The electric vehicle (EV) revolution is new research published in Cell Reports Sustainability.
The accelerating demand for lithium, an essential element of EV batteries, is expected to outstrip domestic supply in major markets by the decade’s end.
This analysis highlights China, the US, and Europe, which collectively represent 80% of current EV sales. Researchers caution that without significant changes, these regions may not fulfill their lithium requirements from local sources by 2030, leading to an increased reliance on imports and a heightened risk of global shortages.
“Many previous studies have examined the lithium necessary for low-carbon transitions,” said Dr. Andre Manberger, a co-author of the new study, in an interview with BBC Science Focus.
“The issue is that often we compare projected lithium demand with current mining rates and existing reserves. However, there’s a gap in the existing literature concerning mining feasibility.”
Globally, EV sales surpassed 17 million in 2024, marking a 25% increase from the previous year.
The International Energy Agency forecasts that electric vehicles could represent 40% of all car sales by 2030. However, this expansion hinges on a stable supply of lithium carbonate equivalents (LCE).
The study indicates that by 2030, annual LCE demand will reach 1.3 million tonnes in China, 792,000 metric tonnes in Europe, and 692,000 in the US. Yet, even if all current and planned mining projects are considered, domestic supply remains inadequate: China could produce up to 1.1 million tonnes, the US 610,000, and Europe only 325,000.
This shortfall could intensify global competition for lithium, primarily sourced from Australia, Chile, and Argentina. In 2023, these three countries accounted for nearly 80% of the world’s lithium.
Almost 50% of the world’s lithium was mined in Australia in 2023.
China currently dominates the global lithium market, and an increase in its imports could negatively impact other buyers. Researchers found that should China’s imports rise by 77%, the US and European imports could drop by 84% and 78%, respectively.
“Commodity trading tends to have a lot of continuity and path dependence,” Månberger explains.
“This is due to the established supply chain, contracts, and overall inertia in the market.”
Nonetheless, there are reasons for optimism. Increasing lithium prices may drive investments in new mining initiatives and motivate manufacturers to create more efficient battery technologies. Alternatives like sodium-ion batteries could also contribute to a more diverse market.
In the long term, recycling could assume a more substantial role. As first-generation EVs reach the end of their lifespans in the 2030s, materials extracted from older batteries could mitigate the need for new lithium extraction.
“I’m very optimistic,” says Månberger. “Historically, while it’s often straightforward to forecast potential bottlenecks and supply risks, innovations tend to emerge unpredictably when these challenges arise.”
Read more:
About our experts
Andre Manberger is a senior lecturer in Environmental and Energy Systems Studies at Lund University, Sweden. He leads the Misttra Mineral Governance Research Program, initiated in 2024, focusing on the rising demand for critical raw materials and addressing conflicts of interest in the low-carbon transition.
All previously observed images were captured from the Sun’s equatorial region. This is due to the fact that Earth, along with other planets and operational spacecraft, orbits the Sun in a flat disk known as the zodiac plane. By adjusting its orbit away from this plane, the ESA Solar Orbiter spacecraft unveils the Sun from an entirely new perspective.
A lower-half image of the Sun, highlighting a square area around its Antarctic. Captured in ultraviolet rays, it reveals hot gases in the Sun’s corona, glowing yellow as they extend outwards with threads and loops. Image credits: ESA/NASA/SOLAR ORBITER/EUI Team/D. Berghmans, Rob.
Professor Carol Mandel, ESA’s Director of Science, remarked:
“The Sun, being our closest star, is essential for life but can also disrupt modern power systems in space and on Earth. Therefore, understanding its mechanisms and predicting its behavior is crucial.”
“The new and unique perspectives provided by the Solar Orbiter mission signal the beginning of a new era in solar science.”
The images were captured by three different scientific instruments on the Solar Orbiter: Polarimetry and Helioseismology Imager (PHI), Extreme Ultraviolet Imager (EUI), and Spectral Imaging of the Coronal Environment (SPICE).
“Initially, I was uncertain of what to anticipate from these observations. The solar pole is truly a Terra Incognita,” said Professor Sami Solanki, leader of the PHI team at the Max Planck Institute for Solar System Research.
This collage shows the Antarctic of the Sun captured on March 16-17, 2025, as the solar orbiter observed from a 15° angle relative to the solar equator. This marked the first high-angle observation campaign just days before achieving its current maximum viewing angle of 17°. Image credits: ESA/NASA/Solar Orbiter/PHI/EUI/SPICE Team.
Each instrument on the Solar Orbiter observes the Sun differently.
PHI captures images of the Sun in visible light (top left) and maps its surface magnetic field (top center).
EUI images the Sun in ultraviolet light (top right), unveiling the corona, a multi-million-degree gas layer in the Sun’s outer atmosphere.
SPICE captures light from various temperatures of charged gases at the Sun’s surface, thereby revealing different layers of its atmosphere.
By analyzing and comparing observations from these three imaging instruments, we can understand how materials in the Sun’s outer layer move.
This could uncover unexpected patterns like polar vortices (swirling gases), reminiscent of those found around the poles of Venus and Saturn.
These innovative observations are crucial for understanding the solar magnetic field, particularly why it inverts every 11 years, aligning with peaks in solar activity.
Current predictive models for the 11-year solar cycle struggle to accurately forecast when and how the Sun will reach its peak activity.
One of the primary scientific discoveries from Solar Orbiter’s polar observations is that the solar magnetic field is currently disordered in the Antarctic region.
While traditional magnets exhibit defined Arctic and Antarctic poles, magnetic measurements from the PHI instrument demonstrate that both polarities exist in the Antarctic region of the Sun.
This phenomenon occurs only briefly during each solar cycle when the magnetic field is reversed at the solar maximum.
Following this reversal, a single polarity gradually takes over the solar pole.
After 5-6 years, the Sun reaches the minimum phase of its cycle, during which its magnetic field is most organized, resulting in the lowest activity levels.
“How this accumulation occurs is not fully understood, so the timing of the solar orbiter’s high latitude observations is remarkably advantageous for tracking the entire process,” noted Professor Solanki.
PHI’s perspective on the solar magnetic field contextualizes these measurements.
The intensity of color (red or blue) signifies the strength of the magnetic field along the line of sight from the solar orbiter to the Sun.
The strongest magnetic fields manifest as two bands flanking the solar equator.
Dark red and blue regions highlight areas of concentrated magnetic fields associated with solar spots on the Sun’s surface (photosphere).
Additionally, both the Antarctic and Arctic regions exhibit red and blue spots, indicating a complex, constantly evolving solar magnetic structure on a smaller scale.
Another noteworthy discovery from the Solar Orbiter comes from the SPICE instrument.
This imaging spectrograph analyzes light (spectral lines) emitted by specific chemical elements such as hydrogen, carbon, oxygen, neon, and magnesium, at known temperatures.
Over the last five years, SPICE has employed this method to uncover processes occurring in various layers of the Sun’s surface.
For the first time, the SPICE team was able to utilize precise spectral line tracing to measure the velocity of moving solar material.
This technique, known as “Doppler measurement,” is named after the effect observed with an ambulance siren as it approaches and recedes, causing a change in pitch.
The resulting velocity map illustrates the movement of solar material within specific solar layers.
“Measurements from high latitudes, made possible with the Solar Orbiter, will revolutionize solar physics,” stated Dr. Frederic Aucele, leader of the SPICE team at Paris Sacree University.
In their recent study, planetary scientist Nina Lanza and her team at the Los Alamos National Laboratory explored the necessary steps to transform Mars’ surface into a more Earthlike environment, and what actions are required now if we aspire to make the Red Planet capable of sustaining human life in the future.
Impressions of terraformed Mars artists. Image credits: Daein Ballard/CC by-sa 3.0.
“Believe it or not, since 1991, there has been no comprehensive examination of Mars’ viability for terraforming,” stated Dr. Lanza.
“Since that time, we have made remarkable progress in Mars science, geoengineering, launch capabilities, and bioscience.”
Terraforming Mars involves warming its atmosphere and enabling engineered microorganisms to generate oxygen through photosynthesis.
“We need to confront the actual requirements, costs, and potential risks before determining whether the effort to warm Mars is worthwhile, as opposed to the alternative of preserving it as a pristine wilderness,” the researchers noted.
The research paper discusses current understanding of Mars’ water, carbon dioxide, soil composition, and potential strategies to raise Mars’ surface temperature, enhance atmospheric pressure, and increase oxygen levels.
Innovative methods have been developed that could elevate Mars’ average global temperature by several tens of degrees.
Research priorities should focus on understanding the fundamental physical, chemical, and biological limitations that will influence future decisions regarding Mars. This research could drive advancements in Mars exploration, biological sciences, and atmospheric engineering.
“This work could ultimately aid in maintaining the ‘Oasis Earth’,” the scientist mentioned.
“Technologies developed for Mars habitation, such as drought-resistant crops, efficient soil enhancements, and advanced ecosystem modeling, could also benefit our home planet.”
“Terraforming research on Mars serves as a crucial testbed for planetary science, probing theoretical frameworks and revealing knowledge gaps.”
“Ongoing research promises significant scientific breakthroughs, regardless of whether large-scale terraforming takes place.”
“Until that study is completed, we cannot ascertain what is physically or biologically feasible.”
“If humanity can learn to terraform a planet like Mars, it may pave the way for future exploration beyond our solar system.”
The team’s paper was published in the journal Natural Astronomy on May 13th.
____
ea debenedictis et al. 2025. A case study of terraforming on Mars. Nut Athlon 9, 634-639; doi:10.1038/s41550-025-02548-0
Tamat puppies are believed to be littermates and early domesticated canines, as indicated by their physical connections to slain mammoth bones and two permafrost-preserved late Pleistocene canids. However, recent comprehensive analyses suggest that these puppies were likely wolves inhabiting a dry, relatively warm environment with variable vegetation, consuming a varied diet that included woolly rhinoceroses.
