How to spot ‘dark empaths’, the dangerous psychopaths and narcissists who feel empathy
The view of a compassionless psychopath is outdated. In fact, new research shows that those with dark personality traits are much more complicated than that.
This fossilised poop could finally reveal why dinosaurs ruled the planet
It wasn’t meat, but plant-based diets that helped dinosaurs rise to the top.
Earth’s largest cities are sinking into the ocean. Here’s what that means
From Manila to New York, the world’s urban centres are sinking at a disturbing rate and it’s not solely the result of rising sea levels. So what is to blame?
Why do batteries drain faster in cold weather?
Brrrrrilliant, my battery died.
New issue: Reboot your immune system
The older I’ve gotten the more I’ve come to know my body’s immune system. In my twenties, a cold would hit me like a train. Fevers would burn like a furnace, I would sleep like the dead and then, in a few days, it’d be over. These days everything’s drawn out. First, come the aches, then the hot, dry eyes, and finally an overwhelming weariness. But what if we could turn back the clock on our immune system? It's an appealing thought, and as it turns out, one that might not just be wishful thinking. Grab a copy of our November issue to find out what the latest science says about sprucing up your body’s natural defences and the best thing you can do to give your immune system a helping hand.
What caused the Kentucky Meat Shower?
It's raining meat! Hallelujah!
Here's the first-ever picture of a star outside our galaxy
Star Wars may not be the only way for us to see a galaxy far, far away.
Why some kitchen utensils could be poisoning you
Black plastic utensils, plastic chopping boards, and non-stick pans could be releasing harmful chemicals into your food.
Major volcanic eruptions detected on Moon's far side
The Moon’s mysterious far side has yielded a new secret: volcanoes erupted here for over a billion years.
Here’s what your body looks like under a really powerful microscope
These epic images could become a go-to guide for diagnosing and treating diseases.
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 2024
Welcome to our regularly updated curation of the coolest, smartest kit money can buy.
Science news
We may finally know how your brain got so big
Your brain uses bucketloads of energy and scientists suggest the gut helps the body keep up with the demand.
Scientists may have finally solved a key weight loss mystery
We may now be a step closer to explaining the ‘yo-yo’ effect seen in weight loss.
Why you should spend more time online if you’re over 50: new study
Being online could help you to connect more with others.
A common texting habit could make your messages seem insincere
While most texters admitted to using this writing shortcut, they weren’t too pleased to be on the receiving end of it.
Future technology
The 9 weirdest robots in the world right now
Robots are advancing rapidly. But as they learn more and more skills, they just keep getting creepier.
10 of the world's worst-ever inventions
From the electric tricycle to parachute coat, these are some of the most poorly received devices developed around the globe.
I bought the strangest tech from TikTok Shop. It was a disaster
TikTok Shop offers suspiciously cheap tech. But does it actually work? We found out.
Top 18 fastest cars in the world: land speed record breakers
Here are the drivers and cars that have broken the world land speed record throughout history.
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
Why do I self-sabotage so much?
Actions which hurt your chance of success can come from low self-esteem – here are a few tips to break the habit.
Does cold weather cause the common cold?
Wrapping up warm won't save you from a sniffle and cough, unfortunately.
How do I stop taking things personally?
Try not to take it to heart.
Science photo galleries
The 10 weirdest nature pictures of 2024 (so far)
Celebrating the beauty of nature with the Close-up Photography of the Year awards.
Top 11 most dangerous cities in the US
What is the most dangerous city in America? With the worst crime rates, we’ve gathered the cities that top the list in one place.
Top 10 most venomous spiders in the world
11 of the best nature photos in the world 2024
We highlight some of the amazing winning images from this year's British Ecology Society's annual photography prize
The Universe as you have never seen it – Winners of Astronomy Photographer of the Year 2024
Royal Observatory Greenwich announces the amazing winners of Astronomy Photographer of the Year 2024.
Top 10 of the world's biggest (and deadliest) volcanic eruptions
Nothing is more terrifying than a huge volcanic eruption filling the sky.