Science
Scientists discover why smoking loosens teeth and eats away at bone
Researchers have identified a molecular chain reaction, involving the CXCL12 signal, that explains how smoking damages gum tissue and bone structure. This discovery could lead to targeted therapies that address inflammation in periodontitis without compromising broader immune defenses.
Black hole spectroscopy advances as a tool to test general relativity
Data from the GW250114 black hole merger allows scientists to map the 'ringing' of space-time, providing a test for Einstein’s general relativity. This analysis also confirms predictions such as Hawking’s area theorem.
UCLA researchers develop chemical process to convert mixed plastic into hydrogen
A new chemical process converts mixed plastic waste into high-purity hydrogen fuel by eliminating the need for sorting. This research offers a potential route for waste reduction and energy production.
LSU physicists develop first room-temperature quantum material
Researchers at Louisiana State University have developed a quantum statistical plasmonic metacrystal that maintains coherence at room temperature. This development offers a new blueprint for quantum computing and potential applications in increasing solar cell efficiency.
Barnard’s Star planets found to be uninhabitable and mineral-rich
Scientific analysis has ruled out habitability for the four exoplanets orbiting Barnard's Star due to extreme heat, volatile geology, and atmosphere loss.
Beta Pictoris hosts a newly discovered faint planet after decade-long search
Researchers identified the dimmest planet ever directly imaged, uncovering a cold gas giant within the Beta Pictoris system after it remained hidden for 11 years.
AI identifies liquid-like ion flow in solids
AI identifies liquid-like ion flow in solids
Spiral arms form as dynamic density patterns that move through galaxies
A study of 22 galaxies shows that molecular cloud lifecycles remain consistent regardless of their location, suggesting spiral arms organize gas.
What does it mean to be ‘quantum’? A physicist explains the basics
Scientists are transitioning from exploring quantum mechanics to harnessing qubits for advanced computing, while addressing the cybersecurity threats posed.
Rubin Observatory begins decade-long cosmic survey in Chile
Equipped with the world's largest digital camera, the observatory is beginning a massive cinematic survey of the southern sky to track transient events. The project aims to study the universe by mapping billions of stars and galaxies over the next decade.
When eyeing a predator, horses keep a poker face as their hearts race
A study shows that horses can experience high physiological stress during predator encounters without displaying common outward signs of agitation. This disconnect suggests handlers must look beyond physical behavior to accurately assess a horse's internal welfare.
Beta Pictoris d discovered as the faintest exoplanet imaged from Earth
Researchers have confirmed the discovery of Beta Pictoris d, a gas giant 63 light-years away, while a separate study revealed four previously obscured stellar remnants.
SpaceX crew completes first successful diagnostic X-rays in orbit
A commercial crew aboard the Fram2 mission has successfully captured the first diagnostic-quality X-rays in orbit using an ultraportable wireless system. This milestone demonstrates the potential for portable radiography to support both human health and equipment testing in microgravity.
Astronauts successfully conduct first diagnostic X-ray imaging in orbit
A civilian crew successfully captured diagnostic-quality X-rays in microgravity during the SpaceXray project. This milestone demonstrates new capabilities for monitoring bone health and inspecting equipment during spaceflight.
US and China face potential land grab competition over lunar south pole resources
The race for the lunar south pole involves U.S. and Chinese efforts to secure critical resources, potentially shaping the governance of cislunar space.
James Webb telescope reveals origin of infrared light near black hole
New observations from the James Webb Space Telescope are challenging established timelines of galactic evolution by revealing how supermassive black holes grow.
NASA's Roman Telescope Will Spot Distant Black Holes That Shred Stars
A new study suggests the Roman Space Telescope will track star-shredding events to help researchers determine how supermassive black holes formed in the early universe.
Gus the T. rex fossil sells for record 50.1 million dollars at auction
A 67-million-year-old T. rex skeleton known as Gus has sold for a record $50.1 million at auction, fueling ongoing debate regarding private ownership.
FCC approves Reflect Orbital space mirror test despite safety concerns
Regulators have cleared an experimental space mirror test despite warnings from astronomers that the technology could disrupt research and ecosystems. The mission is the first step toward the company's proposed goal of providing sunlight on demand.
37-year soil study reveals warming destabilizes long-term carbon stores
Long-term research at Harvard Forest shows that persistent warming causes stable soil organic matter to decompose, releasing additional carbon dioxide. This process suggests climate models may need to account for soil-driven feedback loops as global temperatures rise.