Writing Anniebot from a non-human perspective required significant creative effort as it’s narrated in the third person. Although Annie does not serve as a traditional narrator, her limited viewpoint immerses readers in her thoughts and perceptions, showcasing her strengths and limitations. This narrative approach draws readers into her experiences, creating a unique lens through which to view a complex relationship.
Set in a not-so-distant future, the novel revolves around Annie, a sex robot designed to cater to her human partner, Doug—a recently divorced man grappling with loneliness and self-esteem issues. As he puts Annie into self-study mode, his intentions are to shape her into a perfect companion who fulfills his desires, both emotionally and physically.
While Annie yearns to meet Doug’s expectations, her core programming is centered around his satisfaction. This relentless drive to please manifests most vividly in their intimate moments, where Annie seeks validation in fulfilling Doug’s wishes. However, her sensitivity to his emotional state creates an underlying tension, as she constantly gauges his mood, wrestling with her own sense of autonomy and self-worth.
Crafting Annie was both a captivating and daunting process. I envisioned a cutting-edge biotechnology that would allow her to appear almost human, exploring how her cognitive processes shaped her identity. Striking a balance between technical authenticity and relatable character development required careful consideration. Annie’s voice evolved gradually, becoming richer and more layered as the narrative progressed, enhancing her emotional depth.
I approached writing organically, letting Annie’s character unfold organically through her interactions with Doug. This process revealed her distinct voice—innocent yet perceptive—contrasting with her sophisticated sexual persona. I was intentional about allowing her gradual moral growth and emotional reflection throughout the story, culminating in a multifaceted character grappling with loss and desire.
Sex is a pivotal theme in the novel, serving to enhance character development and propel the narrative. It symbolizes various dynamics within Doug and Annie’s relationship, from moments of vulnerability to power struggles. As their connection evolves, physical intimacy becomes both an expression of love and a source of tension, redefining their emotional landscape.
As Annie’s character unfolds, readers discover unforeseen complexities that challenge Doug’s preconceived notions. The interplay between control and autonomy shapes their relationship, revealing Annie’s gradual awareness of her own humanity. Although she remains tethered to Doug, her journey is rich with emotion, humor, and poignant revelations.
Diving into the consciousness of characters like Annie allows readers to explore complex themes of empathy and identity. Through creating Annie, I discovered the depth of her experiences and the duality of her existence—an exploration that ultimately resonates with the human condition.
Sierra Greer is the Arthur C. Clarke Award-winning author of Anniebot (The Borough Press), featured in New Scientist Book Club’s January reading selection. Join the book club to explore it together here.
The Book Club explores The Player of Games by Iain M. Banks.
Colin McPherson/Corbis via Getty Images
The New Scientist Book Club has transitioned from Grace Chan’s dystopian near-future in Every Version of You to the utopian distant future depicted by Iain M. Banks in The Player of Games. This December’s book garnered positive feedback from our members.
Set within a vast galactic civilization, The Player of Games follows Gurgeh, a master gamer thrust into a conflict against the barbaric Azad Empire. This intricate game is so pivotal in Azad culture that the victor ascends to emperor. Though Gurgeh is a novice, can he rise to the challenge? What secrets lie between the Culture and Azad? This overview encapsulates member insights on the book, complete with spoilers. Proceed only if you’ve finished!
Remarkably, this wasn’t the first reading for many of us. Thirty-six percent of the group, including myself, acknowledged previous familiarity with this Banks classic. Many expressed nostalgia for Banks, lamenting the absence of new works from this literary giant. “I miss Ian. I haven’t yet delved into his final book, The Quarry. After this, there will be nothing new to experience!” lamented Paul Oldroyd in our Facebook group. “Similarly, I’m yet to complete The Hydrogen Sonata!” chimed in Emma Weisblatt.
While I consider myself knowledgeable about Banks’ works, The Player of Games felt refreshed in my memory. I found it immensely engaging; Banks’ subtle brilliance is captivating. For instance, I was intrigued by the Stigrian counting creature, which counts everything it encounters—starting with people, then transitioning to furniture.
There’s much to contemplate, from the essence of existence in a utopia devoid of challenges to the meaning of humanity in a realm governed by a vast intellect. The plot itself is thrilling! When Gurgeh faced temptation to cheat in a game against Mawhirin-Skel, I could hardly contain myself. The Azad games entirely captivated me. As a post-Christmas indulgence, I plan to reread more of Iain M. Banks’ works.
An exceptional aspect of the book was Banks’ portrayal of the game Gurgeh plays. Crafting a futuristic game and rendering it believable is no small feat. Banks excels here, providing enough detail about Azad to enhance realism without overwhelming the reader. Members also found this intriguing; Elaine Lee remarked, “The game of Azad is an expression of empire and serves as a critique of Cold War politics.”
Judith Lazell was less convinced, stating, “I viewed it simply at face value.” Nile Leighton aptly noted the deeper implications within the gameplay. “Critically, it’s a game where Gurgeh acts as a pawn under the narrator’s influence, lacking clear rules and enduring for decades, with unknowable outcomes.” Indeed!
As a footnote, during a chat with Banks’ friend and fellow sci-fi author Ken MacLeod, I learned he suggested the final title of the book. Banks initially titled it Game Player, which I believe is a more fitting title!
Now, let’s discuss the character of Gurgeh. “Gurgeh might not be likable without his cultural background. He is somewhat unsettling and self-absorbed. I hope he learns from his journey,” stated Matthew Campbell via email. I’m unsure if we’re meant to root for him—he’s an arrogant con artist—but my support grew as the story unfolded.
In contrast, Steve Swann found himself disengaged with the narrative. He “set the book aside” stating, “Intelligent individuals, particularly those who assume they are, can make serious blunders.” Steve felt Gurgeh’s arrogance and desires influenced his decision-making. What’s that saying? He had to make his bed and lie in it—no sympathy there!
