Earth may be trapped inside a giant void in space, say scientists
Discovering we're living alone could solve one of the biggest problems in space science
Your brain’s biological age can predict how long you’ll live, study finds
A new blood test could reveal how fast your organs are ageing – and what that means for your health
Alien civilisations may be able to spy on us. Here's how
Radar used to track aeroplanes could also be broadcasting our location to nearby extraterrestrials
Fungi could be conscious. Here's what that means
New research on fungi suggests they could be demonstrating some form of intelligence, but not all experts are convinced.
New issue: Chill out, Earth
The last 10 years on Earth have been the hottest since records began. To make matters worse, 2024 was the first calendar year that was, on average, 1.5°C warmer than the pre-industrial era. This will come as no surprise to anyone who follows the news. Summer is now synonymous with heatwaves, droughts and wildfires. But the numbers were confirmed at the start of the year in a report published by the World Meteorological Organization – a ringing alarm for those who can influence society’s carbon emissions.
There were smidgens of hope in the report. One of the factors at play was El Niño, an enormous weather pattern that was particularly active over the last two years, functioning like bellows to a scorching planet. Plus, CO2 emissions, despite reaching a record level in 2024, have plateaued over the last decade. Though that modest achievement, most analysts would agree, won’t be enough. The carbon needle needs to move the other way, and fast.
Trail-blazing climate action is needed, but exactly what form that action could take is one of the questions being asked by ARIA, the UK’s Advanced Research and Invention Agency.
In this issue, we explore the ambitious projects aiming to cool the planet.
Here's what a 3,000-year-old mummy actually smells like
Scientists have discovered what mummies smell like and it's surprisingly not too bad.
This 'explosive' squirting cucumber can launch seeds at nearly 30mph
Nature's most explosive cucumber fires out its seeds to give them their best shot in life
Alpha males are the exception, not the rule, bold new study claims
Clear-cut male dominance is surprisingly rare in our animal relatives – and many females hold more sway than expected
Scientists uncover (very) creepy reason humans first kept pet cats
Our relationship with our feline friends may not have gotten off to the best start…
The 5 biggest women's health myths that need to end
The healthcare system wasn’t built for women. Here’s why that needs to change
Top reads
101 random fun facts that will blow your mind
Our collection of the best interesting trivia covers animals, biology, geography, space and much more.
Could hidden dehydration be the cause of your daytime fatigue?
Feeling tired? Your afternoon dip could be low-chronic dehydration
How to beat anxiety: 8 simple, concrete strategies to take control of your mind
Whether in the short- or long-term, there are lots of different techniques that can help you deal with anxiety.
Science news
Today, Earth is spinning faster than usual, and scientists are baffled
Earth's spin has mysteriously been speeding up for years
Mysterious 'surge' under Earth crust could reshape world map, study claims
The pulsing will eventually rip Africa apart and create a new ocean
Orcas caught 'tongue kissing' in the wild for the first time
They may be the apex predators of the sea, but orcas are total softies when it comes to those they care about
The US military’s carbon footprint is mind-bogglingly big. Here’s how they could cut it
The world’s largest fighting force is also one of its biggest emitters
Future technology
US meat could soon be gene-edited. Here’s what that means
Genetically modified pork could be hogging space on your plate next year. But is it truly safe, or something to squeal about?
Here's what we still don't know about microplastics in your body
Sorry, Orlando
An airbag for your head? This inventor thinks inflatable helmets are the future of cycle safety
Commuting safely by bike means finding something to do with your helmet when you reach your destination. A British company thinks you should deflate it
What would a fusion energy disaster look like?
A nuclear fusion disaster would be nothing like a nuclear fission disaster
Instant Genius Podcast
From the creators of BBC Science Focus, Instant Genius is a bite-sized masterclass in podcast form. With each episode, a different world-leading expert will help you understand the latest ideas and research in the world of science and tech. We want to make you an expert in everything.
Instant Genius Podcast | Do you have synaesthesia? Why some of us can taste words
Do you experience sounds or music visually as certain shapes? Or 'hear' colours?
Instant Genius Podcast | Why you’re not actually addicted to your phone
Not all social media is unhealthy – here's how to rethink your relationship to it.
Instant Genius Podcast | How personalised medicine is about to change healthcare forever
The new power of precision treatments, explained.
Your questions answered
Our team of scientists, doctors and experts answer your burning questions - send yours to questions@sciencefocus.com
How can I look after my knees as I get older
Here's how to improve the strength of your knees, to reduce stiffness, aches and pains as you get older
Do the tides of different seas affect each other?
Thanks to its local geography, this coastal town is affected by tidal forces from two different seas
Are negative-calorie foods real?
Often touted as having zero, or even 'negative-calories', celery does indeed contain calories so it isn't a magical weight-loss food.
Are receipts really covered in chemicals?
Should you be concerned by 'forever chemicals' on your shopping receipts?
Why you're probably stroking your cat completely wrong (and how to do it right)
Fun fact: your cat probably hates the way you're currently petting them.
Which animal has the sharpest teeth?
This sharp-toothed creature was similar to an eel and lived 500 to 200 million years ago
Science photo galleries
Nature like you've never seen it: 18 jaw-dropping aerial photos
Our planet, like you've never seen it before
This year’s most powerful scientific experiments, in 14 images
The annual Wellcome Trust image award shortlist showcases the most powerful images of global health challenges
From 9/11 to Hurricane Katrina: 15 unforgettable photos of Earth from space
As its mission ends, we look back at Landsat 7's most stunning and revealing images – a visual record of a world in constant change
Simply jaw-dropping: The best 31 wildlife photos of 2025 (so far)
From playful polar bears to a kingfisher with a very cold bottom.
The 15 weirdest pictures of nature's smallest animals
Take a look at some of the most stunning insects from around the world.
The 20 best and weirdest nature images of 2025 (so far)
Featuring hidden bears, fighting beetles and show-off spiders.