New Scientist - Home New Scientist - Home https://www.newscientist.com/ New Scientist - Home https://www.newscientist.com/build/images/ns-logo-scaled.ed2dc11a.png https://www.newscientist.com daily 1 Tiny T. rex fossils may be distinct species – but not everyone agrees https://www.newscientist.com/article/2410573-tiny-t-rex-fossils-may-be-distinct-species-but-not-everyone-agrees/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Wed, 03 Jan 2024 00:01:03 +0000 Palaeontologists can’t agree on whether fossils from several small dinosaurs represent juvenile Tyrannosaurus rex or smaller adults of a separate species that lived alongside them 2410573-tiny-t-rex-fossils-may-be-distinct-species-but-not-everyone-agrees|2410573 Extreme close-up of Jupiter’s moon Io captured by Juno spacecraft https://www.newscientist.com/article/2410511-extreme-close-up-of-jupiters-moon-io-captured-by-juno-spacecraft/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Tue, 02 Jan 2024 16:09:26 +0000 NASA’s Juno spacecraft flew past Io on 30 December and took one of our best pictures yet of this moon of Jupiter 2410511-extreme-close-up-of-jupiters-moon-io-captured-by-juno-spacecraft|2410511 Why do people get postnatal anxiety and how can we treat it? https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg26134722-300-why-do-people-get-postnatal-anxiety-and-how-can-we-treat-it/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Tue, 02 Jan 2024 16:00:00 +0000 The birth of a child is a happy time for most, but overwhelming anxiety can take hold for some parents. Why does this happen and what can we do about it? mg26134722-300-why-do-people-get-postnatal-anxiety-and-how-can-we-treat-it|2410318 Vast submerged area near Australia may once have hosted 500,000 people https://www.newscientist.com/article/2410467-vast-submerged-area-near-australia-may-once-have-hosted-500000-people/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Tue, 02 Jan 2024 14:13:45 +0000 An area of the seabed north of Australia has been mapped in detail for the first time, revealing that large numbers of people could have lived there until it was inundated by rising seas 2410467-vast-submerged-area-near-australia-may-once-have-hosted-500000-people|2410467 Get ready to see a total solar eclipse in 2024 – here's how https://www.newscientist.com/article/2408616-get-ready-to-see-a-total-solar-eclipse-in-2024-heres-how/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Sun, 31 Dec 2023 15:00:19 +0000 The moon will cover the sun on 8 April 2024 for people in parts of the US, Canada and Mexico, creating an experience unlike any other 2408616-get-ready-to-see-a-total-solar-eclipse-in-2024-heres-how|2408616 Vera C. Rubin Observatory will start scanning the night sky in 2024 https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg26034712-100-vera-c-rubin-observatory-will-start-scanning-the-night-sky-in-2024/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Wed, 27 Dec 2023 18:00:00 +0000 A massive telescope in Chile is set to begin operations in 2024, and once it is up and running the pictures will be extraordinary mg26034712-100-vera-c-rubin-observatory-will-start-scanning-the-night-sky-in-2024|2409528 The best new science fiction books of January 2024 https://www.newscientist.com/article/2410196-the-best-new-science-fiction-books-of-january-2024/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Tue, 02 Jan 2024 12:00:10 +0000 From Machine Vendetta by Alastair Reynolds to Tlotlo Tsamaase’s Womb City and Ali Millar’s Ava Anna Ada, January’s sci-fi will chase the New Year blues away 2410196-the-best-new-science-fiction-books-of-january-2024|2410196 Probiotics help treat recurring urinary tract infections https://www.newscientist.com/article/2410096-probiotics-help-treat-recurring-urinary-tract-infections/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Tue, 02 Jan 2024 10:00:31 +0000 Taking a vaginal probiotic, either on its own or with an oral probiotic, for four months reduced the incidence of urinary tract infections in women with a history of recurring UTIs 2410096-probiotics-help-treat-recurring-urinary-tract-infections|2410096 In 2024 the Hera mission will revisit the asteroid punched by NASA https://www.newscientist.com/article/2406405-in-2024-the-hera-mission-will-revisit-the-asteroid-punched-by-nasa/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Tue, 02 Jan 2024 10:00:19 +0000 NASA’s DART mission slammed into the asteroid Dimorphos in 2022, and the European Space Agency is sending the Hera mission to investigate the collision’s aftermath 2406405-in-2024-the-hera-mission-will-revisit-the-asteroid-punched-by-nasa|2406405 International fleet of spacecraft is heading to the moon in 2024 https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg26034712-700-international-fleet-of-spacecraft-is-heading-to-the-moon-in-2024/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Wed, 27 Dec 2023 18:00:00 +0000 More than 10 missions are heading to the moon in 2024, with orbiters, landers, rovers and even crewed spacecraft making the trip and paving the way for future exploration mg26034712-700-international-fleet-of-spacecraft-is-heading-to-the-moon-in-2024|2409534 AI learns to recognise objects with the efficiency of a newborn chick https://www.newscientist.com/article/2409186-ai-learns-to-recognise-objects-with-the-efficiency-of-a-newborn-chick/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Mon, 01 Jan 2024 11:00:24 +0000 Shortly after hatching, chicks quickly learn to recognise moving objects with only a few examples – now AIs can do the same 2409186-ai-learns-to-recognise-objects-with-the-efficiency-of-a-newborn-chick|2409186 2024 will break the extreme temperature records set in 2023 https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg26034712-200-2024-will-break-the-extreme-temperature-records-set-in-2023/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Wed, 27 Dec 2023 18:00:00 +0000 The elements that conspired to make 2023 so unusually warm are likely to push the dial even further in 2024, with meteorologists already warning about extreme heat mg26034712-200-2024-will-break-the-extreme-temperature-records-set-in-2023|2409529 What 2024 will look like, from moon missions to COP29 https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg26034711-600-what-2024-will-look-like-from-moon-missions-to-cop29/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Wed, 27 Dec 2023 