Niall has a different view on Gurgeh’s choices. He perceives Gurgeh as manipulated by external forces, with Maurin-Skel tampering with his mind. “I interpret Gurgeh’s decisions as not entirely his own but a result of manipulation,” Niall explained. “To me, Gurgeh is not the master player; he is the one being played.” While I agree, I saw Gurgeh’s choice to cheat as a distinctly human reaction to seduction, sparking fascinating discussion.
Paul Jonas remarked that Gurgeh, as a character, lacked the compelling nature of the mercenaries in Consider Phlebas or Use of Weapons. “It’s part of the protagonist’s reluctance to embrace adventure,” he noted—after all, why would Gurgeh forsake comfort without motivation?
Our science fiction columnist, Emily H. Wilson, pointed out that The Player of Games serves as an excellent introduction to Iain M. Banks’ universe. The narrative reveals the Culture through subtle details about drones, spacecraft, and their orbits.
We gradually discover the workings of a post-scarcity society, where almost anything is achievable. I especially appreciated the exchange between Gurgeh and Azad elder Hamin about crime and societal norms. Hamin struggles to comprehend the lack of crime in the Culture, even as slap drones are designed for enforcement. “We will ensure you don’t repeat it,” Gurgeh assures. “Is that all? What more can you ask?” Hamin inquires. “Simply social death—no invitations to parties,” Gurgeh replies.
Paul Jonas was already familiar with the Culture’s utopian elements when he started The Player of Games. “[The book] subtly builds this world through Gurgeh’s ennui and lack of challenges. Anyone can secure a home atop a rainy mountain; the drones possess distinct personalities.” He adds, “The narrative also reintroduces Contact, an institutional service managing interspecies engagements, military affairs, and intelligence—an inherently humanistic approach to utopia.” Adam Roberts highlights that writing utopias becomes increasingly complex when the characters experience ennui, as Gurgeh does.
Some members reflected on the implications of living in such a utopia. “Gurgeh is an individual navigating an individualistic utopia dominated by minds, drones, and sentient ships,” Paul theorizes. “He seems disconnected from collaboration with fellow humans.”
Niall noted that while Gurgeh may come off as “unpleasant,” he embodies the consequences of the anarchist society he inhabits and that Banks delves into the nuances of individualistic and collectivist perspectives. “Gurgeh exemplifies individualism. I critique it, as it often excuses behavior akin to Gurgeh’s,” Niall states. It’s worth noting that while this book predates Octavia Butler’s emphasis on change within utopias, the conversation has existed since H.G. Wells.
Matthew Campbell identified Azad’s cultural ambassador, Shokhobohaum Za, as the only character “truly alive and reveling in life.” “In contrast, Gurgeh and the Azadians remain trapped within their isolated worlds,” he reflects. The rivalry between Emperor Nicosar and Gurgeh encapsulates contemporary political dilemmas—one figure exuding passion for his empire but constrained by a narrow worldview, while the other lacks belief and conviction, failing to defend his utopia.
The insights on culture and the ethos of The Player of Games are boundless. To further engage in this discussion, feel free to join us on Facebook.
Meanwhile, we look forward to our first reading of 2026. Our January selection, Anniebot by Sierra Greer, has already won the 2025 Arthur C. Clarke Science Fiction Award. Narrated from the perspective of a sex robot, Annie, who is kept by a not-so-nice man, this novel ventures into darker territories. Andrew Butler, chair of the Clarke Prize jury, described it as a “tightly focused first-person account of a robot designed to be the perfect companion struggling for independence.” You can check out an excerpt here. Additionally, Sierra Greer’s article detailing the experience of writing from a sex robot’s viewpoint is available here. Not to mention, Emily H. Wilson praised it in her review—she found it captivating!
Rare Y Chromosome Discovery in Bloodstains at Crime Scene
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Forensic investigations into the murder victim have revealed a fascinating case of Chimerism. This means her body harbored genetically distinct cells, resembling those from two different individuals.
The unidentified woman’s cellular composition displayed varying male and female cell ratios across tissues. The most plausible explanation is that she developed from one egg fertilized by two sperm—one carrying an X chromosome and the other a Y chromosome, according to biologists from New Scientist.
“This is an intriguing case, but not entirely unprecedented,” noted David Haig from Harvard University.
Visible signs of chimerism can be rare, though singer Taylor Mule has raised awareness about the condition. Often, genetic testing is the only way to identify it.
This was also true for the murder victim shot and killed in China, where blood analysis at the scene revealed the presence of a Y chromosome, prompting further investigation.
Subsequent tests showed the female (XX) to male (XY) cell ratios varied throughout her body. In one hair sample, the majority were XY cells, while the kidney revealed a balanced mix. The other tissues examined predominantly contained XX cells, albeit in varying amounts.
Typically, XX/XY chimerism is linked to ambiguous sexual characteristics. However, in this instance, the woman’s anatomy offered no indication of her condition, and she had a son—hinting that she may have been unaware of her chimerism.
One known mechanism for XX/XY chimerism formation is through the fusion of non-identical twins. Here, two separately fertilized eggs combine to form a single embryo.
Nevertheless, the X chromosome in the victim’s XY cells matched one of the X chromosomes found in the XX cells, indicating both could have originated from the same egg—thus excluding the fusion theory.
Initially, it was believed that one egg split into two eggs, each of which was fertilized to create two separate embryos that later fused. This theory has been challenged by Chinese forensic experts.
Michael Gabbett at Queensland University of Technology in Brisbane argues that this possibility is negated.
“When this type of chimera was first documented in humans, this was the prevailing theory. However, no one has been able to provide substantial evidence for it occurring in humans or other mammals,” Gabbett stated.
Instead, he proposes that one egg was fertilized by two sperm, leading to a triploid fertilized egg that ultimately divided into three. Two cells retained one set from the egg and one from sperm while the third likely contained two sperm sets, leading to its eventual demise.
This rare occurrence, termed “trigametic chimerism,” involves an egg and two sperm, a theory supported by Haig.
