This is the most effective way to quit vaping, according to Oxford scientists
Want to kick the habit? A review of research into vaping could help.
This ‘internet of animals’ could unlock the secrets of nature’s greatest superpowers
Scientists are using electronic tags and satellites to track wild animals and build a data network.
It's time we rethink fibroids, the silent epidemic affecting 70% of women
Despite their prevalence, awareness of these potentially harmful growths is shockingly low.
5 simple ways to prime your microbiome for easier weight loss
You are what they eat, it turns out. So, here are five ways you can feed your gut’s microbes for effective weight loss.
New issue: The biggest breakthroughs of the century
On the eve of a quarter century, it seems like a good time to pause and take a look back (and forwards) at the science that matters. Of course, it’s all important, but it’s fun to wind the clock back and argue about the breakthroughs that have really blown our minds since the year 2000.
We asked some of the world’s leading scientists and science commentators for their take on the biggest breakthroughs of the 21st century (so far), including the Higgs boson particle, the Mars Curiosity rover, psychedelic therapy, HPV and HIV vaccines, programmable chemical robots, the James Webb Space Telescope... and more.
Was Amelia Earhart or her plane ever found?
There's been a possible breakthrough in the search for her lost plane.
Major immune system breakthrough could mean needle-less vaccines
Your skin may have its own immune system, new research suggests.
What is Hector the Convector?
A unique storm that is punctual with its time, Hector the Convector is one of life's weird occurrences.
Humans are close to getting X-ray vision. It’s an even worse idea than it sounds
Scientists can see a massive flaw in the tech.
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.
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.
44 cool gadgets: Our pick of the best new tech for 2025
Welcome to our regularly updated curation of the coolest, smartest kit money can buy.
Science news
Incredible new Pompeii discovery reveals the lives of the ancient super-rich
They took saunas to the next level.
Here's the best way to prevent depression in retirement: new study
Several factors – including your income and marital status – can influence depression in later life.
The 10 weirdest news stories of the 2024
2024 was a year filled with unbelievable news, outrageous headlines and downright mind-blowing science. Let’s go through our favourites.
20 ways to easily boost your health, according to 2024’s biggest studies
Major findings could help everything from ageing to allergies.
Future technology
The 10 weirdest gadgets millionaires are set to buy this year
The biggest tech event of the year has come and gone, here are our picks for the weirdest gadgets announced.
How close are we to mass-producing humanoid robots?
Will we ever see a future that matches science-fiction, filled with mass-produced humanoid robots? It's unlikely.
What's the most secret weapon we know about?
Countries around the world have stores and stores of weapons, but what is the biggest secret we know about?
The 10 best (and weirdest) tech trends of 2024
2024 was a big year for tech. While we bettered humanity through tools, gadgets and high-tech advancement, just as many innovations left us fretting for the future.
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
Could I really land a plane in an emergency?
Need to emergency land a plane? It just might be possible, even without training.
The strange science of how fog forms
Fog occurs when air saturated with water vapour is cooled suddenly, and there are several different ways this can happen.
How spicy is too spicy?
Even for the biggest spice fans, some foods are going to be too much, causing serious health problems.
This very goofy fish is a certified freak, according to science
The ocean sunfish is a funny-looking guy. But that isn't even the weirdest thing about him.
What's the strongest material in the universe?
Out in space, one rather unique material stands supreme as the strongest around.
How do whales sing under the sea?
Whales are known for their musical talents, but how can that be possible under water?
Science photo galleries
15 of the most mind-blowing photos taken this century (so far)
From space to forest fires and escaping cheetahs, these are the best images of 2024.
The 10 best optical illusions that will blow your mind
Optical illusions are fun and intriguing, and we don't always know why they happen. Here are some of our favourites.
The 12 fastest animals in the world
Catch us if you can! From cheetahs to falcons, these speedsters rule the animal kingdom.
The top 10 fastest jets in the world 2025
Come and take a look at our gallery of the top ten fastest jets in the world. All while singing 'Highway to the danger zone'...
Top 10 fastest planes in the world 2025
Want to fly in speed and style? Then take a look at our list of the fastest passenger planes in the world.
Top 10 largest rainforests in the world 2025
Rainforests are often referred to as the 'Lungs of the world'. But which is the biggest?