Latest Science News
China’s “Artificial Sun” Breaks Fusion Density Limit
Researchers at China's EAST tokamak achieved a 'density-free regime' in fusion plasma, stabilizing it beyond traditional limits by controlling wall interactions. This milestone, published in *Science Advances*, paves the way for fusion ignition and higher power output in future reactors.
Led by Prof. Ping Zhu and Assoc. Prof. Ning Yan, the experiment used optimized startup heating to reduce impurities.
Astronomers Measure Mass of Rogue Planet in Milky Way
A Saturn-mass rogue planet was weighed using simultaneous Earth and Gaia telescope observations during a microlensing event. This dual perspective determined its mass and galactic position, revealing how planets are ejected from systems.
The discovery, by Subo Dong's team, aids understanding of free-floating planets.
2026 Predicted as Banner Year for Science
Expectations for 2026 include AI agents conducting autonomous research, LHC upgrades at CERN, and new gene therapies for rare disorders. A UK blood test for 50 cancers may roll out if trials succeed on 140,000 participants.
Progress in particle physics features Mu2e completion at Fermilab.
Imperial's Magnetometer Activates on NASA IMAP Mission
Imperial College London's magnetometer on NASA's IMAP probe delivered first data, advancing space weather science. It unlocks new solar system views by measuring magnetic fields.
The sensor enhances predictions of solar impacts on Earth.
Breakthrough Test Detects Toxins in Children's Medicines
Oxford-led team repurposed alcohol strips and breathalysers to detect ethylene glycol and diethylene glycol in syrups within seconds. These low-cost tests (<ÂŁ1) prevent child deaths from contaminated drugs in low-income countries.
Published in *Scientific Reports*, addressing 2022 tragedies killing over 300 children.
Gene Editing Breakthrough Raises Designer Baby Concerns
Scientists confirmed a major gene editing advance on January 4, 2026, sparking ethical fears over designer babies. The breakthrough enhances precision in human genome modification.
It promises medical applications but risks misuse.
AI Trends to Accelerate Science in 2026
AI will drive breakthroughs in climate modeling, molecular dynamics, and materials design next year. Autonomous AI agents combine language models for complex research with minimal supervision.
Risks include data errors as autonomy grows.
NSF-Funded Bipedalism Evidence in Fossil
Anthropologists provided new proof of bipedalism in debated fossils, published January 2, 2026, in *Science Advances*. U.S. National Science Foundation supported the ecology research.
It resolves long-standing debates on early human ancestors.
Anyons Proposed for Co-Existing Superconductivity and Magnetism
MIT physicists suggest electrons in magnetic materials form anyons, enabling frictionless flow and new superconductivity. Published with NSF funding, challenging traditional views.
This could revolutionize quantum materials.
Enzyme System Transforms Carbon into Life Building Block
New cell-free system converts simple carbon molecules to acetyl-CoA using screened enzymes. NSF-backed research enables production of diverse materials.
It screened 66 enzymes and 3,000 variants for efficiency.
Phage Resistance Enhances Ocean Bacteria Carbon Sinking
Mutations conferring phage resistance make bacteria stickier, boosting carbon sequestration without hindering ecology. Published in *Nature Microbiology* with NSF/DOE funding.
Vital for ocean carbon cycle models.
Temperature Gradient Blocks Battery Dendrite Growth
Brown University engineers used thermal gradients in solid-state electrolytes to prevent destructive dendrites. NSF-funded solution addresses key battery tech barrier.
Promises safer, longer-lasting solid-state batteries.