling the mysteries of TRAPPIST-1e, an Earth-sized exoplanet 40 light years away that could harbor liquid water. Early data suggests hints of an atmosphere, but much remains uncertain. Researchers have already ruled out a hydrogen-rich primordial atmosphere, pointing instead to the possibility of a secondary atmosphere that …

Webb spots first hints of atmosphere on a potentially habitable world Read More »

For decades, Uranus baffled scientists because it seemed to have no internal heat. Now, new computer modeling shows the planet actually emits more energy than it receives from the Sun. This subtle warmth suggests Uranus’ story is more complex than previously thought, offering fresh clues about its violent past and about exoplanets similar in size. …

Scientists just solved Uranus’ coldest mystery Read More »