AI impression of a Tumat puppy. Image credit: Gemini AI.
The Tumat puppy remains consist of two exceptionally well-preserved specimens found in northern Siberia, approximately 40 km from the nearest village named Tumat.
One specimen was unearthed in 2011, while the other was located in 2015 at the Syalakh site.
This puppy was discovered within a layer of ice-preserved soil, alongside woolly mammoth remains.
This discovery prompted scientists to speculate whether the site was once a location for mammoth slaughter carried out by humans, and whether puppies had any relationships with humans similar to those of early dogs and domesticated wolves that scavenged for food.
With neither puppy displaying visible signs of injury or attack, it is conceivable that they were resting after meals inside a burrow until a landslide trapped them.
The new research utilizes animal intestinal content and genetic data as well as various chemical “fingerprints” found in the bones, teeth, and tissues to decipher their life, diet, and the surrounding environment.
Both puppies had consumed solid foods, including woolly rhinoceros meat and small birds known as wagtails.
However, their remains also indicated signs of nursing, suggesting they were still receiving milk from their mother.
Notably, despite being found near human-associated mammoth bones, there was no evidence that the puppies had eaten mammoths. Fragments of woolly rhinoceros skin in their stomachs were partially undigested, indicating they died shortly after their last meal.
It is believed that the woolly rhinoceros was a young calf rather than an adult, likely hunted by an adult pack to nourish the puppies. Nonetheless, even a young woolly rhinoceros would have been significantly larger than the typical prey of modern wolves.
This leads researchers to propose that these Pleistocene wolves were possibly larger than present-day wolves.
Prior DNA testing indicates that the puppies are likely from a wolf lineage that ultimately became extinct and did not contribute to the ancestry of modern pet dogs.
“It is remarkable that the two sisters from this era were so well-preserved, and even more impressive, we can narrate many facets of their existence up to their final meal,” stated Anne Catlin Range, a researcher from York University.
“The initial assumption that Tumat’s puppies were dogs was also grounded on the fact that their black fur was presumed to be a mutation exclusive to dogs. Yet, the Tumat puppies challenge this theory as they lack any relation to contemporary dogs.”
“While many may be disappointed that these creatures are overwhelmingly wolves and not early domesticated dogs, they enhance our understanding of the past environment, their way of life, and how strikingly similar they are to modern wolves.”
“Additionally, it implies that the clue of black fur—once thought significant—was misleading since it appears in wolf cubs from a population unrelated to household dogs, leaving the evolution of pet dogs a curious mystery.”
Fossilized plant remnants found in the puppies’ stomachs indicate they thrived in a diverse environment with various plants and animals, including grasslands and leaves from shrub genera like dryas and willow twigs.
This suggests that their habitat comprised a range of environments capable of supporting a rich and diverse ecosystem.
“Grey wolves have existed for hundreds of thousands of years based on skeletal remains discovered at paleontological sites, and researchers have performed DNA tests to assess population changes over time.”
“The soft tissue preserved in Tumat puppies provides new access to examine wolves and their evolutionary pathways.”
“Their diet encompassed both animal flesh and plant matter, which bears resemblance to contemporary wolves, offering insights into their reproductive behaviors.”
“The duo are sisters, presumably raised in dens and nurtured by their packs—a behavior commonly observed in modern wolf pup rearing.”
“Though they are frequently larger today, it remains possible that Tumat’s puppies had a brother who survived their fate.”
“There may be additional cubs hidden in permafrost or lost to erosion.”
Hunting large prey like woolly rhinoceroses suggests that these wolves, even as pups, were larger than today’s wolves, yet they may have also targeted easier prey.
Survey results will be published in the journal Quaternary Studies.
____
Anne Katlin Wiborg Lange et al. Multifaceted analysis revealed diet and relatives of late Pleistocene “Tamat puppies.” Quaternary Studies Published online on June 12th, 2025. doi: 10.1017/qua.2025.10
Smoke from Canadian wildfires is prompting air quality warnings across the Midwest and Northeastern US this Thursday as forests in North Korea continue to burn at a historic rate reminiscent of the extreme fire season of 2023.
Air pollution levels have surged in cities including Minneapolis, Green Bay, Indianapolis, Cincinnati, Columbus, Pittsburgh, Washington, Philadelphia, and New York due to smoke and ozone from the heat.
According to Canada’s Interagency Forest Fire Centre, the ongoing fire season in Canada has already resulted in the burning of around 8.6 million acres. With three months left in the season, this figure has exceeded the seasonal average since 1983, which stands at approximately 6.5 million acres.
The current burning rates in Canada are mirroring those from 2023, known as the year with the highest smoke exposure in modern American history, raising concerns that the current season may reflect that intensity.
“We’re facing significant challenges with our response,” stated Robert Gray, a wildfire ecologist in Chilliwack, British Columbia. “Most forecasts for Canada indicate above-average temperatures, while precipitation levels remain below normal.”
In past years, nearly 43 million acres burned in Canada by the end of the fire season.
Gray noted that much of the smoke this year originates from the densely packed boreal forests found in northern British Columbia, Alberta, and Saskatchewan. Wildfires typically occur in these regions during May and June, coinciding with longer days and rising temperatures. The subsequent developments depend heavily on weather conditions.
“It could be a brief two-week event. The huy starts burning, aspen gets involved, and then weather changes,” Gray explained, alluding to the common aspen trees in these forests. “If aspen and rain don’t clear out, the fires may persist.”
Gray mentioned that drought, low snowfall during winter, and heightened “overwinter” fires are factors contributing to increasingly busy fire seasons.
These overwintering fires continue smoldering beneath forest debris and peat, reigniting in spring.
“There was a fire that started in 2023, lingering through winter into 2024,” Gray remarked. “Some of the same fires have reemerged this year.”
As northern British Columbia faces these wildfires, smoke is often transported to the US by the jetstream, a high-altitude air current that influences pressure and weather changes in the Northern Hemisphere.
“It’s a consistent pattern that remains stable. As long as central and northern BC are burning, this pattern channels smoke into the central and northeastern US,” Gray stated.
Sometimes the smoke stays aloft, creating hazy skies without significant ground-level air quality deterioration. However, it can pose a risk to health.
Wildfire smoke is increasingly hazardous across the US, reversing decades of improvements in air quality achieved under the Clean Air Act.
Inhaling wildfire smoke can cause inflammation, particularly as particles enter the lungs and bloodstream, compromising the immune system. This exposure can elevate the risks of asthma, lung cancer, and other chronic respiratory diseases, especially in vulnerable populations such as the elderly, pregnant individuals, infants, and children. Additionally, wildfire smoke is linked to respiratory illnesses, premature births, and miscarriages.
In my view, the Stern-Gerlach experiment was a pivotal moment that introduced the findings of quantum mechanics to the scientific community. Proposed by Otto Stern and carried out by Walther Gerlach in 1922, this experiment demonstrated that atoms possess quantum properties. It revealed that electrons must adhere to quantum principles. The Stern-Gerlach experiments underscore the unusual aspects of the quantum realm, suggesting that observers seem to influence the properties that particles exhibit. Measuring the quantum characteristic known as spin appears to alter the possible spin values particles can possess subsequently. Essentially, the act of observation influences the future states of a particle.
In physics, we are conditioned to perceive ourselves as separate from the physical systems we study. This experiment challenges that separation. My experience shows that students often accept this premise as an undeniable truth. However, after contemplating it multiple times, they find it at odds with their intuitive understanding of reality. Coming to terms with these outcomes is a surreal journey—wonderful and extraordinary.
When I reflect on how to articulate witnessing the decline of American science in real-time, “surreal” is the best descriptor. It does not resemble the surrealism of the Stern-Gerlach experiment; instead, it feels like a reawakening to a tangible reality. I recognize that I once harbored an illusion about the world, but the emerging reality is intriguing and exhilarating.
Our current political climate resembles a reckoning with a previously held false sense of security. It seems that although the US government might support science today, there won’t be a transformative reality waiting for us tomorrow. Instead, the government continues to squander taxpayer-funded culture, casting it into oblivion. This metaphor carries weight: when an object crosses a black hole’s event horizon, it reaches a point of no return. The object is lost forever.
We find ourselves in a similar predicament. The universe remains to be explored, but the impairments to our research capabilities are enduring, altering the trajectory permanently. The number of master’s and doctoral programs has already diminished the availability of opportunities. Aspiring professors are not receiving the same level of training, which will affect not only future scientists but also science communicators.
The US government discards publicly funded culture, casting it into voids of neglect.
The entirety of our future appears discarded. While Donald Trump has suggested cuts to NASA’s astrophysics budget and the National Science Foundation’s physics funding, these reductions in mathematics and astronomy will not prevent global hindrances to science, and will lead to far-reaching repercussions. The US plays a crucial role as a global investor in particle physics, cosmology, and investigations into fundamental truths.
While attending the 2025 Natural Philosophy Symposium at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland, we were alerted to devastating budget cuts to NASA’s funding. The event started with an engaging talk by philosopher and cognitive scientist David Chalmers, followed by insights from philosopher Sandra Mitchell on human reasoning, and a discussion with theoretical physicist Nima Arkani-Hamed.
We discussed questions that have captivated humanity for millennia. What is reality, and how can one engage in researching that reality? Such events emphasize the potential outcomes when provided with the necessary time, space, and resources to explore ideas.
During this gathering, NASA’s Astrophysics department appeared to be on the brink of obliteration. The repercussions of this shift will echo for decades. In 1922, Germany stood at the forefront of scientific understanding. However, after the Nazis subverted German science for their propaganda, the field never fully recovered.