18:00:00 +0000 While 2024 will see more of 2023’s defining features, from record-breaking temperatures to advances in artificial intelligence, the year could also usher in a new space age and even a whole new epoch mg26034711-600-what-2024-will-look-like-from-moon-missions-to-cop29|2409502 Encryption upgrade in 2024 will keep data safe from quantum computers https://www.newscientist.com/article/2408996-encryption-upgrade-in-2024-will-keep-data-safe-from-quantum-computers/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Sun, 31 Dec 2023 10:00:01 +0000 We probably don't need to worry about quantum computers being able to break encryption in 2024, but cryptographers are planning a security upgrade just in case 2408996-encryption-upgrade-in-2024-will-keep-data-safe-from-quantum-computers|2408996 Think small for attainable New Year's resolutions https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg26034710-400-think-small-for-attainable-new-years-resolutions/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Wed, 27 Dec 2023 18:00:00 +0000 Making ambitious goals for the year ahead can set you up for disappointment, so try embracing the concept of kaizen instead, says David Robson mg26034710-400-think-small-for-attainable-new-years-resolutions|2408814 Why tending your oral microbiome is the secret to a long, healthy life https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg26034711-800-why-tending-your-oral-microbiome-is-the-secret-to-a-long-healthy-life/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Wed, 27 Dec 2023 17:00:00 +0000 There are untold legions of viruses, fungi and bacteria living in your mouth. It now seems we can stave off conditions from Alzheimer's disease to cancer by keeping them in a healthy balance mg26034711-800-why-tending-your-oral-microbiome-is-the-secret-to-a-long-healthy-life|2409504 Europa Clipper will launch to Jupiter in 2024 to explore its icy moon https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg26034711-900-europa-clipper-will-launch-to-jupiter-in-2024-to-explore-its-icy-moon/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Wed, 27 Dec 2023 18:00:00 +0000 Jupiter's moon Europa is thought to be one of the best places to look for life beyond Earth, thanks to its subsurface ocean, and in 2024 NASA is launching a mission to take a close look mg26034711-900-europa-clipper-will-launch-to-jupiter-in-2024-to-explore-its-icy-moon|2409526 Aloe vera plants turned into energy-storing supercapacitors https://www.newscientist.com/article/2409497-aloe-vera-plants-turned-into-energy-storing-supercapacitors/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Fri, 29 Dec 2023 12:00:25 +0000 A battery-like device known as a supercapacitor can be created from different parts of aloe vera plants – and it can be used to make living plants power lights 2409497-aloe-vera-plants-turned-into-energy-storing-supercapacitors|2409497 Premature babies could be treated with an artificial uterus in 2024 https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg26034712-400-premature-babies-could-be-treated-with-an-artificial-uterus-in-2024/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Wed, 27 Dec 2023 18:00:00 +0000 Premature lambs continued developing when placed in a sac-like artificial uterus. Off the back of this, US officials are hinting that the first in-human trial could soon be underway mg26034712-400-premature-babies-could-be-treated-with-an-artificial-uterus-in-2024|2409531 Have we found filaments of pure energy unleashed during the big bang? https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg26034710-300-have-we-found-filaments-of-pure-energy-unleashed-during-the-big-bang/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Wed, 27 Dec 2023 14:00:00 +0000 Puzzling ancient galaxies and oddly shaped clusters suggest we have glimpsed cosmic strings travelling at the speed of light – and with them clues to a deeper theory of reality mg26034710-300-have-we-found-filaments-of-pure-energy-unleashed-during-the-big-bang|2408813 The 13 best sci-fi series and science shows to look forward to in 2024 https://www.newscientist.com/article/2410170-the-13-best-sci-fi-series-and-science-shows-to-look-forward-to-in-2024/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Wed, 27 Dec 2023 18:00:00 +0000 Fallout, 3 Body Problem and the final series of Andor should air in 2024, alongside BBC nature documentaries and gritty TV dramas like Toxic Town, says Bethan Ackerley 2410170-the-13-best-sci-fi-series-and-science-shows-to-look-forward-to-in-2024|2410170 Hannah Ritchie: 'Eco-anxiety on its own is not that useful' https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg26034710-200-hannah-ritchie-eco-anxiety-on-its-own-is-not-that-useful/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Tue, 26 Dec 2023 16:00:00 +0000 Climate change and biodiversity loss may seem like insurmountable problems, but data scientist Hannah Ritchie is cautiously optimistic we can solve them mg26034710-200-hannah-ritchie-eco-anxiety-on-its-own-is-not-that-useful|2408812 Headset delivers electric current to ease depression at home https://www.newscientist.com/article/2408516-headset-delivers-electric-current-to-ease-depression-at-home/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Fri, 29 Dec 2023 14:00:09 +0000 A headset that can be worn at home relieves symptoms of depression to a similar degree as antidepressants 2408516-headset-delivers-electric-current-to-ease-depression-at-home|2408516 AI firms will face copyright infringement lawsuits in 2024 https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg26034712-500-ai-firms-will-face-copyright-infringement-lawsuits-in-2024/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Wed, 27 Dec 2023 18:00:00 +0000 Tech giants are gearing up for a series of potentially bitter legal battles over claims they used copyrighted material in training the latest generation of artificial intelligence mg26034712-500-ai-firms-will-face-copyright-infringement-lawsuits-in-2024|2409532 Quantum state of matter made with 'dipolar' molecules for first time https://www.newscientist.com/article/2409964-quantum-state-of-matter-made-with-dipolar-molecules-for-first-time/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Fri, 29 Dec 2023 13:00:10 +0000 A quantum state of matter comprising molecules with opposite charges at each end has been made for the first time. It could help probe our