Science news

A dementia vaccine could be real, and some of us have taken it without knowing
Getting vaccinated against shingles could protect you from getting dementia, or slow the progression of the disease, says a new study

Most people with high-cholesterol gene don't know they have it, warns study
Researchers issue new warning over overlooked high cholesterol condition

A mysterious glow surrounding the Milky Way could be first evidence of dark matter
The hunt for the Universe’s most enigmatic material may be over

3,000-year-old map of the Universe discovered at ancient Mayan site
An ancient Maya structure was likely built around communal astronomical observations – but the identity of a mysterious woman is still unknown
Future technology

I zapped my vagus nerve every day for a month to fight anxiety. Here's what happened
Can a wearable neuromodulation device that delivers small electric shocks banish anxiety?

The 25 most powerful ideas of the 21st century (so far), picked by the world’s top thinkers
We asked the world's foremost minds to highlight some of the game-changing scientific breakthroughs shaping our world since the year 2000

This magnet-powered micro-robot could soon swim through your bloodstream
It's steered using magnetics, like a tiny remote-controlled bubble zooming through your bloodstream

7 ways to keep your personal data safe, according to cybersecurity experts
The Online Safety Act has thrust VPNs into the spotlight, but what are the best ways to protect your identity online without relying on one?
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

Will we ever know how many people died in 9/11?
Health conditions related to the terrorist attacks in New York City are only now making themselves known, more than two decades later

This 'phantom' jellyfish is bigger than a bus – and keeps lurking in shallow waters
Meet the giant phantom jellyfish. It's over a metre (3ft) wide and has four ribbony arms that trail behind for up to 10 metres (33ft)

How stable is my personality?
Various studies have looked at how personality changes over our lives, so how stable is your personality, really?

Was the sea always blue?
Several billion years ago, tiny little creatures may have changed the colour of the ocean

Does my internet speed affect my health?
Bytes don't spread diseases, but they do seem to be linked with your health

Could a virus change my DNA?
Viruses make up around eight per cent of your DNA
Science photo galleries

30 astonishing close-up images that make the smallest things look epic
Life in stunning detail

31 jaw-dropping space photos that will change how you see the Universe
The strange, stunning and sometimes surreal beauty of our cosmos

15 of the world's weirdest-ever inventions
From the V-shaped bed designed by an exercise legend, to a robot that feeds you tomatoes

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

Top 10 most dangerous roads in the world 2025
Fasten your seatbelts and hang on for dear life.