Findings could open up possibility the universe will end in a reverse big bang or ‘big crunch’, say cosmologists Explainer: Is dark energy destined to dominate the universe? Dark energy, the mysterious force powering the expansion of the universe, appears to be weakening, according to a survey that could “overthrow”...
Psychologists in touch with Antarctic base after assault allegation, South Africa confirms
Ministers also investigating sexual harassment claim at country’s isolated Sanae IV research station Psychologists are in “constant” contact with a South African science team isolated for months at a base in Antarctica after physical assault and sexual harassment allegations were made, a government minister has said. The environment minister, Dion...
Pioneering Devon food forest garden at risk after landowner serves notice
Thousands sign petition to save ‘vital’ Dartington Estate project that teaches agroforestry methods Even at this time of year when most of the trees are still bare, there is a feeling of abundance in Martin Crawford’s forest garden, close to the banks of the River Dart in Devon. Crawford, who...
Thursday briefing: What do Elon Musk and Donald Trump want with space?
In today’s newsletter: When ISS astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore touched down in a SpaceX capsule they entered a politically charged atmosphere Good morning. Last June, astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore embarked on a 25-hour journey to the International Space Station (ISS) aboard Boeing’s CST-100 Starliner, as part...
Scientists hail ‘avalanche of discoveries’ from Euclid space telescope
Data from European Space Agency’s mission has allowed researchers to create detailed catalogue of 380,000 galaxies Astronomers are predicting an “avalanche of discoveries” after the first major release of observations from a European space telescope built to study the mysterious dark matter and dark energy that comprise the bulk of...
Cat owners asked to share pets’ quirks for genetic study
Scientists hope project will shed light on how cats’ health and behaviour are influenced by their genetics Cat owners are being asked share their pet’s quirky traits and even post researchers their fur in an effort to shed light on how cats’ health and behaviour are influenced by their genetics....
Plantwatch: how flowers keep themselves and their insect visitors cosy
Translucent greenhouses and petals that close in poor light encourage flying pollinators to stop by for longer It is tough being a flower in the chill air of springtime when pollinating insects are reluctant to fly, but some flowers turn into solar heaters to warm up visiting insects and increase...
Dust storms rage across New Mexico as transit authorities close major highways
Dust storms are raging across much of New Mexico
West Virginia couple convicted of abusing adopted children is set for sentencing
A West Virginia couple is set for sentencing for mistreating their adopted children
Electric vehicle owners don’t buy gas. States look for other ways to pay for roads and bridges.
States with aggressive climate goals like Oregon are facing a conundrum