understanding of the quantum properties of exotic materials 2409964-quantum-state-of-matter-made-with-dipolar-molecules-for-first-time|2409964 2024 could finally see greenhouse gas emissions start to decline https://www.newscientist.com/article/2408609-2024-could-finally-see-greenhouse-gas-emissions-start-to-decline/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Fri, 29 Dec 2023 10:00:18 +0000 If governments step up support for renewable energy and other efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, 2024 could see total carbon emissions begin to fall 2408609-2024-could-finally-see-greenhouse-gas-emissions-start-to-decline|2408609 Human cells have a resonant frequency – and it’s just barely audible https://www.newscientist.com/article/2409699-human-cells-have-a-resonant-frequency-and-its-just-barely-audible/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Thu, 28 Dec 2023 07:00:31 +0000 Like a tuning fork, living human cells have frequencies at which they naturally vibrate – and now we have estimates for what some of them are 2409699-human-cells-have-a-resonant-frequency-and-its-just-barely-audible|2409699 See a dazzling collection of the year's best northern lights pictures https://www.newscientist.com/article/0-see-a-dazzling-collection-of-the-years-best-northern-lights-pictures/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Wed, 27 Dec 2023 18:00:00 +0000 This spectacular selection of images is taken from the winners of the Northern Lights Photographer of the Year competition, run by Capture the Atlas 0-see-a-dazzling-collection-of-the-years-best-northern-lights-pictures|2409797 12 extraordinary science fiction books to watch out for in 2024 https://www.newscientist.com/article/12-12-extraordinary-science-fiction-books-to-watch-out-for-in-2024/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Wed, 27 Dec 2023 18:00:00 +0000 From a new Adrian Tchaikovsky novel to pandemic echoes in Haruki Murakami's The City and its Uncertain Walls (fingers crossed we get an English translation), there is loads of excellent science fiction reading ahead next year, says Sally Adee 12-12-extraordinary-science-fiction-books-to-watch-out-for-in-2024|2410167 CRISPR engineered viruses could render other viruses harmless https://www.newscientist.com/article/2408634-crispr-engineered-viruses-could-render-other-viruses-harmless/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Fri, 29 Dec 2023 06:00:49 +0000 A virus engineered using CRISPR technology spread its DNA to other viruses in mice, causing them to become harmless 2408634-crispr-engineered-viruses-could-render-other-viruses-harmless|2408634 Much of North America may face electricity shortages starting in 2024 https://www.newscientist.com/article/2409679-much-of-north-america-may-face-electricity-shortages-starting-in-2024/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Sat, 23 Dec 2023 12:00:42 +0000 Over the next several years, many regions of the US and Canada may struggle to ensure a reliable electricity supply amid soaring energy demand from the tech industry and electrification of buildings and vehicles 2409679-much-of-north-america-may-face-electricity-shortages-starting-in-2024|2409679 People’s ‘speed of sight’ varies and this may explain sporting prowess https://www.newscientist.com/article/2409000-peoples-speed-of-sight-varies-and-this-may-explain-sporting-prowess/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Thu, 28 Dec 2023 16:00:52 +0000 There is significant variation in people’s ability to visually track fast-moving objects, which might explain why they have superior abilities in some sports 2409000-peoples-speed-of-sight-varies-and-this-may-explain-sporting-prowess|2409000 The weird tale of California Forever, a tech billionaire instant city https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg26034712-800-the-weird-tale-of-california-forever-a-tech-billionaire-instant-city/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Wed, 27 Dec 2023 18:00:00 +0000 A group of Silicon Valley investors wants to see a brand new community for 50,000 people rise out of the dirt north of San Francisco. It's really not a good idea, says Annalee Newitz mg26034712-800-the-weird-tale-of-california-forever-a-tech-billionaire-instant-city|2409535 Radio bursts from space are exhibiting a strange ‘sad trombone’ effect https://www.newscientist.com/article/2409468-radio-bursts-from-space-are-exhibiting-a-strange-sad-trombone-effect/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Thu, 28 Dec 2023 13:00:54 +0000 Astronomers have spotted a set of 35 mysterious flashes of radio waves from space that seem to show a strange phenomenon of decreasing frequency that has never been seen before 2409468-radio-bursts-from-space-are-exhibiting-a-strange-sad-trombone-effect|2409468 Springs made from rusty metallic glass could power nanorobots https://www.newscientist.com/article/2409232-springs-made-from-rusty-metallic-glass-could-power-nanorobots/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Thu, 28 Dec 2023 12:00:50 +0000 Most metals oxidise, or rust, when exposed to air, which normally weakens them, but a kind of metallic glass instead gets more springy 2409232-springs-made-from-rusty-metallic-glass-could-power-nanorobots|2409232 Celebrating New Year with the otorhinolaryngology crew https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg26034711-500-celebrating-new-year-with-the-otorhinolaryngology-crew/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Wed, 27 Dec 2023 18:00:00 +0000 Feedback enjoys 16 years of adventures - including pyrotechnics - on New Year’s Eve in the otorhinolaryngology department of a single hospital mg26034711-500-celebrating-new-year-with-the-otorhinolaryngology-crew|2409525 Europe plans to build the world’s fastest supercomputer in 2024 https://www.newscientist.com/article/2396876-europe-plans-to-build-the-worlds-fastest-supercomputer-in-2024/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Thu, 28 Dec 2023 10:00:52 +0000 Europe will get its first exascale supercomputer next year, called JUPITER, and it should allow simulations that are currently possible only on a few machines worldwide 2396876-europe-plans-to-build-the-worlds-fastest-supercomputer-in-2024|2396876 Japan is sending a rover to Mars's moon Phobos in 2024 https://www.newscientist.com/article/2403246-japan-is-sending-a-rover-to-marss-moon-phobos-in-2024/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Thu, 