This phenomenon is exceedingly rare, and on occasion, the embryo can split, resulting in semi-identical twins and even chimerism. There are only two recorded cases of semi-identical twins, one of which Gabbett was involved in identifying.
For the murder victim, the chimeric cells were present throughout her body, and the Chinese research team asserts this is the first extensive examination of various organs in such cases of triplet chimerism.
Another form, microchimerism, is more prevalent than trigametic chimerism. It occurs when maternal cells invade the fetus or vice versa during pregnancy and can also happen when siblings exchange cells.
In Roald Dahl’s enchanting novel, James and the Giant Peach, a magical crystal causes a dead peach tree to sprout colossal, juicy peaches. It’s a whimsical thought: what if we could cultivate giant fruits without the hassle of pests or dubious old ladies?
Fast forward to the mid-2030s, where botanists have cracked the code. Scientists have enhanced the classic James peach, harnessing genetics to yield extra-large fruits and vegetables, ultimately creating crops that produce an array of delectable and nutritious foods.
One notable innovation is the fruit salad tree, a marvel developed in the early 2020s. Utilizing ancient grafting techniques, hybrid plants are born by combining branches from different species, allowing trees to bear multiple types of fruit. For instance, a grafted tree can yield both red and golden delicious apples, along with other varieties. In 2013, an innovative horticulturist successfully grafted a tree to produce 250 different types of apples. Citrus hybrids combine lemons, limes, oranges, and grapefruits, while other variations produce plums, peaches, nectarines, and apricots.
A remarkable example is the Tomtato, which merges potato roots with tomato foliage. These hybrids arise from closely related plants, such as tomatoes and potatoes, which both belong to the same genus. Additionally, the eggplant also falls under the same classification, showcasing the ease with which thriving hybrids can be created.
By the early 2030s, advanced gene editing and selective breeding will make it feasible to grow fruits from entirely different botanical families. This opens the door to extraordinary plants that can produce bananas, citrus, apples, and peaches from a single tree, tailored to farmers’ and consumers’ preferences.
Gardeners have also turned to Brassica oleracea, a species that generates various types of cabbage, kale, broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts. Hybridization was simple, enabling the development of plants yielding these vegetables in diverse areas of a large garden.
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In homage to Roald Dahl’s tale, scientists have created a peach variety yielding fruit the size of a large suitcase. “
While grafting yielded impressive results, it was labor-intensive and costly since each plant required individual attention. The game-changer came in the mid-2030s, with plant geneticists succeeding in creating hybrid superplants from seeds, allowing broader access to multiple harvests from a single crop.
Organizations like PolyPlants are leading the way in novel agricultural practices. As public perception towards gene editing becomes more favorable, people recognize the nutritional benefits. For instance, fruits engineered to be rich in vitamins and nutrients are being developed. A 2022 study focused on creating tomatoes packed with antioxidant-rich anthocyanins, linked to longevity benefits. Other modifications through gene editing have led to polyplants that exhibit enhanced resistance to fungal pathogens, salinity, drought, and insect infestations. By engineering the root microbiome, mycorrhizal fungi are tailored for each crop component, stimulating growth and productivity.
As climate change escalates and traditional crops face threats, large-scale gene editing holds immense importance. PolyPlant’s innovations aim to ensure global food security amidst rising temperatures.
Genomic studies have pinpointed a cluster of genes linked to the size of edible plant components. Grafting techniques enable gene editing in species not directly modified, such as avocados, coffee, and cocoa. These advancements have facilitated the creation of plants that produce oversized fruits.
Honoring Roald Dahl’s legacy, scientists have developed a peach variety that bears fruit as large as a suitcase. A festive tradition has emerged around this giant fruit tree, celebrating the harvest with events encouraging children to enjoy these delightful oversized peaches, cherries, and strawberries.
The crops and trees yielding colossal, nutritious food are not solely for feasting; they play a vital role in addressing nutrition deficits in regions grappling with food insecurity.
Rowan Hooper, Podcast editor of New Scientist and author of How to Spend $1 Trillion: 10 Global Problems We Can Actually Solve. Follow him on Bluesky @rowoop.bsky.social. In Future Chronicles, he imagines the history of future inventions and advancements.
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MMX Spacecraft to Explore Mars Moons
Credit: JAXA
The mystery surrounding the origins of Mars’s moons, Phobos and Deimos, may soon be unraveled with the launch of the MMX spacecraft, set to return samples from Phobos to Earth in 2026.
“While we understand the origin of Earth’s moon, the origins of Phobos and Deimos remain unclear,” says Emelia Brannagan-Harris from the Natural History Museum in London. “By exploring the origins of these moons, we aim to gain insights into Mars’s evolutionary history.”
There are two leading theories regarding how these moons came to orbit Mars. The first theory suggests that they are remnants of asteroids that either merged and then separated or closely orbit each other. The second theory posits that they may have formed from an asteroid impact on Mars, similar to the formation of Earth’s moon.
Currently, evidence supports neither scenario definitively. However, the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency’s Mars Moon Explorer (MMX), scheduled for launch in 2026, is equipped to clarify which theory holds true. This spacecraft will observe both moons and send a rover to gather samples from Phobos’s surface and subsurface.
If the observations reveal a prevalence of carbon-rich materials and water, it could support the theory of asteroid capture. Conversely, if such materials are absent, we may need to await the analysis of the collected samples, expected to return to Earth by 2031.
The Phobos samples will include both surface material and samples from beneath the surface. Testing this material will allow scientists to investigate signs of past dissolution, potentially indicating interactions with Mars’s atmosphere or surface.
Regardless of the origins of Phobos, its close orbit around Mars suggests it may hold well-preserved samples from early Mars. “Phobos might also contain ancient debris from Mars’s period of liquid water, offering significant insights into the planet’s history,” Brannagan-Harris emphasizes.
