Latest Science News
Scientists update global rules for announcing possible extraterrestrial intelligence
An international committee has revised its decades-old guidance for handling potential detection of intelligent alien life, aiming to reduce misinformation, panic, and confusion in the social-media and AI era. The update comes as public interest rises around alleged signals and a new film about alien visitation, increasing the need for clearer communication protocols.
NASA’s experimental PExT terminal proves spacecraft can switch between multiple satellite networks
NASA says its Polylingual Experimental Terminal successfully communicated through both government and commercial relay systems, marking a major step toward more flexible space communications. The mission has entered an extended phase through April 2027 to test additional capabilities and partnerships after completing its primary objectives.
AI-designed broad coronavirus vaccine shows early but modest immune response
Researchers reported that a vaccine designed with artificial intelligence produced a modest effect on the immune system in a small early trial. The result is an important proof-of-concept for using AI to accelerate vaccine design, but the study remains preliminary and does not yet demonstrate broad clinical protection.
Astronomers directly observe rotation in a protoplanetary disk around AB Aurigae
A team from CNRS and the University of Bordeaux reported a direct observation of rotation in a protoplanetary disk around the young star AB Aurigae. The finding helps scientists better understand how planets form within swirling disks of gas and dust around young stars.
Researchers detect cloud cycles on distant exoplanets
Astronomers have developed a technique to identify cloud cycles on exoplanets, giving scientists a new way to study alien atmospheres. The method could improve future searches for weather patterns and habitability indicators on worlds beyond the Solar System.
Magnetic weather systems discovered on distant exoplanets
Astronomers studying exoplanet wind speeds found weather systems driven by magnetic fields rather than Earth-like hydrodynamic processes. The work offers some of the strongest evidence yet that exoplanets can host magnetic fields shaping their atmospheres.
ESA selects two new Earth-science missions
The European Space Agency chose two missions, Hibidis and SOVA-S, to address major questions in Earth environmental science. The selection reflects ongoing international efforts to improve monitoring of the planet’s climate and environmental systems.
NASA confirms near-light-speed particles around Jupiter
New observations from Jupiter have directly confirmed the process behind near-light-speed particle acceleration in the planet’s environment. The result provides clues to the origins of cosmic rays and strengthens understanding of energetic particle physics in the Solar System.
World Meteorological Organization warns of a potentially strong El Niño
The WMO said there is an 80% chance of El Niño forming before September and a 90% chance before November, warning the world to prepare for a possibly strong event. Forecasts suggest it could become one of the strongest on record, with major implications for global temperatures and weather extremes.
UN warns AI could soon use more water than humanity drinks
A UN warning highlighted the rapid growth in resource demand from artificial intelligence, including potentially huge water use for data-center cooling. The warning adds to broader concerns about the environmental footprint of fast-expanding AI infrastructure.
Five astronauts told to shelter during leak on the space station
Reuters reported that five astronauts aboard the International Space Station were told to take shelter and prepare for possible evacuation while a Russian crew worked to fix a leak. The incident underscores the operational risks of maintaining a crewed orbital laboratory.
NASA extends its multiple-satellite-network communications demonstration
NASA is expanding the PExT mission beyond its initial goals to explore new capabilities for resilient space communications. The agency says the technology could help future spacecraft move data across different satellite systems more reliably.