This narrative may seem like a dramatic tale about a specific group of individuals. Yet, it’s essential to remember that these discussions lead to real publications. I benefited from Government Pell Grants for economically disadvantaged undergraduates and the National Science Foundation’s Graduate Research Fellowship. The research discussed in this article has been financed through several federal agencies.
This disconcerting moment affects not only scientists in the US but resonates worldwide. Much of the science we engage with originates from American institutions, making this issue pertinent to all of us.
Chanda’s Week
What I’m reading
I’m currently delving into Ricky Fein’s intriguing debut novel. The devil has three times.
What I’m watching
I’ve enjoyed Mission: Impossible, and I’ve seen all of the films at least once in the past two weeks.
What I’m working on
I’ve drafted my third book, The Universe is a Black Aesthetic (Coming soon from Duke University Press).
Chanda Prescod-Weinstein serves as an associate professor of physics and astronomy, as well as a core faculty member of women’s studies at the University of New Hampshire. Her latest book is The Disturbed Cosmos: A Journey to Dark Matter, Space, and Dreams.
Researchers can construct structures that mimic lab black holes
Science Photo Library/Alamy
By shaping light into a liquid-like form, researchers aim to deepen their grasp of black holes and other intriguing phenomena.
Though observing supermassive objects like black holes directly is a challenge, scientists have employed quantum effects to create valuable analogs in laboratory settings. For instance, they have previously simulated space-time with ultra-cold atoms to mimic a black hole’s material.
Now, Kevin Falk from the Kastler-Brossel Laboratory (LKB) in Paris and his team have utilized light to generate highly controlled analogs of space-time.
They achieved this by trapping light within small cavities made of reflective semiconductor materials, allowing it to bounce between layers and interact with the material’s charge. This quantum interaction ultimately converts light into a liquid-like state.
Researchers can manipulate this fluid with lasers to replicate the geometry of space-time, creating structures that correspond to a black hole’s event horizon. The object can fall but will not return.
Their light-based “space” is meticulously controlled, enabling Falk and his colleagues to visualize events and create sudden space-time structures.
They plan to use this unique simulation to investigate how Hawking radiation emitted from black holes varies with abrupt changes in the event horizon. However, achieving this requires cooling and isolating the experiment to amplify the quantum effects involved.
“This work represents a remarkable experimental achievement,” says Juan Ramon Muñoz de Nova from Complutense University in Madrid, who has contributed to initial measurements of Hawking radiation in black hole simulations involving ultracold atoms. He believes these new experiments present opportunities to observe various phenomena, such as how black holes vibrate and produce “ring” effects.
Friedrich Koenig from St Andrews University in the UK notes that this research offers “the most valuable platform” to explore new concepts related to gravity and the complex interplays between gravity and quantum effects.
One striking outcome of this study is the potential to reveal that the observed black holes might not be what they seem. Maxime Jacquet from LKB explains that the first image captured of a black hole by the Event Horizon Telescope may appear authentic, but the visual representation of a black hole may not equate to its true nature.
There could be sizable objects that distort light like black holes, creating a false appearance without an observable event horizon. Theoretical investigations suggest this is feasible, and light-based experiments may allow for further exploration of this possibility, according to Jacquet.
“We must exercise caution. While we have these analogs, fluids and black holes are fundamentally different entities,” warns Falk. “However, this experiment enables us to experiment with testing theories related to black holes.”
Computational models enabling the swift design of vascular networks for 3D-printed organs could advance the prospect of artificial liver, kidney, or heart transplants, eliminating the dependency on donors.
Individuals suffering from organ failure often require transplants. Merely 10% of the global transplant demand is currently met. In response, researchers are innovating techniques to produce lab-grown organs via 3D printing. However, these efforts hinge on experimental methodologies for sustaining the vascular networks long enough to remain viable for days or weeks.
To tackle this issue, Allison Marsden from Stanford University and her team have developed a computational model that facilitates the design of these networks for any organ using mathematical principles explaining how blood vessels branch within the body.
They evaluated their method by creating a network of 25 vessels with 1 cm wide ring-shaped structures that were 3D printed from kidney cells according to their design.
The team then fabricated the vascular network into rings using cold gelatin particles, subsequently heated to 37°C (98.6°F) to dissolve the gelatin, resulting in a network of hollow channels measuring 1 mm in width that mirrored blood vessels. The researchers continued to circulate oxygen and nutrient solutions through the channels to replicate normal blood flow.
After one week, the ring contained approximately 400 times more viable cells compared to a similar ring made from bloodless kidney cells that had been exposed to blood-like fluids.
“We succeeded in keeping the cells near the network alive,” remarks Marsden. “However, the more distant cells perished because we were unable to print the smaller, more intricately branched networks necessary to deliver nutrients to those regions. Our team is actively seeking solutions to this challenge.”
“They are definitely pushing the limits of feasibility,” states Hugues Talbot from University Paris-Clay, France. This novel approach might someday enable scientists to design vascular networks for full-sized organs in mere hours, rather than days or weeks. “Networks designed in this manner could potentially substitute or at least complement lab-grown organs in the future.”
First, researchers must devise methods for 3D printing these vascular networks onto larger organs. If progress continues on this path, Marsden expresses a desire to experiment with 3D-printed organs in pigs within the next five years.
John Stewart Bell developed a method to measure the unique correlations permitted in the quantum world
CERN
While some perceive a Poltergeist in the attic and others spot a ghost on dark nights, there’s also the enigmatic figure of John Stewart Bell. His groundbreaking work and enduring legacy have intrigued me for years.
Consider this: how much of our reality can we claim to experience objectively? I ponder this frequently, especially when discussing the intricate nature of space, time, and quantum mechanics. Bell was deeply reflective about such matters, and his contributions have forever altered our comprehension of these concepts.
Born in Belfast in 1928, Bell was, by all accounts, a curious and cheerful child. He gravitated towards physics early and undertook his first role as a lab engineer at just 16. With training in both theoretical and experimental physics, he built a significant part of his career around particle accelerators. Yet, it was the inconsistencies he perceived within quantum theory that occupied his thoughts during late nights.
Today, this area has become a well-established branch of physics, featured prominently in New Scientist. Modern physics does not typically welcome those who question the edges of physics, mathematics, and philosophy. In Bell’s time, scientists were still grappling with the legacies of quantum theory’s pioneers, including heated debates between Niels Bohr and Albert Einstein.
My interest in Bell’s work began as a casual pursuit, though I devoted several hours to it. In 1963, he took a sabbatical with his physicist wife, using the time to craft a pair of original papers. Initially published without much attention, their significance could not be understated.
Bell transformed philosophical inquiries into testable experiments, particularly concentrating on the notion of “hidden variables” in quantum mechanics.
Quantum mechanics inherently resists certainty and determinism, as elucidated by Bohr and his contemporaries in the early 20th century. Notably, definitive statements about quantum entities remain elusive until we engage with them. Predictive ability exists only in probabilistic terms—an electron, for instance, might have a 98% likelihood of exhibiting one energy level while being 2% likely to reveal another, but the actual outcome is intrinsically random.
How does nature make these seemingly random decisions? One theory proposes that certain properties remain hidden from observers. If physicists could identify these hidden variables, they could inject absolute predictability into quantum theory.
Bell crafted a test aimed at marginalizing the myriad hidden variable theories, either altering or challenging quantum theory. This test typically involves two experimenters—Alice and Bob. A pair of entangled particles is produced repeatedly, with one particle sent to Alice and the corresponding one dispatched to Bob in a separate laboratory. Upon receipt, Alice and Bob each independently measure specific properties, for instance, Alice might analyze a particle’s spin.
Simultaneously, Bob conducts his measurements without any communication between the two experimenters. Once all data is collected, it is filtered into equations derived by Bell in 1964. This “inequality” framework evaluates the correlations between Alice and Bob’s observations. Even in scenarios devoid of quantum interactions, some correlations may occur by mere chance. However, Bell established a threshold of correlation indicating that something beyond randomness is happening. The particles demonstrate correlations unique to quantum physics, negating the presence of local hidden variables.
Thus, Bell’s test does more than affirm quantum theory as a superior explanation of our reality; it also underscores the peculiar nature of “non-locality,” revealing strange traits of our existence. This implies that quantum objects can maintain connections, with their behaviors remaining profoundly intertwined despite vast separations. Einstein critiqued this notion vigorously, as it contradicts the principles of his special theory of relativity by insinuating a form of instantaneous communication between entities.
Bell, initially a disciple of Einstein’s theories, found himself ultimately proving his idol wrong. His tests compellingly indicated that our reality is indeed quantum. This debate continues to engage researchers, particularly regarding the persistent discrepancies between quantum theory and our best understanding of gravity, framed by Einstein himself.
There was little acknowledgment of Bell’s experimental designs during his lifetime, despite the technical challenges they presented. The first experiment of this kind was conducted in 1972, and it wasn’t until 2015 that a test with minimal loopholes ultimately refuted the local hidden variable theories conclusively. In 2022, physicists Alain Aspect, John F. Krauss, and Anton Zeilinger received the Nobel Prize in Physics for their extensive work on these experiments.
So why does John Stewart Bell’s legacy resonate so strongly with me? Am I ensnared in some quantum malaise?
The answer lies in the fact that his work and the myriad experiments testing it have spawned as many questions about quantum physics and physical reality as they aim to resolve. For instance, numerous physicists concur that our universe is fundamentally non-local, yet they strive to uncover the underlying physical mechanisms at play. Others are busy formulating new hidden variable theories that evade the constraints set by Bell’s tests. Additionally, researchers are scrupulously reevaluating the mathematical assumptions Bell made in his original work, believing that fresh perspectives on Bell’s findings may be critical for advancing interpretations of quantum theory and developing cohesive theories.