28 Dec 2023 10:00:19 +0000 The Martian Moons eXploration mission is slated to launch for Phobos in September 2024 – once it gets there, it will drop off a rover, pick up some samples and head home 2403246-japan-is-sending-a-rover-to-marss-moon-phobos-in-2024|2403246 Is artificial intelligence about to free us from the curse of Babel? https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg26034711-700-is-artificial-intelligence-about-to-free-us-from-the-curse-of-babel/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Wed, 27 Dec 2023 18:00:00 +0000 Artificial intelligence will make it easier than ever to communicate across linguistic borders. But is this a good thing, asks linguist Philip Seargeant mg26034711-700-is-artificial-intelligence-about-to-free-us-from-the-curse-of-babel|2409503 We might officially enter the Anthropocene epoch in 2024 https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg26034712-600-we-might-officially-enter-the-anthropocene-epoch-in-2024/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Tue, 26 Dec 2023 18:00:00 +0000 Scientific bodies are due to make an official decision in the coming year about whether to declare a new geochronological unit precipitated by the impact of humans on Earth mg26034712-600-we-might-officially-enter-the-anthropocene-epoch-in-2024|2409533 Mathematicians found a guaranteed way to win the lottery in 2023 https://www.newscientist.com/article/2394880-mathematicians-found-a-guaranteed-way-to-win-the-lottery-in-2023/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Tue, 26 Dec 2023 10:00:47 +0000 A pair of mathematicians studied the UK National Lottery and figured out a combination of 27 tickets that guarantees you will always win, but they tell New Scientist they don't bother to play 2394880-mathematicians-found-a-guaranteed-way-to-win-the-lottery-in-2023|2394880 20 non-fiction and popular science books to look forward to in 2024 https://www.newscientist.com/article/0-20-non-fiction-and-popular-science-books-to-look-forward-to-in-2024/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Wed, 27 Dec 2023 18:00:00 +0000 Why is gravity still a puzzle? Do humans make pandemics? Are we all ocean people? 2024’s best reads, by authors from Claudia de Rham to Helen Scales, probe our toughest questions 0-20-non-fiction-and-popular-science-books-to-look-forward-to-in-2024|2409564 Slower arm speed may be why older people fall more easily after a slip https://www.newscientist.com/article/2409722-slower-arm-speed-may-be-why-older-people-fall-more-easily-after-a-slip/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Wed, 27 Dec 2023 18:00:47 +0000 Younger people move their arms more quickly than their older counterparts when they slip, helping them to regain their balance and prevent a fall 2409722-slower-arm-speed-may-be-why-older-people-fall-more-easily-after-a-slip|2409722 The mathematically perfect table size for solving any jigsaw puzzle https://www.newscientist.com/article/2409579-the-mathematically-perfect-table-size-for-solving-any-jigsaw-puzzle/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Wed, 27 Dec 2023 16:00:04 +0000 When choosing the perfectly sized table to do your jigsaw puzzle on, work out the area of the completed puzzle and multiply it by 1.73 2409579-the-mathematically-perfect-table-size-for-solving-any-jigsaw-puzzle|2409579 Will 2024 see the world finally turning away from fossil fuels? https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg26034712-300-will-2024-see-the-world-finally-turning-away-from-fossil-fuels/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Wed, 27 Dec 2023 15:00:00 +0000 A global agreement at the COP28 climate summit promised to begin "transitioning away" from fossil fuels, but will we see this start to happen in 2024? mg26034712-300-will-2024-see-the-world-finally-turning-away-from-fossil-fuels|2409530 Hurricane damage to forests could release huge amount of stored carbon https://www.newscientist.com/article/2408886-hurricane-damage-to-forests-could-release-huge-amount-of-stored-carbon/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Wed, 27 Dec 2023 13:00:49 +0000 A study modelling the impact of a major hurricane in New England suggests carbon-offsetting schemes are greatly underestimating the risks posed by storms 2408886-hurricane-damage-to-forests-could-release-huge-amount-of-stored-carbon|2408886 Artificial pain sensors could help robots avoid damaging themselves https://www.newscientist.com/article/2409277-artificial-pain-sensors-could-help-robots-avoid-damaging-themselves/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Wed, 27 Dec 2023 12:00:12 +0000 A system that detects forces and interprets which stimuli have the potential to cause harm could imbue robots with a sense akin to pain 2409277-artificial-pain-sensors-could-help-robots-avoid-damaging-themselves|2409277 2024 will see a new weight-loss drug that trumps Wegovy and Ozempic https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg26034712-000-2024-will-see-a-new-weight-loss-drug-that-trumps-wegovy-and-ozempic/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Wed, 27 Dec 2023 10:00:00 +0000 Recently approved in the US, the weight-loss drug Zepbound will reach more people in 2024, with research suggesting its effects trump those of the much talked-about Wegovy and Ozempic mg26034712-000-2024-will-see-a-new-weight-loss-drug-that-trumps-wegovy-and-ozempic|2409527 The spy balloon saga of 2023 inflated US-China political tensions https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg26034694-100-the-spy-balloon-saga-of-2023-inflated-us-china-political-tensions/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Wed, 13 Dec 2023 18:00:00 +0000 One of the year’s most unexpected controversies exploded after a US fighter jet shot down a Chinese balloon that drifted across North America – it also sparked fears over other unidentified flying objects mg26034694-100-the-spy-balloon-saga-of-2023-inflated-us-china-political-tensions|2407977 Probiotics helped reduce fatigue and memory loss from long covid https://www.newscientist.com/article/2409180-probiotics-helped-reduce-fatigue-and-memory-loss-from-long-covid/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Tue, 26 Dec 2023 12:00:24 +0000 A study involving more than 450 people found that a mixture of prebiotics and probiotics alleviated some symptoms of long covid when taken daily