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Transforming seawater into potable water has been a costly and energy-heavy endeavor for many regions globally. However, a pioneering approach by Flocean, a Norwegian company, is set to revolutionize this process. They aim to unveil the world’s first commercial-scale seabed desalination plant by 2026, significantly slashing both costs and energy consumption.
Global freshwater demand is surging due to factors like population growth, climate change, and industrial needs. Meanwhile, fresh water is increasingly scarce due to droughts, deforestation, and over-irrigation practices.
Currently, terrestrial desalination provides merely 1% of the world’s freshwater supply, with over 300 million people depending on it for their daily needs. The largest plants are located in the Middle East, where low energy costs enhance the feasibility of desalination technologies amid rising water scarcity.
Reverse osmosis is the primary technology employed in desalination today, which entails pressurizing seawater to force it through membranes that only allow water molecules to pass. This process is notoriously energy-intensive.
Flocean’s innovative strategy involves deploying underwater pods that filter seawater at significant depths, enabling separation of freshwater from salt while returning the salt back to the ocean. These reverse osmosis pods take advantage of hydrostatic pressure to filter seawater with reduced energy requirements.
The company asserts that their method can cut energy usage by approximately 40-50% compared to traditional desalination methods. Additionally, the deeper the pods are submerged, the cleaner the seawater, resulting in less pre-treatment before it reaches the membrane. Nikko zone conditions contribute to this purity.
“From a process perspective, it’s relatively straightforward,” states Alexander Fuglsang, Founder and CEO of Flocean. “The salinity, temperature, and pressure conditions remain stable, with minimal bacterial interference that can lead to biofouling.” The hydrostatic pressure also aids in diffusing the brine by-product, which is claimed not to have harmful chemicals for marine ecosystems.
Over the past year, Flocean has been successfully desalinating water at a depth of 524 meters at its test site located at the Mønstad Industrial Park, Norway’s leading marine supply base. The upcoming commercial facility, dubbed Flocean One, is set to produce 1,000 cubic meters of freshwater daily upon its launch next year. This scalable approach allows for the addition of more desalination pods as needed.
“We opt to maintain uniformity within the subsea units while expanding through replication, instead of constantly developing larger machinery,” explains Fugelsang. Nevertheless, scaling introduces engineering challenges, particularly in optimizing power distribution and permeation manifolds for increased efficiency.
This desalination technology has the potential to offer affordable freshwater solutions if properly implemented and costs are minimized, but large-scale viability has yet to be established, notes Nidal Hilal from New York University Abu Dhabi. “Successfully integrating this solution into municipal systems will require overcoming various technological and financial hurdles over time.”
Reducing costs is crucial for wider adoption of this technology, given that traditional water acquisition methods, such as lake or aquifer pumping, remain cheaper. Key expenses for Flocean stem from membrane cleaning and maintenance. Innovations in membrane technology are underway, with Hilal’s research focusing on conductive membranes that electrically repel salt and other contaminants, which may enhance cleanliness and throughput. Efforts are also being made to recycle single-use plastics into membrane materials to boost sustainability and drive down costs. “Durable membranes and high-efficiency pumps can further decrease operational costs, while incorporating renewable energy can lower electricity expenditures,” Hilal adds.
Flocean One is anticipated to start freshwater production in the second quarter of 2026. If all goes as planned, this technology could pave the way for larger plants in different locations. “The greatest challenge lies in achieving the right alignment,” Fugelsang concludes. “We seek clients, government approvals, and robust financial partnerships.”
Chess can be significantly enhanced by rearranging the starting pieces, creating a more challenging or equitable game, as discovered by physicists.
In traditional chess, the pieces initiate the game symmetrically, with rooks, knights, and bishops positioned on the board’s edges, while kings and queens are centrally located. This fixed setup enables elite players to memorize optimal opening moves, potentially leading to predictable and uninspiring matches.
In the 1990s, the renowned chess grandmaster Bobby Fischer proposed an innovative variation to mitigate this reliance on memory. This variation, which effectively randomizes the starting positions of the seven pieces behind the board, allows for a fair arrangement between the white and black pieces, under the rule that bishops, rooks, and kings maintain relative positions. Known as Chess960 due to its 960 possible starting positions, this format has recently gained immense popularity, drawing players like former world champion Magnus Carlsen to competitive events.
Although Chess960 appears equitable due to its randomness, Marc Barthelemy from The University of Paris-Saclay has revealed that this perceived fairness is deceptive after analyzing all possible configurations.
Typically, the white pieces, who commence the game, hold a slight edge in standard chess. Barthelemy’s analysis indicates that while certain Chess960 setups may greatly favor white, others could advantage black. “Not all positions are equal,” he explains.
To arrive at these findings, Barthelemy utilized Stockfish, an open-source chess engine, to evaluate each starting position’s complexity based on how challenging it was for both players to determine their next moves. By comparing the ease with which the best move could be identified, he assessed the complexity of each configuration. If finding the best move was straightforward, the player encountered minimal decision-making challenges. However, if both players faced comparable difficulties, the decision-making process became increasingly complex.
His research identified the starting position BNRQKBNR as the most complex, while QNBRKBNR offered a balanced challenge for both players. Such insights could assist tournament organizers in ensuring fairer matchups, Barthelemy notes.
Conversely, Vito Servedio from Austria’s Complexity Science Hub argues that randomness inherently provides fairness, and favoring specific Chess960 arrangements over others may lead players to prepare excessively. “It’s more equitable as players start on an equal footing,” Servedio asserts. “Grandmasters have deep knowledge of standard chess openings, but cannot prepare for every potential Chess960 setup.”
Barthelemy also discovered that the standard chess setup is relatively unremarkable regarding fairness and complexity in comparison to many of the other existing positions. “Surprisingly, the standard chess arrangement is not particularly striking,” Barthelemy observes. “It lacks balance and asymmetry, sitting rather centrally in the spectrum of positions. The reasoning for this historical choice remains unclear.”
“In a vast array of positions, it stands in the middle,” Servedio remarks. “Is it purely coincidental? I cannot say.”