The repercussions of Bell’s findings permeate the realm of quantum physics. We have engaged in Bell tests for nearly five decades, continuously enhancing entangled particles. But this is just the beginning. Recently, I collaborated with physicists to design a method to leverage Bell’s work in exploring whether free will might be partially constrained by cosmic factors. Afterwards, I received a call from another cohort of researchers keen to discuss Bell again, this time in relation to gravity and the foundational nature of space and time. They drew inspiration from his methodologies and sought to create a test that would examine genuine gravitational properties rather than quantum ones.
It’s no wonder I feel inextricably linked to Bell. His capacity to convert philosophical inquiries into tangible tests encapsulates the essence of physics. The essence of physics is to unravel the world’s most baffling mysteries through experimental means. Bell’s test vividly embodies that promise.
If I must ponder a haunting presence, I couldn’t ask for a more remarkable specter.
One key aspect of engaging conversation is levity. You don’t have to be a comedian, just have fun.
Tetra Images, LLC/Alamy
Conversations form the foundation of our relationships, yet many people find initiating dialogue challenging. Feelings of anxiety often surface when trying to engage in small talk with strangers, or even when connecting with those closest to us. If this resonates, Alison Wood Brooks is here to assist. She is a professor at Harvard Business School and teaches a highly sought-after course titled “Talk: How to Talk Gooder in Business and Life.” Additionally, her works, Talk: The Science of Conversation and the Art of Being Yourself, present four essential principles for fostering deeper conversations. Wood Brooks explains that while conversations can be unpredictable, they adhere to certain guidelines that, once understood, can ease our discomfort about the unpredictable aspects of interaction. New Scientist took the opportunity to ask her how to implement these insights into our daily conversations.
David Robson: Discussing conversation feels quite meta. Have you ever found yourself critiquing your own conversational skills?
Alison Wood Brooks: The layers of “metaness” are numerous. Even as I participated in discussions, I often felt as if I was observing from above. At Harvard, I teach courses, and many of my students experience this phenomenon too. There may be a challenging phase of over-excitement, but I hope that this subsides as they develop more effective conversational habits. There’s a well-known quote from Charlie Parker, the jazz saxophonist, which goes, “Practice, practice, practice, and when you hit the stage, let it all go and just play.” That’s how I approach conversation—it’s crucial to embrace the joy of being with another human, never losing the magic of that connection. While it’s beneficial to prepare, once you’re engaged in conversation, let go and allow the dialogue to flow.
From reading your book, I gathered that to bring energy into a conversation, one should ask about another person’s passion—so, what inspired your passion for conversation?
I have two responses to this question. The first is professional; early in my tenure at Harvard, I delved into emotions by examining how people articulate their feelings and the balance between emotions that one feels and expresses. Through this exploration, I developed a profound interest in understanding not just my emotions but how others communicate their experiences as well. We have advanced scientific tools today that allow us to analyze conversations on a large scale, thanks to the advent of natural language processing, machine learning, and AI, enabling us to process vast amounts of conversational data effectively.
On a personal note, I am a twin, which means I’ve always coexisted with someone who mirrors me closely. From the moment I opened my eyes as a newborn, I was beside an exact copy of myself. This relationship has allowed me to observe my interactions with the world and how she engages with others. When she succeeded in communicating or making jokes, I learned from her success, and I was able to avoid similar pitfalls when I witnessed her failures. This unique dynamic provided feedback most people don’t have. As twins, we were able to converse constantly, sharing spaces, clothes, friends, and even sports, cultivating a shared reality.
Your book outlines a framework for better conversation: topics, asking, lightness, kindness. Let’s start with the first element—how do you decide what topic to discuss?
My initial advice is preparation. Some individuals do this instinctively, thinking about potential conversation topics before meeting someone. For those who naturally lean into this habit, I encourage you to embrace it. However, some students perceive preparation as too rigid and scripted. Remember, just because you’ve prepared for a conversation doesn’t mean you need to stick exclusively to your planned topics. When unsure what to say next, having backup topics can ease those awkward silences. Maintaining fluidity in conversation is essential for connection. The choice of topic is less crucial at the outset; we are constantly making decisions on whether to stay on one subject, pivot to another, or change completely.
Sometimes the topic of conversation is clear. Still, it can be difficult to know when to switch to a new one.
Martin Parr/Magnum Photos
What guidance can you offer when making these topic decisions?
There are three clear indicators that suggest it’s time to change the topic. The first is a prolonged mutual pause. The second indicator is an awkward laugh, often used to fill spaces with excitement. The third sign is redundancy—if the discussion starts to repeat itself, it’s a signal to switch gears.
After a decent conversation, most people report feeling that they’ve covered an adequate range of topics. However, if you ask individuals about a conversation that didn’t flow well, they often feel they either discussed too little or went too deep into a single subject. This indicates that a common mistake is lingering too long on a single topic.
Your second element of conversation is asking questions. Many of us have heard the advice to ask more questions, yet why do you think many struggle with this?
Research indicates that human nature is inherently egocentric. We often become so absorbed in our own thoughts that we forget to invite others to share theirs. Fear also plays a role; while you might genuinely want to ask others about themselves, you may hesitate, worried about coming off as intrusive or revealing your own ignorance.
What types of questions should we be asking?
In my book, I discuss the significance of follow-up questions, building upon what your conversational partner just expressed. This demonstrates that you’ve listened, care, and wish to delve deeper. Even one thoughtful follow-up question can elevate a shallow conversation to something meaningful.
However, certain questioning patterns, like “Boomerasking,” should be avoided. Michael Yeoman and I recently researched this and it was fascinating. This conversational game boomerangs back to the initial questioner; for instance, if I ask about your breakfast and you reply, sharing details, I might then pivot to my own breakfast without giving due attention to your thoughts. Such a transition can come across as self-centric. Our findings reveal that this can leave your conversational partner feeling unheard. Sharing your perspective is essential, but do so at a moment that allows for mutual engagement rather than overshadowing.
Research by Alison Wood Brooks includes a recent study on “Boomerasking.”
Janelle Bruno
What benefits does levity bring to conversation?
When we examine conversations that falter, we often cite hostility and disagreement as culprits, yet the subtle killer of engaging dialogue is boredom. Levity serves as a preventative measure. Small moments of humor and lightness can rekindle engagement and enhance our connections.
Research shows that those who elicit positive feelings in others often receive respect and recognition, even with a simple joke, as confidence and the capacity to read a room are essential qualities of effective leaders. The joke doesn’t need to be profound or elaborate; it’s the willingness to share that showcases adaptability.
If someone isn’t a natural comedian, what practical steps can they take to introduce levity?
Levity transcends humor—it isn’t solely about being funny. Aspiring to become a comedian isn’t the ultimate goal. Watching stand-up performances showcases how comedians have meticulously refined their craft over time—a stark contrast to the spontaneity of live conversation. In real interactions, individuals seek connection, which doesn’t rely on elaborate jokes but on shared moments of joy. Seize opportunities to introduce lightness by switching to fresh topics or referring back to earlier points in the conversation or relationship. These callbacks, which may highlight something memorable, effectively demonstrate that you’ve been attentive and engaged. Levity can also emerge in the form of genuine compliments; if you appreciate something about someone, articulate it.
This brings us to the final conversation element: kindness. What holds us back from being as kind as we aspire?
Kindness frequently contends with our own egotism. Studies suggest we often underestimate how different others’ perspectives are from our own, leading us to overlook the value of simply asking to hear those perspectives. Being a kind conversationalist means focusing on your partner’s viewpoint—considering their needs and helping fulfill them.
Lastly, what are your top recommendations for enhancing conversations the next time your readers engage with someone?
Conversations can be surprisingly complex and challenging. When things go awry, grant yourself and others some grace. Everyone makes mistakes; sometimes a little kindness can make a significant difference.
Analyzing breath patterns can be crucial for diagnosing and treating numerous health issues
Milan Jovic/Getty Images
Forget about facial recognition—innovative methods for identification may be on the horizon. Researchers have unveiled the concept of “respiratory fingerprints,” a distinctive breathing pattern that could transform the approach to diagnosing and managing various health conditions, including obesity and depression.
The breakthrough is credited to Timna Soroka at the Weizmann Institute of Science in Israel. Together with her team, they designed wearable devices capable of capturing the minute details of our breathing patterns.
“This research is exciting,” says Torben Noto from OSMO in New York, an AI company focused on enhancing computer sensory perception, who was not part of the study. “It tackles many persistent inquiries regarding the relationship between respiratory signals and health, as well as mental well-being.”
The notion that breath patterns can reveal health information isn’t new; clues to this relationship date back to the 1950s. Yet, previous studies were limited to data from hospital patients because no wearable devices existed that could record nasal breathing while allowing people to move freely.
To overcome this limitation, Soroka and her colleagues developed a wearable device, which was tested by 97 participants who wore it around the clock. The team trained an algorithm to detect a unique set of 24 breathing metrics, ranging from the volume of air inhaled to the speed of breathing. Remarkably, the algorithm achieved nearly 97% accuracy in identifying participants, and their unique breathing signature remained consistent over a two-year follow-up period.
However, don’t expect to use this device for banking transactions just yet, warns Norm Sobel from the Weizmann Institute. The primary aim is not biometric authentication, but to extract invaluable health insights.
For instance, a person’s body mass index (BMI) can be estimated using specific nasal cycle parameters, which involve a rhythmic pattern of airflow between nostrils. This cycle is controlled by the balance between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems—the former prepares the body for “fight or flight,” while the latter calms the body. “By assessing nostril airflow, we effectively gauge sympathetic arousal, which seems to correlate with BMI,” explains Sobel.
This leads to intriguing inquiries, Sobel notes: Could breathing patterns influence weight rather than weight changes altering breath? “If that’s the case, we might discover a breathing pattern that promotes weight loss, at which point we’ll all retire to an island,” he quips.