for six months 2409180-probiotics-helped-reduce-fatigue-and-memory-loss-from-long-covid|2409180 Monkeys in Thailand took up stone tools when covid-19 stopped tourism https://www.newscientist.com/article/2409075-monkeys-in-thailand-took-up-stone-tools-when-covid-19-stopped-tourism/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Tue, 26 Dec 2023 08:00:11 +0000 Long-tailed macaques on the island of Koh Ped appear to have learned a new way to forage when the pandemic put a stop to feeding by tourists 2409075-monkeys-in-thailand-took-up-stone-tools-when-covid-19-stopped-tourism|2409075 An ancient whale claimed the title of heaviest animal ever in 2023 https://www.newscientist.com/article/2405381-an-ancient-whale-claimed-the-title-of-heaviest-animal-ever-in-2023/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Mon, 25 Dec 2023 15:00:35 +0000 Perucetus colossus lived 39 million years ago and weighed in at between 85 and 340 tonnes, meaning it was probably larger than even blue whales. The discovery has inspired both fan art and music 2405381-an-ancient-whale-claimed-the-title-of-heaviest-animal-ever-in-2023|2405381 15 mind-bending scientific riddles to enjoy solving with your family https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg26034691-400-15-mind-bending-scientific-riddles-to-enjoy-solving-with-your-family/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Tue, 12 Dec 2023 16:00:00 +0000 In 2028, a crystallographer will join an abolitionist and a fire god. Where are they? If you enjoy stretching your mental muscle, try this and 14 other cryptic puzzles for size mg26034691-400-15-mind-bending-scientific-riddles-to-enjoy-solving-with-your-family|2407669 Dark stars may be waiting in a mirror universe for us to discover them https://www.newscientist.com/article/2408830-dark-stars-may-be-waiting-in-a-mirror-universe-for-us-to-discover-them/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Mon, 25 Dec 2023 12:00:10 +0000 Physicists have proposed that a mirror universe alongside our own might explain dark matter ­– and we might be able to see traces of its stars 2408830-dark-stars-may-be-waiting-in-a-mirror-universe-for-us-to-discover-them|2408830 Six of the most amazing space pictures from 2023 https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg26034694-200-six-of-the-most-amazing-space-pictures-from-2023/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Wed, 13 Dec 2023 18:00:00 +0000 This year saw an extraordinary number of awe-inspiring images of objects in space, thanks in part to the James Webb Space Telescope. Here are the ones that dazzled us most and why they are important mg26034694-200-six-of-the-most-amazing-space-pictures-from-2023|2407978 Decades-old mathematical mystery about the Game of Life finally solved https://www.newscientist.com/article/2407617-decades-old-mathematical-mystery-about-the-game-of-life-finally-solved/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Mon, 25 Dec 2023 08:00:33 +0000 A mathematical game governed by simple rules throws up patterns of seemingly infinite complexity – and now a question that has puzzled hobbyists for decades has a solution 2407617-decades-old-mathematical-mystery-about-the-game-of-life-finally-solved|2407617 Cancer in young people is rising and 2023 saw a plan to figure out why https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg26034694-000-cancer-in-young-people-is-rising-and-2023-saw-a-plan-to-figure-out-why/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Wed, 13 Dec 2023 18:00:00 +0000 Most people with cancer are over 50, but the past few decades have seen a rise in diagnoses for younger people. This year, the US National Cancer Institute and Cancer Research UK made finding out why one of their top priorities mg26034694-000-cancer-in-young-people-is-rising-and-2023-saw-a-plan-to-figure-out-why|2407976 The unlikely extremophiles lurking in your kitchen https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg26034692-000-the-unlikely-extremophiles-lurking-in-your-kitchen/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Tue, 12 Dec 2023 16:00:00 +0000 To discover new extreme-loving microbes, there’s no need to travel to the ends of the Earth. New Scientist goes in search of the unexpected inhabitants of your kitchen gadgets mg26034692-000-the-unlikely-extremophiles-lurking-in-your-kitchen|2407675 China started drilling ultra-deep holes in 2023 in a hunt for oil https://www.newscientist.com/article/2405911-china-started-drilling-ultra-deep-holes-in-2023-in-a-hunt-for-oil/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Sun, 24 Dec 2023 10:00:05 +0000 A drilling project in the Taklamakan desert is aiming to reach more than 11,000 metres below Earth’s surface as China explores the deep earth for resources 2405911-china-started-drilling-ultra-deep-holes-in-2023-in-a-hunt-for-oil|2405911 The best robot photos of 2023, from fashion shows to Hollywood strikes https://www.newscientist.com/article/2406622-the-best-robot-photos-of-2023-from-fashion-shows-to-hollywood-strikes/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Sat, 23 Dec 2023 15:02:08 +0000 This year, robots could be seen making drinks in cafes, performing at Paris Fashion Week and even joining screenwriters on the Hollywood picket line 2406622-the-best-robot-photos-of-2023-from-fashion-shows-to-hollywood-strikes|2406622 How to use 'flavour bridging' to cook a bizarre but tasty holiday meal https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg26034692-300-how-to-use-flavour-bridging-to-cook-a-bizarre-but-tasty-holiday-meal/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Tue, 12 Dec 2023 16:00:00 +0000 Scientists have discovered 'flavour bridges' are key to unlikely – but delicious – food combinations. We tested the idea by creating a festive meal like nothing you've tasted before mg26034692-300-how-to-use-flavour-bridging-to-cook-a-bizarre-but-tasty-holiday-meal|2407678 Vibrating pill may help with obesity by making your stomach feel full https://www.newscientist.com/article/2409208-vibrating-pill-may-help-with-obesity-by-making-your-stomach-feel-full/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Fri, 22 Dec 2023 19:00:24 +0000 Swallowing a pill fitted with a vibrating motor resulted in pigs eating less, suggesting a possible new approach for treating obesity 2409208-vibrating-pill-may-help-with-obesity-by-making-your-stomach-feel-full|2409208 Reindeer can chew