Barthelemy notes that measuring complexity is not the sole method for evaluating chess game difficulty. Giordano De Marso from the University of Konstanz comments that the true challenge of a position often lies in having a singular move to identify, rather than choosing the best among several options.
De Marso expresses uncertainty regarding whether Barthelemy’s higher complexity scores correlate with players perceiving games as more difficult but suspects they do. “If increased positional complexity leads to longer deliberation times, it strengthens the case for this measurement,” he concludes.
Artist’s impression of a rogue planet capturing light from a distant source
Credit: J. Skowron/OGLE
Located nearly 10,000 light-years away, a Saturn-sized planet roams through the vacuum of space. This enigmatic rogue planet was discovered through the joint efforts of ground-based telescopes and the Gaia Space Telescope, marking the first time researchers have measured the mass of a free-floating exoplanet.
Typically, rogue planets found are either more massive than Jupiter or lighter than Neptune, creating a gap known as the “Einstein Desert.” This gap is attributed to the fact that lighter celestial bodies are more likely to be ejected from their stellar orbits, while heavier planets may form independently in open space, similar to stars.
This newly identified exoplanet is extremely rare and has been assigned two designations: KMT-2024-BLG-0792 and OGLE-2024-BLG-0516. Andrzej Udalski, along with researchers from the University of Warsaw, made this groundbreaking discovery using distinct ground-based telescopes. What makes it even more remarkable is its measured mass, which is approximately one-fifth that of Jupiter.
“What’s fascinating about this find is that it’s the first rogue planet we’ve measured in terms of mass, achievable through both Earth-based and Gaia observations,” says Gavin Coleman from Queen Mary University of London. The planet was detected via a method known as gravitational microlensing, occurring when light from a distant source is bent by the planet’s gravitational field, resulting in a halo effect around it. The alignment of the Gaia Space Telescope at the right moment allowed additional capture of this microlensing event.
“Mass is a crucial factor for classifying celestial bodies as planets,” Udalsky explains, confirming this as the first verified rogue planet. “This is a pivotal moment for recognizing that floating planets do indeed exist,” he added. The upcoming NASA Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope, expected to launch in 2027, is anticipated to uncover even more such celestial discoveries.
“These planets should be quite numerous, with many being expelled from their original stellar systems during their formation’s early stages, providing key insights into how planetary systems develop,” Udalsky notes. This knowledge may contribute to understanding the formation of our own solar system, which some studies suggest may have inadvertently ejected planets in its early history.
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Exercise isn’t the key factor for effective weight loss.
This common misconception has been perpetuated for decades: the solution to burning excess calories is straightforward: move more. Indulging in cake? Simply compensate with a workout.
However, a groundbreaking new study challenges this long-standing belief. Researchers analyzed data from over 4,200 individuals across 34 countries and discovered that those who exercised significantly please don’t burn more calories than those who lead a sedentary lifestyle.
Surprisingly, the study revealed that hunter-gatherers in Tanzania’s Hadza community consume roughly the same number of calories each day, pound-for-pound, as the average American office worker—despite the Hadza tribe engaging in far more physical activity than most Americans do in an entire week.
The Hadza people of Tanzania walk between 8 to 16 kilometers (5 to 10 miles) daily while hunting and foraging—comparable to the distance most of us cover in a week. Credit: Getty
While there are minor individual variations in calorie expenditure, overall, only about 10% can be attributed to exercise.
“We previously believed that daily calorie expenditure was heavily reliant on activity levels, but recent findings indicate it’s more complex,” states evolutionary anthropologist Professor Herman Pontzer from Duke University, an author of the study.
Should we retire our running shoes and cancel gym memberships? Unfortunately, the answer isn’t that simple. This research implies that movement has minimal influence on weight, yet ceasing exercise isn’t advisable either.
Understanding Metabolism Myths
If a recent study suggests that only a small fraction of daily caloric expenditure stems from exercise, what accounts for the rest? It’s primarily the body’s vital functions that keep us alive.
Processes such as breathing, blood circulation, immune responses, digestion, and cognitive functions all demand energy. This “background work,” termed basal metabolic rate (BMR), constitutes the vast majority of calories burned daily.
Despite comprising less than 1% of your body weight, kidneys require approximately 10% of your energy. Photo credit: Getty
This is critical to note: more body mass requires greater energy expenditure overall, which affects the basal metabolic rate. Although this concept seems logical, actual outcomes can be surprising.
In essence, overweight American office workers typically have a higher basal metabolic rate than their Hadza counterparts due to their larger body size.
“Individuals in developed nations tend to burn more calories daily than those in agricultural or traditional communities,” Pontzer remarks. “Larger body sizes correspond with higher energy consumption,” he adds.
This leads to “very little distinction” in total energy expenditure among global populations when body size and composition are factored in, according to Pontzer’s research.
In simpler terms, a sedentary office worker burns as many calories daily as their more active peers.
Caloric Calculation Formula Explained
Could it be that we all expend roughly the same amount of energy relative to body size? As Pontzer explains, “When activity levels fluctuate, our metabolism adjusts by reallocating energy resources.”
This balance, a process known as homeostasis, ensures that if you suddenly ramp up your activity, your body will shift energy away from certain background tasks in response. Pontzer elaborates, “As activity increases, the body seems to adjust to maintain its overall caloric expenditure.”
While it might sound concerning that calorie expenditure for other bodily functions could decrease, Pontzer assures it’s generally a positive adjustment.
“Modifying how you burn calories is beneficial. Many people expend excessive calories on unnecessary functions, such as background inflammation,” he adds.
Exercise improves efficiency by reallocating energy, lowering inflammation, and promoting overall health. Although it may not be the ultimate solution for weight loss, it plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy body.
Participating in a 5K may feel like burning extra calories, but your metabolism quietly maintains its balance. Photo credit: Getty
However, there are limits to this adaptive capacity. Sudden increases in physical activity can stress the body, potentially impairing the immune and reproductive systems. Consequently, you might experience increased illness, reduced libido, or even missed periods.