The respiratory data also indicated a link between breathing characteristics and levels of anxiety and depression. For example, individuals experiencing higher depressive symptoms exhibited faster inhalation rates.
The research team is currently exploring whether these breathing patterns actively contribute to these symptoms and if they can be used to diagnose widespread mental health disorders.
“Imagine a future where each patient owns a nasal airflow monitoring device that not only tracks treatment progress but also offers feedback and predicts outcomes for various disorders,” says Noto. The device measures 24 distinct breathing metrics. It also enables users to notice deviations from their normal breathing patterns. “This could have a profound effect on public health,” adds Noto.
The Vera C. Rubin Observatory is set to provide a new perspective on the universe
Olivier Bonin/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory
The elevation is high above Celopachen, a Chilean mountain towering over 2600 meters. As I ascend the stairs within the dome of the Vera C. Rubin Observatory, I find myself breathing deeply. The atmosphere is cool, serene, and expansive, resembling a cathedral. Then, the entire dome begins to rotate, revealing the vast sky.
Night falls, unveiling an abundance of stars like I’ve never witnessed. The Milky Way shines exceptionally bright, and I can spot two of its satellite galaxies, the Small Magellanic Cloud. Yet, the Rubin telescope steals the show with its massive presence. It boasts the largest digital cameras and lenses in the world, tipping the scales at a staggering 350 tons. As a reflective telescope, it gathers light via a mirror, with its largest mirror measuring 8.4 meters across. The tunnel leading to the summit matches its width at about 8.5 meters.
Despite its immense weight, this telescope can maneuver swiftly, poised to transform our understanding of the solar system, galaxies, and the universe at large. Every three nights, it completes a Southern Sky survey, a feat that previously required weeks or months. Over a decade, Rubin will create a kind of cosmic time-lapse.
“By capturing the sky every three days, we can layer those images to delve deeper,” explains researcher Kevin Rail. “Ten years down the line, we will have explored much more deeply, revealing the universe’s structure,” he states.
A core mission of the observatory involves comprehensively understanding how dark matter influences the cosmos. Bella Rubin, the namesake astronomer, initiated this journey in the 1970s when observations of galaxy rotation disclosed that visible matter represented only a fraction of the universe. She discovered that stars on the galactic outskirts were moving faster than expected; according to Kepler’s Law, they should be traveling more slowly compared to stars nearer the galaxy’s center.
After extensive observations and calculations, it became evident that additional unseen mass must exist. This invisible entity is referred to as dark matter, and astronomers now estimate that it is nearly five times more abundant than visible matter, exerting gravitational effects that shape our observable universe.
“Visible entities are actually following the contours set by dark matter, not vice versa,” observes Stephanie Deppe at the observatory. Galaxies are believed to be arranged in what astronomers term the cosmic web, woven by filaments of dark matter that hold the visible stars through gravity. The images captured by Rubin provide an unprecedented view of this web.
Mapping this web also aids in uncovering the properties of dark matter. Is it composed of fast-moving, lightweight particles or is it cold and denser? “You can identify small anomalies, such as kinks in a stellar stream,” Deppe adds. These anomalies indicate where dark matter has accumulated along the filaments. Determining the mass will help to refine hypotheses regarding the type of dark matter present. Additionally, the structure of the cosmic web offers insights into dark energy, the force propelling the universe’s expansion.
Staff at the summit installing the Vera C. Rubin Observatory’s Commissioning Camera in August 2024.
Rubin Observatory/NSF/AURA/H. Stockebrand
The excitement surrounding precision astronomy is palpable at the observatory. During the evening’s observations, chatter fills the kitchen near the telescope control room. One of the telescope operators bounces with eagerness: “We hope the skies cooperate tonight,” a term used for opening the telescope’s shutter to capture images. “Indeed, we do,” his colleague responds, smiling over a cup of tea. As the sun sets, we collectively wish for a clear evening.
When the clouds part, the control room buzzes with activity. The operator skillfully adjusts the telescope to ensure proper focus. Every 30 seconds, a new image is captured, and an audio cue signals when the shutter opens and closes, followed by a satisfying whoosh as it resets. The telescope snaps a segment of the sky before dashing to the next location, creating a grid that will be stitched together.
All systems run smoothly until suddenly, a glitch arises. To optimize viewing opportunities, the observatory employs an automated system that determines where the telescope should aim, based on weather conditions and moon phases. However, this system has momentarily malfunctioned. Operators traverse the mountains for hours with scientists at base camp, diving into the code to locate the problem. Twenty minutes later, adjustments are made, and the regular shutter cadence resumes, with images flowing in once more.
“This is one of the best nights we’ve experienced. The data is exceptional,” notes Eli Rikov, Calibration Scientist. “I hope the processors can deliver high-quality scientific images.”
Once captured, the images embark on a swift journey around the globe. They traverse the 103,000 km stretch of fiber cables leading either across the Atlantic or Pacific, ultimately reaching the U.S. The images pass through a hub in Florida before arriving at the SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory in California.
Each image is approximately 32 gigapixels, comparable to a 4K movie, and arrives within about 10 seconds. William Omlan manages data on the observation deck. From there, the data is distributed to facilities in the UK and France, making the images accessible to scientists worldwide.
One of the most urgent analyses will focus on swiftly moving objects. The night sky constantly shifts and changes in unpredictable ways, and the Rubin Observatory is poised to catch these movements. It will track asteroids and comets moving across the sky, including those in the main asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter, as well as Trans-Neptunian objects.
“Currently, we only know a few thousand objects,” explains an expert in the Kuiper Belt and other distant clouds. “Rubin could potentially increase our catalog tenfold.”
Moreover, it will help monitor potential threats from near-Earth objects, amplifying our known inventory from around 30,000 to approximately 100,000. The telescope has also successfully observed fast-moving interstellar visitors like Oumuamua, which zipped through our solar system in 2017, and Borisov, which arrived in 2019.
This census of solar system objects could also shed light on the elusive Planet 9, a hypothetical world—5 to 10 times Earth’s size—believed to exist in the outer solar system, inferred from the unusual orbits of Kuiper Belt objects. Simulations suggest it could be responsible, though conclusive evidence is still missing.
That may soon change. “Rubin might directly discover Planet 9, providing definitive proof or debunking its existence,” Deppe mentions.
One mystery the telescope won’t unravel is the uncertain future of American scientific funding. Jointly funded by the U.S. Department of Energy and the National Science Foundation (NSF), the latter has faced proposed budget cuts exceeding 50%. When I inquired about its implications, staff at the observatory were uncertain. “I won’t speculate about the potential impact of the President’s fiscal year 2026 budget request,” an NSF spokesperson responded.
But inside the control room, funding debates can wait. Though midnight approaches, shifts are far from over. Scientists work diligently until 3 or 4 a.m., but weariness seems absent. Every so often, someone exclaims, “Look at these stunning images!”
The first publicly released image appeared on June 23rd, capturing a full view of the southern sky every three nights. “The entire idea is to construct an observatory capable of collecting all the data demanded by the scientific community worldwide.”
Vera C. Rubin Observatory is set to unveil new perspectives of the universe
Olivier Bonin/SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory
The atmosphere above Celopachen, a mountain in Chile standing over 2600 meters high, is sparse. Taking a trip up the stairs inside the dome of the Vera C. Rubin Observatory requires a breath. It’s cool, serene, immensely spacious—and then the entire dome rotates, revealing the sky.
As night envelops the landscape, the stars multiply, more abundant than I’ve ever witnessed. The Milky Way glows vibrantly, and I spot the small Magellanic Cloud, one of our galaxy’s companions. The Rubin telescope, however, dominates the scene—it’s massive, boasting the world’s largest digital cameras and lenses, with a weight of 350 tonnes. This reflective telescope gathers light through its mirror, with the largest mirror measuring 8.4 meters in diameter, designed to fit snugly through the 8.5-meter wide tunnel leading to the summit.
Despite its impressive heft, the telescope is swift, poised to transform our understanding of our solar system, galaxies, and the universe. Every three nights, it captures a survey of the Southern Sky. While previous sky investigations took weeks or months, Rubin accomplishes this in just half the time, providing a sort of cosmic time-lapse.
“By photographing the sky every three days, we can layer those images to delve deeper,” explains scientist Kevin Rail. “Thus, a decade from now, you’ll delve into the universe’s inner workings and its structure,” he adds.
Unraveling that structure is among the observatory’s goals, focusing on how dark matter distorts the universe. Bella Rubin, the namesake astronomer, pioneered this quest in the 1970s through galaxy rotation observations that indicated visible matter was but a fraction of what exists. She noted that stars at a galaxy’s edge were zipping by too quickly, contradicting Kepler’s Law, which suggested they should move at slower velocities compared to those near the galactic center.
After extensive observation and calculations, the conclusion was clear: an unseen entity must be present—this is now known as dark matter. Astronomers believe it comprises nearly five times more mass than visible matter, and its gravitational pull shapes the universe we observe.
“Visible matter actually traces dark matter’s gravitational field, not the other way around,” says Stephanie Deppe at the observatory. Galaxies are perceived to exist in what astronomers term the cosmic web, interlinked by dark matter filaments that capture the stars we can observe. Rubin’s images offer unparalleled views of this web.
This mapping effort aids in deciphering dark matter’s nature—whether it’s composed of hot, light, fast-moving particles or colder, aggregated ones. “We seek small disturbances, like kinks in stellar streams,” Deppe explains. These disturbances indicate sections where dark matter is concentrated within filaments. Understanding the mass from these observations refines our knowledge of dark matter’s characteristics. Moreover, deciphering the cosmic web’s structure can enhance our comprehension of dark energy, the force accelerating the universe’s expansion.
