Latest Science News
AI Discovers Hidden Signal of Liquid-Like Ion Flow in Solid-State Batteries
Researchers used machine learning to predict Raman spectra, identifying a low-frequency signal indicating liquid-like ion motion in solid crystals like Na3SbS4. This breakthrough speeds discovery of superionic materials for safer, denser solid-state batteries. The method simulates spectra at realistic temperatures with near-ab initio accuracy, reducing computational costs dramatically.
Published in AI for Science journal.
Scientists Identify Protein Triggering Diabetic Blindness
UCL researchers found LRG1 protein constricts retinal blood vessels early in diabetic retinopathy, reducing oxygen and causing damage. Blocking LRG1 in mice prevented initial harm, with a targeting drug advancing to clinical trials. The therapy could protect vision preemptively and aid advanced cases unresponsive to current treatments.
Experts hail it as a potential sight-saver for millions with diabetes.
Large AI Models Accelerate Catalyst Discovery Before Synthesis
Tohoku University review shows AI with MLIPs and LLMs predicts catalyst performance using vast databases, slashing trial-and-error time for fuel cells and clean energy. Universal MLIPs simulate atomic interactions rapidly and accurately. Combined with LLMs for literature analysis, it enables closed-loop platforms linking prediction, synthesis, and testing.
Approach extends to batteries and hydrogen storage.
Ancient Deep-Sea Corals Discovered at Lord Howe Rise Seamount
Greenpeace research revealed fragile ancient corals at a previously unsurveyed South Pacific seamount, proving it's a vulnerable marine ecosystem. This status should ban destructive bottom trawling per international rules. Evidence submitted to SPRFMO amid New Zealand's bycatch increase proposal, following 2024 trawling pause.
Highlights high seas ecological significance.
NOAA Launches SOLAR-1 for Continuous Space Weather Monitoring
NOAA's Space Weather Follow On-Lagrange 1, now SOLAR-1, launched in 2025 with Compact Coronagraph-2 for early warnings on coronal mass ejections from the sun. Provides operational alerts for Earth impacts. Part of 2025 breakthroughs enhancing space weather predictions.
New Tech Probes Inside Raging Hurricanes with Drones
NOAA tested Black Swift S0 drones from Hurricane Hunter aircraft, gathering record data from hard-to-reach cyclone areas in 2025. Advances tropical cyclone research and forecasting. Supports emerging uncrewed systems for extreme weather.
AI and Satellites Track Endangered Right Whales from Space
NOAA's Geospatial AI for Animals uses satellite tech and AI to detect North Atlantic right whales (under 380 left) for conservation. Monitors marine mammals remotely. Key 2025 advancement in wildlife protection.
Autonomous Vehicle Detects Harmful Algal Blooms Offshore
NOAA deployed solar-powered Seasats Lightfish off Washington coast to sample algal blooms before they affect shores, reducing costs and increasing frequency over ships. Targets neurotoxin-producing phytoplankton. Travels 100 nautical miles per charge.
Cell-Free Cartilage Scaffold Regrows Bone in Animal Studies
Lund University created an off-the-shelf scaffold from decellularized cartilage that guides body to repair large bone defects without immune rejection. Stable, reproducible production for clinical use. Next steps: human trials and scaled manufacturing.
Led by Paul Bourgine.
Quantum Computers to Train AI for Accurate Chemistry Simulations
IonQ and Microsoft propose quantum devices generate precise electron data to train AI models, boosting predictions for molecules in materials and drug discovery. Hybrid approach leverages quantum accuracy with classical speed. Example: AI screened 32M battery materials to 800 candidates in a week.
Accelerates catalysts and electrolytes before fault-tolerant quantum scales.
Switzerland Breakthrough in Hydrovoltaics Generates Electricity from Water and Light
Swiss researchers unveiled hydrovoltaics, a method harnessing water and light for electricity production, opening new energy pathways. Major advance potentially revolutionizing sustainable power generation.
Reported March 7, 2026.