their food and sleep at the same time https://www.newscientist.com/article/2409952-reindeer-can-chew-their-food-and-sleep-at-the-same-time/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Fri, 22 Dec 2023 16:00:51 +0000 The first study to capture brainwaves from reindeer shows that they take small naps throughout the day while chewing 2409952-reindeer-can-chew-their-food-and-sleep-at-the-same-time|2409952 NFTs died a slow, painful death in 2023 as most are now worthless https://www.newscientist.com/article/2406198-nfts-died-a-slow-painful-death-in-2023-as-most-are-now-worthless/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Fri, 22 Dec 2023 15:00:49 +0000 Non-fungible tokens promised to revolutionise the concept of ownership using the blockchain technology behind bitcoin, but the market seems to have all but collapsed 2406198-nfts-died-a-slow-painful-death-in-2023-as-most-are-now-worthless|2406198 Test your brain with this fiendish set of museum-themed puzzles https://www.newscientist.com/article/2407998-test-your-brain-with-this-fiendish-set-of-museum-themed-puzzles/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Tue, 12 Dec 2023 16:00:42 +0000 Work your way through the exhibits of a mysterious museum, solving brain-twisting puzzles as you go. Then add your answers together to find the overall solution 2407998-test-your-brain-with-this-fiendish-set-of-museum-themed-puzzles|2407998 Dead spacecraft are seeding the upper atmosphere with metal https://www.newscientist.com/article/2408674-dead-spacecraft-are-seeding-the-upper-atmosphere-with-metal/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Fri, 22 Dec 2023 14:00:55 +0000 The stratosphere seems to be full of aluminium particles and other metals that come from spacecraft burning up in the atmosphere, and those particles could mess up polar clouds 2408674-dead-spacecraft-are-seeding-the-upper-atmosphere-with-metal|2408674 Better weather forecasts could help billions adapt to climate change https://www.newscientist.com/article/2409711-better-weather-forecasts-could-help-billions-adapt-to-climate-change/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Fri, 22 Dec 2023 13:00:15 +0000 A worldwide collaboration among meteorology services is trying to fill in the huge gaps in weather observations in countries vulnerable to climate change 2409711-better-weather-forecasts-could-help-billions-adapt-to-climate-change|2409711 2023 saw a cautious hope for Alzheimer's treatment but doubts remain https://www.newscientist.com/article/2408994-2023-saw-a-cautious-hope-for-alzheimers-treatment-but-doubts-remain/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Fri, 22 Dec 2023 10:00:08 +0000 The US approved lecanemab to slow cognitive decline among people with early Alzheimer's, but not everyone is convinced the drug has that big of an impact – not to mention concerns over its safety and practicality 2408994-2023-saw-a-cautious-hope-for-alzheimers-treatment-but-doubts-remain|2408994 Sweater that mimics polar bear fur may keep you warm in extreme cold https://www.newscientist.com/article/2409980-sweater-that-mimics-polar-bear-fur-may-keep-you-warm-in-extreme-cold/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Thu, 21 Dec 2023 19:00:30 +0000 An artificial fibre that mimics polar bear fur has been made into a sweater that is said to be as warm as down feather but without its thickness, but not everyone is convinced by the researchers' claims 2409980-sweater-that-mimics-polar-bear-fur-may-keep-you-warm-in-extreme-cold|2409980 Liquid magnet propellers could be a safer way to power boats https://www.newscientist.com/article/2409313-liquid-magnet-propellers-could-be-a-safer-way-to-power-boats/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Thu, 21 Dec 2023 13:00:12 +0000 Sharp metal propellers can harm wildlife, so an alternative made using ferrofluid could be a better approach, if it can be tweaked to work at higher speeds 2409313-liquid-magnet-propellers-could-be-a-safer-way-to-power-boats|2409313 The microbes that give cheddar cheese its distinct flavour https://www.newscientist.com/article/2410032-the-microbes-that-give-cheddar-cheese-its-distinct-flavour/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Thu, 21 Dec 2023 16:00:52 +0000 Cheddar cheese's distinct but often subtle flavour comes down to interactions between different bacteria, which cheese-makers could utilise to create a specific taste 2410032-the-microbes-that-give-cheddar-cheese-its-distinct-flavour|2410032 NASA sends cat video 31 million kilometres through space https://www.newscientist.com/article/2409483-nasa-sends-cat-video-31-million-kilometres-through-space/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Thu, 21 Dec 2023 15:33:04 +0000 The record for long-distance laser messaging has been broken with a high-resolution video of Taters the cat chasing a red laser dot – it was transmitted over 31 million kilometres 2409483-nasa-sends-cat-video-31-million-kilometres-through-space|2409483 The best animal photos of 2023, from hyenas to southern stingrays https://www.newscientist.com/article/2408573-the-best-animal-photos-of-2023-from-hyenas-to-southern-stingrays/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Thu, 21 Dec 2023 15:00:59 +0000 Our favourite wildlife shots of the year feature an inquisitive hyena pup, a colourful sea slug and a fruit bat being swabbed for science 2408573-the-best-animal-photos-of-2023-from-hyenas-to-southern-stingrays|2408573 Girls’ brains aged unusually rapidly during the covid-19 pandemic https://www.newscientist.com/article/2407727-girls-brains-aged-unusually-rapidly-during-the-covid-19-pandemic/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Thu, 21 Dec 2023 12:00:21 +0000 Adolescents’ brains underwent accelerated ageing during the covid-19 pandemic, and the effect was more pronounced in girls than in boys 2407727-girls-brains-aged-unusually-rapidly-during-the-covid-19-pandemic|2407727 AI discovers new class of antibiotics to kill drug-resistant bacteria https://www.newscientist.com/article/2409706-ai-discovers-new-class-of-antibiotics-to-kill-drug-resistant-bacteria/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Wed, 20 Dec 2023 16:00:56 +0000 Artificial intelligence helped screen millions of chemical compounds to find a class of antibiotics capable of killing two different types of drug-resistant bacteria 2409706-ai-discovers-new-class-of-antibiotics-to-kill-drug-resistant-bacteria|2409706 