Summit staff will install the Vera C. Rubin Observatory’s commissioning camera in August 2024.
Rubin Observatory/NSF/AURA/H. Stockebrand
The enthusiasm for precision astronomy is palpable at the observatory. During my observation night, excitement buzzes through the air, particularly in the kitchen adjoining the control room. One of the operators, practically bouncing with energy, exclaims, “We hope the sky is clear tonight!” This term refers to opening the telescope shutter for imaging. “Indeed, we do,” replies a colleague, grinning over their tea. As twilight descends, we all hope for a cloudless sky.
When the clouds part, the control room buzzes with energy. An operator continues fine-tuning the telescope for optimum image focus. Every 30 seconds brings a new image, followed by the sound of the shutter opening and closing—like a hushed reverberation through the dome as it swiftly captures and moves on to the next section of the sky, constructing an intricate cosmic puzzle.
Suddenly, an unexpected glitch occurs. To maximize observational efficiency, the observatory employs an automated program that directs the telescope based on weather and moon phases, but this system stumbles momentarily. Operators venture through the rugged terrain alongside scientists at base camp, collaborating to troubleshoot the issue. After about 20 minutes, adjustments are made, and normal operations resume, with the rhythm of the shutter beginning anew.
“This is one of our best nights; everything is flowing smoothly—this data is excellent,” reveals Eli Rikov, the calibration scientist. “I’m optimistic the processors will produce high-quality scientific images.”
Once captured, images embark on a rapid journey around the globe. They traverse down the mountain on an extensive network of 103,000 km of fiber optic cables, reaching the Atlantic or Pacific Oceans before arriving in the US. Images pass through a central hub in Florida before arriving at the SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory in California.
Each captured image consists of about 32 gigapixels, roughly the equivalent of a 4K movie, and they arrive in approximately 10 seconds. William Omlan, overseeing data on the observation deck, then disseminates this data to facilities in the UK and France, ensuring it reaches scientists worldwide.
Most urgent analyses focus on rapidly moving celestial bodies. The night sky is in constant flux, exhibiting blips and changes in unpredictable patterns. The Rubin Observatory is uniquely equipped to capture these dynamic movements, allowing for near-real-time detection of rapidly changing objects. The telescope tracks asteroids and comets racing across the night sky, including those within the asteroid belt between Mars and Jupiter, as well as trans-Neptunian objects.
“Currently, we are aware of thousands of these objects,” says the Kuiper Belt and Oort Cloud researcher. “Rubin will likely increase that count tenfold.”
The observatory also plays a crucial role in monitoring potential threats from near-Earth objects, aiming to expand our knowledge from about 30,000 to an estimated 100,000. It has even succeeded in capturing fast-moving interstellar objects, such as Oumuamua, which passed through our solar system in 2017, and Borisov, which followed in 2019.
This extensive census of the solar system might also solve the enigma of Planet 9. Intriguing evidence suggests a body—5 to 10 times the mass of Earth—exists in the outer solar system, inferred from Kuiper Belt objects exhibiting peculiar yet similar orbits. Simulations propose that such a planet could be influencing these orbits, though direct evidence remains elusive.
That may soon change. “Rubin’s data will either uncover definitive evidence of Planet 9 or eliminate any existing doubts,” predicts Deppe.
However, there’s also uncertainty looming over American science funding. The observatory receives joint funding from the US Department of Energy and the National Science Foundation (NSF), the latter having faced draconian budget cuts proposed by over half. When I inquired about the potential implications, staff members seemed nonplussed. “I prefer not to speculate on the effects of the President’s budget request for fiscal year 2026,” an NSF spokesperson told me later.
For now, though, back in the control room, financial concerns take a backseat. Approaching midnight, the shift continues. Scientists work diligently until 3 am or 4 am, yet fatigue seems nonexistent. Occasionally, someone brightens the room with, “Look at these stunning images!”
The first published image emerged on June 23rd, showcasing a complete view of the southern sky obtained every three nights. “The vision is to create an observatory that can capture all the data the world wishes for.”
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is recognized as one of the more aggressive and challenging breast cancers to treat. Lacking the three standard hormonal markers associated with estrogen receptors, progesterone receptors, and HER2, this absence complicates the selection of effective treatment strategies for healthcare providers.
Researchers characterize TNBC as a collection of various diseases with distinct molecular characteristics that impact how the cancer manifests and its response to treatments. They utilize specific genes and gene products to categorize TNBC types. It is important to note that there are overlaps in the current classifications, which might be explained by the presence and levels of particular chemical molecules on the DNA. These molecules play a role in regulating whether genes are activated or deactivated in cells through processes known as DNA methylation.
In this study, researchers from Sweden explored how the distribution and patterns of DNA methylation delineate different forms of TNBC, influencing tumor behavior and interactions with the body’s immune system and its treatment responses. They analyzed 235 tumor samples from various patients in Sweden, ensuring that the data was refined to focus solely on cancerous cells rather than healthy tissue.
Employing a statistical technique known as Non-negative matrix factorization, they identified two primary categories of TNBC based on DNA methylation patterns: basal and nonbasal groups. This categorization aligns with previous classifications grounded in how cells interpret gene functions, termed gene expression. The basal group comprised tumors that were typically more active in immune responses and had a higher incidence of mutations linked to DNA repair issues, notably involving the common BRCA1 gene. Conversely, although the nonbasal group lacked hormone receptors, they exhibited increased activity in genes that influence hormonal responses.
Utilizing statistical assessments, the researchers subdivided each major group into smaller subtypes. Within the basal tumors, they identified three subgroups, referred to as basal1, basal2, and basal3, characterized by varying levels of immune cell activity and gene expression profiles. One specific subgroup, Basal3, demonstrated elevated expression of proteins that aid tumors in evading the immune system. The researchers found that specific DNA methylation patterns could activate or deactivate these proteins, indicating that patients with basal tumors might benefit from existing cancer treatments targeting this protein. The Basal2 subgroup expressed genes that inhibit immune activity, while the Basal1 subgroup displayed no significant immune-related behavior.
In the nonbasal category, researchers distinguished two subtypes: nonbasal1 and nonbasal2. Both of these subgroups were more prevalent among older patients and exhibited lower survival rates compared to the basal subgroup. The Nonbasal2 group encompassed tumors that influenced hormonal activity and responses to fatty treatments, whereas the Nonbasal1 group experienced more frequent disruptions in genes associated with tumor suppression.
Across all groups, researchers identified numerous genes whose methylation could modulate tumor growth and responses to the surrounding environment. To validate their findings in a broader context, they sourced independent tumor datasets from global databases and conducted similar classification analyses. They confirmed that the identified methylation subtypes appeared in other TNBC samples and correlated methylation patterns with tumor defense mechanisms, pinpointing strategies TNBC tumors may utilize to evade the immune system.
The researchers also acknowledged several limitations of their study. Their focus on DNA methylation represents just one of many chemical modifications that can influence TNBC behavior. Some of the independent datasets utilized originated from general breast cancer studies and were not exclusively focused on TNBC. Additionally, a significant portion of the data came from Western and Northern European populations, which may limit the applicability of the findings to individuals from other ethnicities. They emphasized the necessity for larger and more diverse datasets to gain a comprehensive understanding of TNBC subtypes.
In conclusion, the researchers posited that examining DNA methylation in patient samples could effectively categorize TNBC into meaningful subtypes, each with unique biological features, immune environments, and potential treatment responses. They recommended that future studies explore the origins of epigenetic modifications, such as DNA methylation, and how these alterations contribute to variations in TNBC subtypes.
The #MeToo movement against women’s sexual abuse gained traction in 2017, leading to what I term the #Anatomytoo moment, during which the derogatory anatomical label attached to female genitals was challenged and deemed unacceptable.
The long-used term for the vulva, referring to the external genitalia of women, was “Pudendum,” a word that historically reflected a biased view within the male-dominated medical field. Interestingly, “Pudendum” traces back to the Latin word Pudere, meaning “to be ashamed,” casting the female anatomy in a negative light as something shameful.
What’s even more unfortunate is that for centuries, “Pudendum” was applied equally to both men’s and women’s external genitals. Over time, men shed the associated stigma, leaving women to bear the burden of this label alone.
Consequently, it’s not surprising that many women feel discomfort regarding their genitals. A UK study revealed that 65% of young women struggle to use terms like “vulva” or “vagina.” This part of their own body often remains unnamed.
Names carry significant weight, as reflected in the evolution of the term “Pudendum.” As a result, it was removed from official anatomical terminology in 2019.
But “Pudendum” is just the surface issue in the broader context of male dominance in anatomy. Female anatomy features a considerable number of anatomical eponyms, which are body parts named after individuals, predominantly male.
A review of 700 anatomical terms identified that 424 were named after male doctors. Among the few exceptions, there was only one woman and several mythological figures and historical leaders, highlighting the gender imbalance.
This systemic patriarchy is unsurprising, given that in 1847, when many of these terms were coined, women were seldom represented in the study of internal anatomy, particularly regarding female reproductive organs.
For example, Gabriele Falloppio is commemorated in the namesake tube connecting the uterus to the ovaries, while Skene’s Glands, named after Alexander Skene, contribute to female ejaculation. The “G” in G-spot honors Ernst Gräfenberg, whereas Bartholin’s gland is named for Caspar Bartholin the younger, linked to sexual lubrication near the vaginal entrance.
The prevalence of masculine terminology is one reason why medical professionals increasingly favor more precise terms. For instance, Bartholin’s glands are referred to as the larger vestibular glands, and Skene’s glands are called paraglandular glands, while the fallopian tube is termed the uterine tube.
Despite this push for change, anatomical eponyms remain widely used in both medical practice and everyday language. Terms like “Fallopian Tube” have yet to be fully supplanted by more contemporary terminology. Moreover, even when linguistic adjustments are made, vestiges of the original terminology often stick around.