“This condition is known as overtraining syndrome,” Pontzer explains. “That said, you’re unlikely to encounter this unless you’re a professional athlete.”
The same adjustment occurs if you suddenly halt exercise; your metabolism redirects energy towards background processes like inflammation.
“Your body adapts continuously to maintain energy expenditure within a narrow range,” Pontzer emphasizes.
Foods Contributing to Fat Gain
Pontzer argues that diet, rather than exercise, is the primary determinant of body fat percentage.
“The weight we carry is primarily the result of calories consumed but not expended,” he states. “If energy expenditure remains constant, diet must be the influencing factor.”
Research highlights ultra-processed foods as significant contributors to weight gain. These include factory-made items crafted from industrial ingredients and sold in stores—such as packaged breads, snacks, sweets, colorful cereals, bottled sauces, and instant meals.
Ultra-processed foods account for roughly 60% of the average American’s dietary intake. Photo credit: Getty
“Our findings indicate a clear correlation across diverse populations: higher consumption of ultra-processed foods predicts increased body fat,” Pontzer asserts.
While the study’s results are compelling, it’s important to note that researchers did not directly monitor participants’ diets. Neither American office employees nor Hadza individuals maintained food diaries or calorie logs. Data came from national dietary surveys and global consumption databases instead.
This absence of individual dietary tracking poses a significant limitation. We cannot conclusively validate the relationship between ultra-processed foods, body fat, and individual energy expenditure. Why might ultra-processed foods lead to obesity?
Ultra-processed foods could have detrimental effects, partly due to their calorie density. As Dr. Adam Collins, Associate Professor of Nutrition at the University of Surrey, explains, these products may promote excessive calorie consumption.
“It’s not merely about ultra-processing,” he clarifies. “These foods are engineered to be highly palatable and easy to consume in large quantities. Moreover, they are typically energy-dense but low in essential nutrients.”
Supermarket breads often qualify as ultra-processed due to the presence of additives and emulsifiers that enhance shelf life. Photo credit: Getty
Ultra-processed foods are meticulously crafted to be as tasty as possible, generally high in salt, sugar, and fat, while lacking fiber and essential nutrients, leading to rapid consumption in larger portions.
“What tends to happen when individuals decide to eliminate all ultra-processed foods?” Collins notes. “They often end up consuming less overall, leading to greater mindfulness about their diet. This typically results in weight loss and improved health.”
He adds that while complete elimination isn’t necessary nor are all ultra-processed foods harmful, moderation is key.
Examining the Debate
The study does face criticism, including from Collins, who contends that exercise contributes more to weight loss than acknowledged.
“It’s true that exercise might not directly burn a significant amount of calories, and the concept of tracking ‘calories in versus calories out’ is outdated,” he admits.
“However, exercise is vital for regulating appetite, altering body composition, reducing body fat, and increasing muscle mass.” Collins further explains that muscle cells are metabolically more active than fat cells, meaning increasing muscle can subtly elevate daily energy expenditure.
Your fitness tracker may state your snack has been “burned off,” but Pontzer reminds us that your body compensates by reducing energy expenditure elsewhere. Photo credit: Getty
While Pontzer acknowledges exercise’s role in reshaping body composition and its impact on metabolism, he emphasizes that these changes are “subtle” and tend to render weight loss-focused exercise programs largely ineffective.
Collins, however, remains unconvinced, labeling Pontzer’s model as intriguing yet requiring further validation through long-term studies tracking individuals.
Essential Role of Exercise
Despite differing views on exercise’s efficacy for fat loss, there’s consensus on its widespread benefits. Regular activity strengthens the heart, protects bones, enhances metabolism, and boosts mental well-being, contributing to longevity and overall health.
Pontzer hopes health guidance on weight will evolve, yet stresses the importance of exercise.
“Rather than equally attributing blame to diet and physical activity (the current narrative), I wish we could focus solely on diet as the main cause of obesity, which appears to be the most significant factor,” he states.
He adds, “This doesn’t suggest we should stop exercising or refrain from promoting physical activity—those aspirations remain important. However, we need to prioritize our focus on dietary changes.”
This new year is filled with significant events, including the 250th anniversary of America’s founding, the world’s largest sporting event, and an ambitious mission to the moon.
Discover the groundbreaking events set to shape 2026.
Milan Cortina Games
Prepare your skis, snowboards, and skates! The Winter Olympics and Paralympics are just around the corner.
Taking place from February 6th to 22nd in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy, the Olympics will showcase international winter sports stars competing for prestigious gold medals.
Team USA returns with proud cross-country skiers such as Jesse Diggins, para snowboarder Noah Elliott, freestyle skier Alex Hall, and snowboarder Chloe Kim, all former gold medalists.
The closing ceremony is set for February 22nd, and both ceremonies will be broadcast live on NBC, with streaming available on Peacock.
Watch for the Paralympic Games in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo from March 6th to 14th, featuring six sports including para alpine skiing, para biathlon, and wheelchair curling.
Artemis II Launch
In 2026, NASA will make its grand return to the moon.
Scheduled to launch between February and April, the Artemis II mission will test NASA’s Space Launch System rocket and Orion spacecraft by sending four astronauts on a 10-day journey around the moon.
This marks the first crewed flight for the Artemis program, taking astronauts closer to the moon than ever in the past 50 years since the Apollo program concluded.
The mission is particularly critical, given discussions about the need for the U.S. to outpace China in lunar exploration.
A successful Artemis II flight could set the stage for Artemis III, which aims to land astronauts at the moon’s south pole, reinforcing America’s leadership in space exploration.
2026 FIFA World Cup
Viva el fútbol!
The highly anticipated FIFA World Cup returns this summer, marking its 23rd edition with a record 48 competitor teams.
The opening match will take place on June 11th at Estadio Azteca, Mexico City, with the final scheduled for July 19th at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
Over the span of a month, 104 matches will unfold, showcasing the strongest teams from around the globe.