Covid-19 'emergency' ended in 2023 but the virus still lingers https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg26034690-300-covid-19-emergency-ended-in-2023-but-the-virus-still-lingers/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Wed, 13 Dec 2023 18:00:00 +0000 On 5 May, the World Health Organization declared that the coronavirus was no longer classified as a "public health emergency of international concern", its highest alert level, but the virus is still evolving mg26034690-300-covid-19-emergency-ended-in-2023-but-the-virus-still-lingers|2407649 Quantum physicists just got more certain about quantum uncertainty https://www.newscientist.com/article/2409067-quantum-physicists-just-got-more-certain-about-quantum-uncertainty/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Thu, 21 Dec 2023 08:00:44 +0000 An extension of Heisenberg's uncertainty principle, which places limits on how precisely you can measure the properties of quantum objects, has found that it really isn't possible to cheat the laws of quantum physics 2409067-quantum-physicists-just-got-more-certain-about-quantum-uncertainty|2409067 Strange alien worlds suggest Earth could survive the death of the sun https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg26034691-800-strange-alien-worlds-suggest-earth-could-survive-the-death-of-the-sun/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Tue, 12 Dec 2023 16:00:00 +0000 We thought there was no chance our world could survive the fiery death of the sun in another 5 billion years. Now sightings of strange "orphan planets" might force us to rewrite the story mg26034691-800-strange-alien-worlds-suggest-earth-could-survive-the-death-of-the-sun|2407673 The science of why spending time in nature is just so good for us https://www.newscientist.com/article/2408955-the-science-of-why-spending-time-in-nature-is-just-so-good-for-us/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Wed, 20 Dec 2023 20:32:22 +0000 Getting outside to garden or walk in a park is good for your body – it’s exercise and you can get some vitamin D from the sun – but it’s also important for your self-esteem and mood 2408955-the-science-of-why-spending-time-in-nature-is-just-so-good-for-us|2408955 Vegans who avoid ultra-processed food risk being protein deficient https://www.newscientist.com/article/2409581-vegans-who-avoid-ultra-processed-food-risk-being-protein-deficient/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Wed, 20 Dec 2023 20:00:46 +0000 Two relatively recent dietary trends – veganism and concerns about highly processed foods – may be in conflict with each other 2409581-vegans-who-avoid-ultra-processed-food-risk-being-protein-deficient|2409581 The development of embryos may be less shaped by genes than we thought https://www.newscientist.com/article/2409123-the-development-of-embryos-may-be-less-shaped-by-genes-than-we-thought/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Wed, 20 Dec 2023 18:00:43 +0000 The chemical reactions in cells appear to shape an embryo's development, possibly overriding the effect of genes 2409123-the-development-of-embryos-may-be-less-shaped-by-genes-than-we-thought|2409123 The laws of physics were broken in 2023 - by sperm https://www.newscientist.com/article/2408702-the-laws-of-physics-were-broken-in-2023-by-sperm/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Wed, 20 Dec 2023 12:00:53 +0000 New Scientist's most popular story of the year was about the discovery that sperm break Isaac Newton's third law of motion 2408702-the-laws-of-physics-were-broken-in-2023-by-sperm|2408702 Wegovy and Ozempic made 2023 a revolutionary year for weight loss https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg26034690-600-wegovy-and-ozempic-made-2023-a-revolutionary-year-for-weight-loss/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Wed, 13 Dec 2023 18:00:00 +0000 The success of semaglutide mimic drugs in helping people lose weight saw demand rocket in 2023, with manufacturers struggling to keep up - something that almost never happens mg26034690-600-wegovy-and-ozempic-made-2023-a-revolutionary-year-for-weight-loss|2407652 Famous quantum experiment could be shrunk to the size of a single atom https://www.newscientist.com/article/2409196-famous-quantum-experiment-could-be-shrunk-to-the-size-of-a-single-atom/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Wed, 20 Dec 2023 13:00:28 +0000 A single, extremely cold atom could play the role of two slits in the classic double-slit experiment from quantum physics, something that was previously thought to be impossible 2409196-famous-quantum-experiment-could-be-shrunk-to-the-size-of-a-single-atom|2409196 How bad is vaping for your health? We’re finally getting answers https://www.newscientist.com/article/2406514-how-bad-is-vaping-for-your-health-were-finally-getting-answers/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Wed, 06 Dec 2023 14:00:00 +0000 As more of us take up vaping and concerns rise about the long-term effects, we now have enough data to get a grip on the health impact – and how it compares to smoking 2406514-how-bad-is-vaping-for-your-health-were-finally-getting-answers|2406514 Mathematicians discovered the ultimate bathroom tile in 2023 https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg26034690-400-mathematicians-discovered-the-ultimate-bathroom-tile-in-2023/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Wed, 13 Dec 2023 18:00:00 +0000 After decades of searching, mathematicians discovered a single shape that can cover a surface without forming repeating patterns, launching a small industry of "aperiodic monotile" merchandise mg26034690-400-mathematicians-discovered-the-ultimate-bathroom-tile-in-2023|2407650 Science and technology's newest words and what they tell us about 2023 https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg26034692-200-science-and-technologys-newest-words-and-what-they-tell-us-about-2023/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Tue, 12 Dec 2023 16:00:00 +0000 From ageotypes to marsification and noctalgia, here are nine words that entered our vocabulary this year, expressing fresh concepts, emerging trends and hard-to-articulate emotions mg26034692-200-science-and-technologys-newest-words-and-what-they-tell-us-about-2023|2407677 AI trained on millions of life stories can predict risk of early death