While “Pudendum” is eliminated, the equally charged term “Pudendal” survives, referring to female nerves, arteries, veins, and canals, perpetuating remnants of male-centric anatomical language. Most people remain unfamiliar with these terms.
Unlike “vagina,” which is derived from the Latin word for “sheath,” suggesting an alternative name of “vagina,” rebranding this term isn’t on the agenda. However, many still overlook the fact that other female reproductive parts also deserve recognition.
For pudendal nerves and arteries, only one term in the anatomical lexicon encapsulates their enduring stigma: it remains an embarrassment.
What has become of our cherished privacy? In today’s world, nearly every detail about us is known, traded, and exploited by social media platforms. Click. I have the amusing attire your self-righteous uncle crafted this morning. Click. I have a friend lamenting the promotion I missed out on. Click. Indeed, there are those strangers who will share their bedrooms with you—for a price.
One might expect a book titled Intimate with Strangers: Ascending and Descending in Private Life to provide opinions on this subject—but it does so in a way that is richer and more thoughtfully considered than most discussions you’ll find.
Author Tiffany Jenkins, a cultural historian, states, “Many attribute the rise of self-indulgent individuals broadcasting their lives online to narcissism, as well as tech companies that consume personal data, while overlooking the deeper changes at play.” This book explores those profound shifts.
Jenkins chronicles these developments primarily in the 20th century, revealing their multifaceted nature. The chapters address everything from the invasive capabilities of small cameras to the disruptive effects of Kodak Veeder to the significant implications of Bill Clinton’s affair with Monica Lewinsky, which turned private matters into political upheaval.
Key highlights include the narratives of radical American groups in the 1960s, such as Students for a Democratic Society (SDS), who advocated for personal freedom yet ironically curtailed it. One activist couple even faced criticism for the “crime” of “Flagrant Monogamy,” as SDS yearned for purer and more innocent participants.
Even scientific thinkers aren’t exempt from this narrative. The early 20th-century activism of Paul Lazarsfeld, Edward Bernays, and Ernest Dichter focused on transforming people into data points. Though they meant no harm, their work undermined the notion that certain aspects of life should remain private and untouchable by corporate interests. The same can be said for Alfred Kinsey’s notorious research into human sexuality. Is nothing sacred?
We have allowed our two worlds to be compromised and blurred. The private is increasingly becoming public.
However, privacy did not disappear outright in the 20th century. Instead, it adapted, evolved, and resisted. Jenkins references Griswold v. Connecticut (1965) and Katz v. United States, emphasizing that her analysis encompasses a complex mix of laws, cultures, technologies, and even housing policies.
Nonetheless, Jenkins concludes that privacy has indeed diminished overall, particularly as the first half of the book meticulously charts its decline.
The discussion begins with the revolutionary appeals for personal conscience by Martin Luther and Thomas More in the 16th century, tracing through various religious and personal freedoms of the 17th century. Intimate with Strangers thoroughly examines these developments over the centuries.
Specifically regarding the 18th century, Jenkins argues that it marked the “arrival of the public and private domains.” In fact, she posits that this evolution may overshadow all other Enlightenment developments. This is a historical account that offers novel insights into our shared past.
It ultimately brings us back to our increasingly surveilled reality. “Had there been a clear demarcation between public and private realms at the inception of the World Wide Web, our online landscape would be vastly different today,” Jenkins asserts. Since the 18th century, we’ve allowed for a blurring of lines where privacy increasingly encroaches upon public life.
And what do we stand to lose? Quite a lot—though not everything is gone. “Originality begins in private,” Jenkins reflects in the epilogue. From this, we can infer that Intimate with Strangers began with precious privacy.
Peter Hoskin is the book and culture editor for Prospect Magazine
New Scientist Book Club
Do you enjoy reading? Join a welcoming community of fellow book enthusiasts. Every six weeks, we delve into exciting new titles, providing members exclusive access to book excerpts, author articles, and video interviews.
Image captured by a Ukrainian drone during operation
upi/alamy
On June 1, Ukraine made headlines with a daring strike on Russian air bases. Utilizing inexpensive, compact drones concealed within trucks that had ventured deep into Russian territory, Ukraine successfully targeted numerous strategic bombers capable of carrying nuclear weapons, resulting in a loss of $7 billion in military assets.
The drone swarm operation, dubbed Operation Spider-Web, showcased remarkable military strategy while also exposing the vulnerabilities that defense leaders globally may soon confront.
“Currently, there’s a 100% likelihood of a small drone assault on air bases in the US or UK,” stated Robert Bunker, a consultant for US firm C/O Futures. “A group with intention and capability is needed. This is a very modest expectation.”
The Ukrainian security service SBU reported that 117 first-person view drones were deployed in the attack, each carrying several kilograms of explosives provided by racing quadcopters. Last year, countries produced approximately 1.5 million of these drones for battlefield applications, each costing a few hundred dollars. Although they typically have a range of about 20 km, Operation Spider-Web demonstrated their capability to reach target areas and operate remotely.
The assault did not catch US defense analysts off-guard. According to Zachary Karenbourne, who authored a 2019 analysis on potential threats to strategic bombers: “Ukraine’s operation had a much broader scope and impact than I anticipated. I initially believed such an attack was merely part of a larger assault on enemy nuclear assets, but Ukraine managed to neutralize 34% of its nuclear bomber fleet with an exceptionally coordinated effort.”
What steps should nations undertake to shield themselves against comparable assaults? Generally, there are three strategies: physical barriers, electronic defenses, and kinetic measures.
The initial approach seems straightforward—erect physical defenses to deter drones. Some Russian aircraft targeted by Ukraine were stationed in bays protected by concrete blast walls or earthen berms meant to shield against ground explosions. However, these measures do not safeguard against aerial strikes. Russia is currently racing to construct hardened aircraft shelters, which are costly, running into millions and sufficiently large for fighters. There was an assumption that larger strategic bombers could forgo this protection, as they were expected to remain distant from frontlines and threats.
Anti-drone nets represent a more economical solution and have been adopted by both Ukraine and Russia in battlefield scenarios. Reportedly, Russian authorities have recommended implementing such barriers in airspace. However, following the Ukrainian strike, the challenge is that these nets can be easily dismantled.
“The net provides decent defense against initial UAS [Uncrewed Aerial System] attacks,” Bunker notes. Yet, given the low cost of drones, attackers can launch a first wave to neutralize the net before proceeding with subsequent strikes.
What about electronic defenses? Both Russia and Ukraine are currently utilizing jamming technologies to disrupt the communication between drones and their operators. While this can be effective in wartime, jammers typically function over limited ranges, necessitating comprehensive coverage of the airbase. “They need to be deployed and monitored around the clock,” Bunker indicates.
This approach has its complications. The operations of Spider-Web employed commercial mobile networks, but attackers can utilize any frequency to command the drone, so blanket jamming of all channels might not be feasible. “Jammers can disrupt friendly communications,” warns Karenbourne. “To forestall such assaults, we may have to endure increased risks to our own operations.”
Moreover, the SBU claims that the drones were designed to anticipate jamming and were outfitted with AI systems enabling them to reach their targets autonomously. Such drones are virtually impervious to jamming.
This leaves kinetic measures as a final defense. Known as shooting down drones, Russian airfields were fortified against conventional aerial attacks via surface-to-air missile systems and mobile anti-aircraft units, but these were ill-equipped to detect or engage small drones.
“A weaponry system designed for this task demands advanced acquisition and targeting capabilities to be effective against armed drones,” Bunker states. “If operated by humans, they need to be distributed strategically across the facility for defense and manned continuously.”
Auto-defense mechanisms present promising options, and Ukraine is already deploying AI-driven anti-drone machine gun turrets to safeguard cities from Russian assaults involving substantial Shahed drones. However, at an expense of around $100,000 each, these turrets can be easily surpassed by smaller, more affordable drones utilized in the Spider-Web operation. “A swarm of drones could well succeed,” Karenbourne admits.
In summary, while there is no definitive solution, militaries urgently need to discover ways to mitigate this looming threat. A recent statement from a US Air Force General to the Senate Committee noted that in 2024 alone, over 350 unauthorized drones infiltrated military installations across the United States. Moreover, American bases in the UK have reported similar drone incursions.
“While many may be hobbyists, at least some are definitely adversaries,” adds Karenbourne. These hostile drones are likely engaging in intelligence-gathering rather than attempts to strike. “If we were in a conflict with China, that might change dramatically.”
This indicates that operations akin to Spider-Web could easily be replicated, in Russia or elsewhere. “This issue extends far beyond a significant vulnerability,” Bunker concludes. “Current defenses cannot be adequately reinforced. The situation is deteriorating rapidly.”
Throughout history, the effects of wear and tear, along with natural aging, have resulted in oil paintings displaying cracks, discoloration, and peeling pigments, leaving lasting marks.
Repairing such damage is typically reserved for the most treasured artworks, requiring years of meticulous effort. However, a new approach promises to revolutionize this process, enabling the restoration of aging pieces in a matter of hours.
This innovative technique utilizes artificial intelligence and advanced digital tools to create reconstructions of damaged paintings, which are subsequently printed on a transparent polymer sheet and applied over the original artwork.
To showcase this method, Alex Kachin, a graduate researcher from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, undertook the restoration of damaged panels attributed to a master Dutch painter of the late 15th century, whose identity remains unknown, following a piece by Martin Schongauer.
The artwork, rich in detail, is visibly segmented into four panels, marred by fine cracks and speckled with countless tiny paint losses.
“Much of the damage involves small, intricate details,” Kachin noted. “It has been deteriorating for centuries.”
Kachin initiated the process by scanning the painting to ascertain the dimensions, shapes, and locations of the damaged areas, identifying 5,612 individual sections requiring repair.