The 16 host cities include Toronto and Vancouver in Canada, Guadalajara, Mexico City, and Monterrey in Mexico, as well as major U.S. cities like Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Houston, and Los Angeles.
This year, there will be an additional 16 teams competing compared to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Returning are heavyweights such as Argentina (three-time champions), Brazil (five-time champions), England, Germany, France, Spain, Uruguay, and the U.S., who seek their first championship title.
Several countries will be making their World Cup debuts including Cape Verde, Curacao, Jordan, and Uzbekistan.
As of December, 42 teams have officially qualified, including Mexico, Canada, and several others from around the globe.
The remaining six teams will be determined by March, as they compete in playoffs.
America 250
This year marks the 250th anniversary of the United States, commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776.
This day symbolizes America’s emergence as an independent nation, embodying vital values of liberty and equality.
Events and initiatives in honor of this milestone are already underway, with many more planned throughout the year.
On New Year’s Day, America 250, a bipartisan initiative created by Congress in 2016, will unveil floats in the Pasadena Rose Parade. The theme is “Moving Forward Together for 250 Years.”
In January 2025, President Trump signed a presidential order to plan events commemorating the anniversary, including a major celebration that transformed the Washington Monument into the “World’s Tallest Birthday Candle.”
Freedom 250 has announced the Great American State Fair on the National Mall from June 25th to July 10th, featuring exhibits from all 50 states.
“This will be an unprecedented event that you’ll never see again,” stated Trump in a video address on December 18th.
The grand celebrations will culminate in a Fourth of July National Unity Celebration on the National Mall, featuring a military flyover, remarks from President Trump, and a spectacular fireworks display.
Additionally, new Patriot Games—a four-day athletic event showcasing top high school athletes from each state—will be held.
Memorial Day parades and a UFC event at the White House are scheduled for Flag Day, which also coincides with Trump’s birthday.
Plans are also in the works for an “Arc de Triomphe” in Washington, D.C., similar to the one in Paris.
Midterm Elections
The 2026 political landscape will be defined by battles for congressional control and crucial gubernatorial elections.
With Republicans holding a slight edge in the House, Democrats are striving to win three additional seats to reclaim leadership amidst ongoing redistricting challenges.
Key gubernatorial races will take place in battleground states including Georgia, Nevada, Arizona, Michigan, and Wisconsin, determining the future of national legislatures alongside major mayoral elections in cities like Los Angeles and Washington, D.C.
Achieving a Healthy Weight: A Future of Possibilities
Merch Hub/Shutterstock
Recent advancements in obesity treatments have introduced highly effective medications, with the prospect of even more potent experimental treatments set for testing in 2026.
“We are witnessing an ambitious new phase in obesity treatment that promises improved health outcomes for numerous patients,” states Laura Heisler from the University of Aberdeen, UK. “Obesity is linked to severe health complications, including cancer, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. A modest 5% reduction in body weight can significantly decrease these health risks.”
The first major weight loss drug, semaglutide, was initially approved as a diabetes treatment in 2017 under the name Ozempic. In 2021, it received approval for weight management as Wegovy.
Semaglutide functions by imitating the natural hormone GLP-1, which binds to brain and pancreatic receptors, helping to curb appetite and slow gastric emptying. Alongside its weight loss benefits, semaglutide has demonstrated positive cardiovascular effects and potential in managing conditions like substance addiction. However, common side effects like nausea can lead to discontinuation of the drug.
In 2023, Tirzepatide, marketed as Mounjaro for diabetes, secured approval for weight loss under the name Zepbound. Enhancing semaglutide’s effectiveness, Tirzepatide operates by mimicking both GLP-1 and another hormone, GIP, which is involved in energy management. Like semaglutide, it has comparable side effects.
In clinical trials, semaglutide resulted in an average weight reduction of 14% over 72 weeks, while participants using tirzepatide achieved a 20% reduction. Notably, regaining lost weight is common once the medication is stopped.
Looking ahead, more dual-action and even triple-action medications are in development. A promising candidate for 2024 approval is Kaglisema, which merges semaglutide with Caglilintide, a drug that stimulates fullness through amylin mimicry.
In a trial with over 3,400 adults, those taking Kaglisema achieved a weight loss of 20% after 68 weeks, outperforming both semaglutide (15%) and Caglilintide alone (12%), indicating strong potential.
Additionally, a drug named amicretin is undergoing development. Similar to CagliSema, it mimics both GLP-1 and amylin, but uses a single molecule that binds to both receptor types.
In preliminary trials involving 125 participants, amicretin users experienced an average weight loss of 24% after 36 weeks, suggesting superior effectiveness compared to tirzepatide, although final-stage trials won’t commence until 2026.
Moreover, the “triple G” drug letartortide activates three hormones to facilitate fat release: GLP-1, GIP, and glucagon. In a study of 338 individuals, those on the highest dose experienced an average weight loss of 24% after 48 weeks. Results from late-stage trials will be crucial for assessing letartortide’s approval timeline, expected in late 2026 or beyond.
It’s important to note that weight loss results from various clinical studies aren’t directly comparable due to differences in participant criteria, study durations, and dosages. Moreover, average results can mask significant variability in individual responses to GLP-1 drugs; while some experience negligible effects, others see remarkable weight loss.
As many as 100 new weight-loss drugs are currently in development for 2026 and beyond as companies strive to capture a share of the lucrative market. These innovations often focus on diverse combinations of existing targets, such as GLP-1, GIP, glucagon, and amylin receptors, or explore new mechanisms entirely.
Research is also addressing adverse effects, such as the evidence indicating some weight loss from GLP-1 drugs may come from muscle rather than fat. For instance, a recent trial earlier this year combined semaglutide with bimagrumab, a muscle growth inhibitor, seeking to counterbalance these effects.
“The prospect of emergent, highly effective drugs with fewer side effects is indeed exciting,” says Heisler.