https://www.newscientist.com/article/2408480-ai-trained-on-millions-of-life-stories-can-predict-risk-of-early-death/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Mon, 18 Dec 2023 16:00:13 +0000 A model trained on 6 million people’s health, employment and financial records can predict death more accurately than tools used by the insurance industry 2408480-ai-trained-on-millions-of-life-stories-can-predict-risk-of-early-death|2408480 Snowflakes fall to the ground according to a universal pattern https://www.newscientist.com/article/2409457-snowflakes-fall-to-the-ground-according-to-a-universal-pattern/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Tue, 19 Dec 2023 16:00:25 +0000 After analysing the way half a million snowflakes fell during mountain storms in Utah, researchers found surprising similarities 2409457-snowflakes-fall-to-the-ground-according-to-a-universal-pattern|2409457 Elon Musk spent 2023 shaping Twitter – sorry, X – in his own image https://www.newscientist.com/article/2406208-elon-musk-spent-2023-shaping-twitter-sorry-x-in-his-own-image/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Tue, 19 Dec 2023 15:00:54 +0000 After taking control of Twitter in 2022, Elon Musk hired a new CEO to replace himself, all while continuing to transform the social media platform into X 2406208-elon-musk-spent-2023-shaping-twitter-sorry-x-in-his-own-image|2406208 Make these four classic cocktails and become a fluid dynamics expert https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg26034691-900-make-these-four-classic-cocktails-and-become-a-fluid-dynamics-expert/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Tue, 12 Dec 2023 16:00:00 +0000 Delicious drinks can be the perfect miniature laboratory for demonstrating the weird physics of fluids. Here are four of the best examples and how you can try them at home mg26034691-900-make-these-four-classic-cocktails-and-become-a-fluid-dynamics-expert|2407674 Google wants to solve tricky physics problems with quantum computers https://www.newscientist.com/article/2409147-google-wants-to-solve-tricky-physics-problems-with-quantum-computers/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Tue, 19 Dec 2023 08:00:31 +0000 Quantum computers could become more useful now researchers at Google have designed an algorithm that can translate complex physical problems into the language of quantum physics 2409147-google-wants-to-solve-tricky-physics-problems-with-quantum-computers|2409147 LK-99 superconductor mania swept the internet for a few weeks in 2023 https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg26034690-200-lk-99-superconductor-mania-swept-the-internet-for-a-few-weeks-in-2023/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Wed, 13 Dec 2023 18:00:00 +0000 The promise of a material that could revolutionise the way we use electricity captured imaginations on social media, which also helped researchers quickly determine that LK-99 wasn't what it seemed mg26034690-200-lk-99-superconductor-mania-swept-the-internet-for-a-few-weeks-in-2023|2407648 ‘Clinical-grade’ AI stress detector doesn't work, study suggests https://www.newscientist.com/article/2408873-clinical-grade-ai-stress-detector-doesnt-work-study-suggests/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Tue, 19 Dec 2023 11:00:45 +0000 An AI-powered test that claimed to be “clinical grade” listens for signs of stress in people’s voices. But it provides inconsistent results when tested on the same person twice, according to a study 2408873-clinical-grade-ai-stress-detector-doesnt-work-study-suggests|2408873 Stunning JWST image of Uranus shows 13 rings and nine moons https://www.newscientist.com/article/2409389-stunning-jwst-image-of-uranus-shows-13-rings-and-nine-moons/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Mon, 18 Dec 2023 17:13:53 +0000 Rings, moons, storms and a bright polar cap can be seen in this breathtaking new image of Uranus from the James Webb Space Telescope 2409389-stunning-jwst-image-of-uranus-shows-13-rings-and-nine-moons|2409389 The best photos of the natural world in 2023 https://www.newscientist.com/article/2408532-the-best-photos-of-the-natural-world-in-2023/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Tue, 19 Dec 2023 10:00:16 +0000 A fiery volcanic eruption, a flower preserved in amber and a ‘superbloom’ of wildflowers feature in New Scientist’s selection of stunning nature images from the past year 2408532-the-best-photos-of-the-natural-world-in-2023|2408532 The 12 best science documentaries of 2023 https://www.newscientist.com/article/2409280-the-12-best-science-documentaries-of-2023/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Tue, 19 Dec 2023 09:30:33 +0000 From David Attenborough on dinosaurs to Michael J. Fox’s insight into living with Parkinson’s disease, our TV columnist Bethan Ackerley picks the year’s best science documentaries 2409280-the-12-best-science-documentaries-of-2023|2409280 Chimpanzees recognise photos of friends they haven't seen for decades https://www.newscientist.com/article/2409344-chimpanzees-recognise-photos-of-friends-they-havent-seen-for-decades/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Mon, 18 Dec 2023 20:00:13 +0000 Bonobos and chimps in zoos remember individuals they lived with more than 20 years ago, showing a long-term social memory comparable to that of humans 2409344-chimpanzees-recognise-photos-of-friends-they-havent-seen-for-decades|2409344 We may have found a crater on Jupiter’s moon Io for the first time https://www.newscientist.com/article/2409202-we-may-have-found-a-crater-on-jupiters-moon-io-for-the-first-time/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Mon, 18 Dec 2023 18:00:23 +0000 Jupiter’s moon Io is so volcanically active that any impact craters are rapidly covered up, but an amateur astronomer may have finally spotted the first one ever seen there 2409202-we-may-have-found-a-crater-on-jupiters-moon-io-for-the-first-time|2409202 Inside the secretive cannabis lab that makes futuristic weed https://www.newscientist.com/article/2409175-inside-the-secretive-cannabis-lab-that-makes-futuristic-weed/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home Mon, 18 Dec 2023 17:00:49 +0000 In the final episode of our three-part podcast series, Christie Taylor peers into efforts to grow cannabis compounds in labs and explores the problems with pot’s environmental footprint 2409175-inside-the-secretive-cannabis-lab-that-makes-futuristic-weed|2409175