Science news

Daily science news with breaking updates on the latest scientific research, interesting technology breakthroughs, new discoveries and how today's science headlines affect you. Brought to you from the team behind BBC Science Focus magazine.

Stress during pregnancy could make girls' IQs higher but boys' lower

New research says too much exposure to a stress hormone in pregnancy could lower children’s IQs – but girls may be more immune to its effects.
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Auroras tonight: How to see stunning Northern Lights sparked by giant solar storm

A severe solar storm is set to create a spectacular light show tonight and over the weekend.
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Earthshine tonight: How to see May's otherworldly Moon event

All you need to know about the mesmerising lunar phenomenon.
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Here’s how ultra-processed foods actually change your lifespan - major new study

Ultra-processed food is probably bad for you – but a 30-year study suggests it may not be as harmful as previously thought.
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More bad weather could cause earthquake ‘swarms’ globally, suggests new study

Recent research suggests that climate such as snow and rain could influence seismic activity.
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Vaccine for eczema now possible, say scientists

By treating eczema-based flareups in children, a team of researchers from Trinity College aim to solve this common issue.
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Inside the race to stop a deadly new strain of sexually transmitted monkeypox

New data suggests the virulent strain is now being sexually transmitted.
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New ‘map of consciousness’ could help to wake up coma patients

Scientists may finally have cracked the code of what makes us experience consciousness.
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Origin of Earth's 'second moon' discovered

Our ‘second moon’ probably came from our first, but an asteroid sampling mission could put this theory to the test.
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Bird flu has now jumped to cows - and their milk. Could humans be next?

The WHO chief scientist says the spread is of “enormous concern”.
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Wildlife conservation can work, says major new study. But Chris Packham warns ‘time is running out’

A large review of conservation studies has found that efforts have made a real difference in protecting the planet’s biological diversity – but others say we haven’t done enough.
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NASA’s bold new ‘solar sail’ mission could unlock interstellar travel

Next stop: Alpha Centauri?
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Monumentally massive explosion spotted on mysterious dead star

A satellite in the right place at the right time has captured an important cosmic sight.
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Inside the bold project to find your menopausal age – and reverse it

Scientists could soon unveil the genetic secrets of your reproductive lifespan and fertility.
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‘Giant fish lizard’ bigger than megalodon could be largest marine reptile ever discovered

Step aside, meg: Scientists have uncovered the biggest marine reptile ever, and it’s a prehistoric beast.
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'Alien aurora’ may have been spotted on nearby failed star

This nearby brown dwarf doesn't shine with fusion light, but may have found a way to put on a dazzling display of its own.
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This new ‘atlas of ageing’ could help keep your muscles younger for longer

Creaks and groans may ail your bones, but a new muscle atlas could halt your ageing.
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Here’s how the Moon actually impacts your menstrual cycle - new study

Put the lunar cycle diary down, ladies: new research says the calendar is already within you.
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Earthshine tonight: How to see April's stunning Moon event

This April, the Moon is the gift that keeps on giving.
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Solar eclipse: The 20 best photos from 2024’s celestial spectacle

The most stunning images from the cosmic event of the century.
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The Solar System will die a grisly death – and astronomers now think they know how

White dwarf stars can’t help but gobble up passing objects – including, eventually, the planets in our own Solar System.
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