New issue: The Dark Universe

Normal matter only accounts for one-fifth of all the physical stuff in the Universe. The remaining 80 per cent? That's what we call dark matter. We've never seen it, and it's also totally intangible. So how do we know it's there? And yet, something is providing the gravity needed to prevent galaxies from tearing themselves apart. Do cracks in the Standard Model hint at the arrival of a new physics? In this issue, a leading cosmologist investigates how we can finally make sense of the dark Universe, and why the next few years may see a crucial breakthrough in our understanding of dark matter.

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Holly Spanner

Published: February 22, 2024 at 8:00 am
The cover of BBC Science Focus magazine, issue 402

The science of manifestation

Being optimistic, believing in your own capabilities, practising affirmations, being grateful and setting clear goals can bring genuine benefits. But is manifestation pure pseudoscience, or is there something to it? We look at how the WOOP approach can actively help you navigate the journey to achieving your dreams.

Volcanic eruptions

After three years of fiery eruptions, experts are now confident that Iceland's Reykjanes Peninsula has entered a new phase of volcanic activity.

The counterintuitive cosmos

The world isn't what it seems. In this feature, we explore how science has exposed the fallacies and misconceived ideas of the heavens and Earth throughout history.

Planet Nine

Something strange is happening beyond Neptune, and it might change everything we think we know about the Solar System. Do orbital oddities reveal the existence of an undiscovered planet in our celestial neighbourhood? Or could it be something else?

Plus

  • The biggest innovations from CES 2024: Each year, Vegas plays host to the Consumer Electronics Show, where the world's tech manufacturers assemble to unveil their latest developments. From transparent tech to home robots and the latest cooking gadgets, tech expert Alex Hughes takes a look at some of the highlights.
  • Potholes: Britain's roads are cratered with 750,000 potholes. They can cause significant damage to vehicles and pose a danger to motorists, cyclists and pedestrians. But bacteria and self-healing asphalt could make them smooth again.
  • The first lunar base: Head to the lunar south pole and take a look inside what could be the first human settlement on the Moon. Initially intended to accommodate 144 people, the modular design of the 'Lunar Habitat Masterplan' will expand and evolve with its inhabitants.

Issue 402 on sale 22 February 2024

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Holly Spanner

Staff Writer, BBC Science Focus

Holly is the Staff Writer for BBC Science Focus and looks after the popular Q&A section. She holds an MSc (distinction) in Geoscience (Space and Climate Physics) from UCL, and specialises in astronomy and earth sciences. Before joining Our Media, she worked as a geoenvironmental consultant and engineer, informing on ground risk and remediation in the north of England, while hunting for exoplanets in her spare time. Alongside this, she was regional editor of a popular theatre website for nine years, and has a solid background in curating and developing content for the digital space. Holly is also an artist and illustrator, and regular contributor to the craft website, Gathered. She has previously worked with the RSPB, English Heritage, Disney, Pilot and Brother, as well as on BBC Good Food magazine, Home Style magazine, and Papercraft inspirations magazine. She enjoys photography and has a sustained interest in antiques.
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