Science

Latest Science News

đź“…December 17, 2025 at 1:00 PM
2025's top science news features gene editing breakthroughs, quantum computing advances, NASA missions, exoplanet discoveries, and medical innovations shaping medicine and space exploration.
1

Milky Way Twin Galaxy Discovered

Astronomers found a galaxy resembling the Milky Way with symmetrical arms and star formation 20-30 times faster than ours.Source 1 This 'beads-on-a-string' structure could be a cosmic twin to our home galaxy.Source 1 The discovery reshapes understanding of galactic evolution.Source 1

2

First CRISPR Gene Editing in Infant Success

Doctors at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia used CRISPR to correct a mutation in nine-month-old KJ Muldoon, preventing ammonia buildup and organ failure.Source 1 The procedure replaced a single DNA base, marking a medical milestone.Source 1 This advances gene therapy for rare disorders.Source 1

3

Microsoft Unveils Topological Quantum Processing Unit

Microsoft launched the world's first QPU powered by a Topological Core using Majorana particles in February 2025.Source 1 Scalable to a million qubits while compact, it boosts quantum computing power.Source 1 This promises revolutions in computation.Source 1

4

NASA's Bennu Samples Reveal Life-Building Molecules

Asteroid Bennu samples contain sugars, amino acids, and other organics essential for life.Source 2 This supports theories on life's cosmic origins.Source 2 Analysis advances astrobiology research.Source 2

5

Mayo Clinic Uncovers Lung Regeneration Switch

Researchers identified a molecular switch directing cells to repair tissue or fight infection, aiding chronic lung disease therapies.Source 3 Part of the Genesis initiative for regenerative medicine.Source 3 This could restore balance in diseased lungs.Source 3

6

Molecular Breast Imaging Doubles Cancer Detection

Adding MBI to 3D mammograms improves cancer detection in dense breasts over twofold.Source 3 Focuses on lethal, fast-growing invasive tumors for earlier intervention.Source 3 Enhances screening for nearly half of U.S. women.Source 3

7

Little Foot Fossil Proposes New Hominin Species

The near-complete Australopithecus 'Little Foot' skeleton from South Africa may represent an unknown human ancestor.Source 4 Study in American Journal of Biological Anthropology challenges prior classifications.Source 4 Debate continues among anthropologists.Source 4

8

BU Metamaterial Speeds Up MRI Scans

Boston University's low-cost wearable device, named a Time invention of 2025, accelerates and improves MRI accuracy using copper and plastic.Source 5 Honored by Fast Company for world-changing ideas.Source 5 Makes scans cheaper and faster.Source 5

9

Hidden Companion Star Explains Hot Dust Survival

University of Arizona team found a companion star in Kappa Tucanae A causing persistent hot dust via interferometry.Source 7 Highest-contrast detection with ESO's MATISSE instrument.Source 7 Aids future exoplanet hunting by reducing coronagraphic leakage.Source 7

10

Ariane 6 Rocket Successfully Launches

Europe's Ariane 6 rocket launched successfully, marking a key space access milestone.Source 4 Part of today's biggest science news alongside dinosaur footprints and MAVEN updates.Source 4 Boosts independent orbital capabilities.Source 4

11

Perovskite Solar Cells Exceed 30% Efficiency

Multi-layer perovskite solar cells with dipolar molecules surpass 30% efficiency.Source 6 Promising for advanced photovoltaics.Source 6 Advances clean energy technology.Source 6

12

Giant 3D Map Catalogs 2.75 Billion Buildings

New database maps nearly every building worldwide, aiding urban planning, climate monitoring, and disaster risk assessment.Source 6 Enables tracking of corruption and environmental changes.Source 6 Transforms global data analysis.Source 6