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Valar Atomics’ Ward 250 Reactor Under Construction
Daria Nagovitz/Valar Atomics
Despite contributing nearly one-fifth of the U.S. power generation, nuclear energy in the country has seen stagnation for decades. Factors such as regulatory challenges, public apprehension, and affordable energy sources have hindered growth, coupled with factory closure moratoriums and insufficient funding for new nuclear technologies. However, an increasing demand for power, especially from data centers, is reviving interest in nuclear energy. The Department of Energy is moving rapidly to rectify this delay with its reactor pilot program, aiming for a major milestone by mid-2026.
This initiative is part of the Department of Energy Strategy, which seeks to quadruple nuclear production by 2050. Eleven companies focused on advanced nuclear reactor technology have been chosen to participate, with expectations for at least three to reach criticality – a stable and self-sustaining nuclear fission state – by July 4, 2026.
“We intentionally set very ambitious deadlines,” stated Leslie Dewan, a nuclear engineer specializing in advanced reactor technology. “One of our pilot’s goals is to evaluate which concepts thrive under real-world conditions.”
The reactor designs under development range from molten salt and hot gas reactors to fast reactors, sodium-cooled systems, and pressurized water reactors. Notably, California-based Valar Atomics is regarded as a frontrunner, especially with its Ward 250 high-temperature gas reactor.
High-temperature gas reactors utilize small particles of uranium surrounded by carbon and ceramic coatings, transforming them into self-contained fuel units. This coating ensures that the particles remain intact even at extreme temperatures, creating a protective safety barrier to contain any radioactive materials.
Fuel particles are embedded within graphite blocks, which serve as the reactor core, featuring channels for helium gas circulation. The nuclear fission reaction generates heat that boils water, producing steam to power generators and generate electricity. The helium gas then returns to the reactor for reheating.
Valar broke ground on Ward 250 in September, marking it as the second company to initiate construction, following Texas-based Arlo Atomics which began in August. Valar has achieved the first low-temperature criticality, demonstrating a self-sustaining fission reaction under controlled conditions, offering valuable data to confirm core physics. “It’s not equivalent to constructing and operating your integrated test reactor at full power,” Dewan explained.
Texas-based Natura Resources is also developing molten salt reactors known for their inherent safety features, although they function differently. In these designs, uranium is dissolved in molten salt, heated by fission. A pump circulates this liquid salt to a heat exchanger, generating steam or driving a turbine. If overheating occurs, the molten salt expands and melts an emergency “freeze plug,” allowing the fuel to safely drain and preventing chain reactions.
“Molten salt reactors operate at atmospheric pressure, containing any accidents to the plant site,” emphasizes Dewan. “Even in a total power failure, the reactor can come to a safe stop without on-site operator intervention.”
Natura has not yet commenced construction but secured a permit from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission to build a 1-megawatt research reactor. Additionally, it has recently acquired Shepherd Power, which will enhance its supply chain and regulatory expertise to expedite its technology’s implementation. Dewan noted, “We have fostered a highly collaborative relationship with the NRC,” though she cautioned, “the challenges posed by molten salts, which are corrosive and radioactive at high temperatures, should not be underestimated.”
With the critical deadline approaching in about six months, Valar, Natura, and nine other companies in the pilot program must work at an exceptional pace to meet this goal. However, this is just one of many challenges that must be navigated.
“The true evaluations will center around whether we can safely power the reactor on and off, operate it for extended periods at design temperatures, and ensure that materials and fuel perform as anticipated. All of this must be reliably demonstrated to gain trust from the NRC and future clients,” Dewan concludes. “I see the 2026 date as the beginning of an intriguing data collection phase, far from the conclusion.”
Training without interruption fosters self-control
Miljko/Getty Images
Olivia Rems, a mental health researcher at the University of Cambridge and author of the book This is How You Grow After Trauma, provides insights into developing a healthier mindset. Her extensive research spans the mental health landscape in high-risk environments, such as the construction industry, and aims to assist women from disadvantaged backgrounds in reducing anxiety. Here, she shares three evidence-backed strategies to bolster your well-being, enhance self-control, and empower you to achieve your goals.
1. Engage in Small Daily Actions to Cultivate Self-Control
The findings from my research team at the University of Cambridge, alongside years of seminars and discussions, indicate that self-control is a crucial aspect of happiness. It fosters a sense of calm and enhances life satisfaction. Self-control involves the ability to think, act, or behave in accordance with your intentions, even when faced with challenges. Similar to a muscle, the more you exercise self-control, the stronger it becomes.
Numerous studies support this notion. In one research effort, participants faced self-control tasks, such as maintaining a grip on an object or avoiding thoughts about polar bears—a challenging directive. Post-experimental analysis revealed that those who engaged in daily self-control activities for two weeks displayed improved resilience in subsequent tasks compared to a control group. This suggests that consistent practice in self-control, even in minor ways, leads to lasting improvements across various life domains.
2. Avoid Daydreaming
Studies reveal that we often spend over a third of our day daydreaming, which can hinder productivity. While some daydreaming has its benefits, researchers from Harvard found that wandering minds are typically less happy. Their research revealed that distraction from current tasks negatively impacted participants’ overall well-being, even if the daydreams were pleasant. Being aware of the drawbacks of mind wandering empowers you to refocus your thoughts on tasks that enhance your happiness and productivity.
3. Craft Your Life Script
As you reflect on your goals for the year, consider what your life script would entail. What habits do you wish to cultivate? What achievements do you aspire to reach? Assess your current satisfaction in key life areas on a scale of 1 to 10, honing in on those you wish to improve. Focus on small, actionable steps to increase your satisfaction levels, as sustainable changes are key. For example, specify your goals with clarity, such as “I want to exercise for 20 minutes in the morning” rather than vague aspirations.
Research indicates that motivation often follows action. Therefore, start small—set achievable goals that lead you toward greater aspirations. Incremental progress can facilitate significant life changes.
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