Following this, a digital mask was created using Adobe Photoshop. Missing paint spots were filled in, with surrounding pigment colors adjusted accordingly. Repairs to patterned sections involved duplicating similar patterns from other areas of the painting. For instance, a missing facial feature of a child was sourced from a different work by the same artist.
Close-ups illustrating the masking results. Photo: Alex Kachin, MIT
Once the mask was complete, it was printed on the polymer sheet and painted over, followed by a varnish application to ensure it harmonized with the painting.
In total, 57,314 colors were utilized to restore the damaged sections. The modifications were crafted to enhance the artwork even if slightly misaligned.
Upon seeing the results, Kachin expressed satisfaction. “We dedicated years to perfecting this method,” he remarked. “It was a significant relief to realize that this approach enabled us to reconstruct and piece together the surviving parts of the painting.”
This approach, as detailed in Nature, can only be applied to works featuring a smooth varnish that allows for flat application. The mask can be removed using conservator solvents without leaving marks on the original piece.
Kachin envisions this technique facilitating galleries in restoring and showcasing numerous damaged paintings that might otherwise lack the value warranting traditional restoration efforts.
Nonetheless, he recognizes the ethical considerations surrounding the use of film overlays on paintings, questioning whether they might disrupt the viewing experience and the appropriateness of features derived from other works.
In a related commentary, Professor Hartmut Kutzke from the Museum of Cultural History at the University of Oslo emphasized that this method enables quicker and more cost-effective recovery of damaged artworks compared to conventional methods.
“This technique is likely best suited for relatively low-value pieces kept in less visible locations, and may not be appropriate for renowned, high-value artworks,” he noted. “However, it could significantly increase public access to the arts, bringing damaged pieces out of storage and into the view of new audiences.”
While scientists pursuing cancer therapies find ample support, those researching diseases in potatoes face greater challenges in garnering attention and funding.
The Trump administration seems to have adopted the notion that many scientific pursuits are viewed as unnecessary or opaque, resulting in billions in proposed cuts to research funding.
Amidst this crisis, researchers are exploring innovative ways to garner public and political backing to counteract funding reductions.
A collective of Cornell graduate students aims to reshape public perceptions of science. They have enlisted over 500 researchers from all 50 states to write OP-EDs for local newspapers, which are set to be published next week. This initiative was proposed by Emma Scales, a Cornell doctoral student involved in the campaign.
“We’re engaging with people who are frustrated by the lack of transparency regarding funding allocations,” Scales explained. “I understand that I’m one of those who utilizes your resources. I apologize for not communicating better, but I’d appreciate feedback about my work.”
Isaco di Tomasi, Hannah Frank, Emma Scales, and Alex Rand lead the Cornell Policy Club, coordinating McClintock’s letters. Courtesy Emma Scale
The initiative, known as McClintock Characters, is one of several ongoing efforts by graduate students and faculty aimed at the same goal.
This reflects a mainstay belief that researchers cannot assume public support is a given. If proactive measures aren’t taken soon, many are beginning to realize that the public’s trust in scientists is waning, and funding may not be reinstated.
Science Homecoming letter-writing campaigns urge scholars to emphasize the importance of government investments in scientific endeavors. The new nonprofit, Stand Up for Science, is organizing demonstrations at State Fairs and Farmers Markets this summer, along with community Teach-Ins and Open Lab Days. Another new group, Your Neighborhood Scientist, publishes essays by researchers and fosters community-based dialogues about science.
Audrey Dorottos, a neuroscientist from the University of Pennsylvania and co-founder of Your Neighborhood Scientist, sees her work as a means for scientists to express their enthusiasm.
“We aren’t just contributing static noise; we aim to humanize scientists, which is a fundamental objective,” she said.
Di Tomasi is delving into the fungal disease that contributed to the potato famine in Ireland. Courtesy Isako di Tomassi
The motivation behind the McClintock letters emerged in February when Isako Di Tomassi, a plant pathology doctoral student, expressed his frustrations online after losing his PhD advisor at the US Department of Agriculture due to recent significant government layoffs.
While Di Tomassi encountered some sympathy online, one commenter remarked that funding cuts were beneficial since they halted “frivolous research,” and many others expressed confusion regarding the purpose of their studies.
Di Tomasi and Scales began brainstorming solutions through the Cornell Advanced Science and Policy Club to facilitate researchers sharing their narratives.
They organized these efforts in tribute to the late Nobel Prize-winning cytologist Barbara McClintock, timing their actions for her birthday on June 16. Her research altered scientists’ understanding of genetic inheritance in corn, laying the groundwork for advancements in treating genetic disorders in humans.
Barbara McClintock, a pioneer in genetic research at the Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory in Long Island, NY, circa 1947. AP
“Barbara McClintock is incredibly renowned,” Di Tomasi remarked.
Nevertheless, Di Tomasi noted that the aim is to bridge the gap between scientific professionals and public understanding, emphasizing that even routine experiments can be pivotal for medical and scientific advancements.
Researchers have committed to discussing a variety of topics, from breast cancer metastasis to memory formation and sustainable grape cultivation. Based on the collective audience sizes targeted by the organizers’ chosen news outlets, they anticipate reaching 8 million potential readers.
During a webinar on June 6, Katherine Xue, a microbiologist at the University of California, Irvine, guided about 100 participants on composing OP-EDs, using a 2015 OP-ED by Newt Gingrich advocating for increased research funding as a reference.
Xue encouraged participants to avoid technical jargon and to inject personal elements. She intends to write an article for her hometown newspaper in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, highlighting how her high school internships fueled her interest in microbiology.
“As scientists, we are conditioned to maintain a sense of detachment, but this approach has limitations,” Xue explained to NBC News. “Many people don’t see scientists as relatable, nor do they grasp what we are doing and why. This can lead to distrust in science.”
Recent surveys back up her assertions, revealing that while 76% of Americans express confidence in scientists, this number has dwindled from 87% in 2020, as reported by a Pew Research Center study. The report also noted that a majority of Americans believe scientists are poor communicators, and nearly half feel that scientists view themselves as superior.
The notion of supposedly frivolous research projects has long been a target for criticism. Some senators have highlighted what they perceive as wasteful spending in scientific research.
In a speech to Congress, Trump criticized what he considered absurdly funded projects backed by the Biden administration, including research misrepresented as making mice transgender (though in reality, it examined the effects of hormones on health and fertility). The White House defended the President’s comments.
In response to inquiries regarding the reduction of research funding, White House spokesperson Kush Desai stated that the administration is aligning with voter priorities. “The American people have tasked President Trump with recalibrating government expenditures to align with their values,” he clarified in an email. “The administration is committed to fulfilling this mandate.”
President Donald Trump criticized federally funded research during a congressional address on March 4th. Allison Robbert/AFP via Getty Images
For her upcoming book, Salmon Cannon and Floating Frog, Carly Ann York, an animal behaviorist at Lenore Lynn University in North Carolina, spotlighted several scientists who have faced scrutiny to advocate for their research.
One professor included in the book reacted with humor to the label “waste” applied to her research by participating in collaborative efforts with fellow scholars, like creating a mini science fair on Capitol Hill, to share research insights on shrimp combat inspiring new body armor designs for humans.
Carly Ann York became committed to scientific communication after grappling with explaining her studies on squid physiology to others years ago. Courtesy Carly York
“I hope more scientists adopt this mindset,” York stated. “It’s our responsibility to help the public comprehend how taxpayer money is utilized in research, what we do, and the impact of our work.”
Will the McClintock letters and similar initiatives achieve their intended results? While it’s uncertain how many students and faculty will participate, many participants hope their goals reach beyond immediate outcomes.
According to Michael Rubel, a physics professor at New York City College and a former Director of Public Relations for the American Physical Society, success hinges on sustained engagement with the public.
Rubel remarked that scientists should actively participate by attending community groups like Rotary clubs, churches, or PTA meetings.
“If researchers wait for the public to come to them, they will only engage a fraction of the population, and I doubt this will effect meaningful change,” he stated. “Meet audiences where they are. Understand what they value. You might be surprised.”
As stated by the new Minister of Industry and Science, Tim Ayles, Australia must either “aggressively pursue” the advantages of artificial intelligence or risk becoming “dependent on someone else’s supply chain.” The Labor government intends to impose further regulations on these rapidly advancing technologies.
Ayles, previously associated with a manufacturing union, recognized that there is significant skepticism surrounding AI in Australia. He emphasized the need for dialogue between employers and employees regarding the implications of automation in the workplace.
The minister insisted that Australia has “no alternative,” stating that the country is embracing new technologies while striving to become a global frontrunner in regulating and utilizing AI.
Ayers remarked to Guardian Australia, “The government’s responsibility is to ensure that we not only lean towards the opportunities for businesses and workers but also to be assured of our capacity to tackle potential challenges.”
“Australia’s strategy must prioritize regulation and strategy for the advantage of its people,” he added.
Ayers, who was elevated to Cabinet last month after serving in a junior role within manufacturing and trade, now leads the direction of the Labor Government’s flagship initiative. This comprehensive plan connects manufacturing, energy transition, research, and business policies.
Ayers faces immediate challenges regarding AI policy. His predecessor, Ed Husic, established critical frameworks focused on developing the local industry and setting essential guidelines for AI usage, which included discussions around new independent AI regulations.
Less than a month into his new role, Ayers stated that the government is still defining its actions, considering the rapid advancements in technology from similarly-minded countries. He indicated that the response would involve laws and regulations that have yet to be finalized, emphasizing the importance of swift action for Australia.
“There is no alternative but to adopt an Australian approach,” he asserted. “This approach dictates how we shape Australia’s digital future and how we ensure that we gain agency in technology development alongside global partners in these matters.
“The alternative is to remain passive and find ourselves at the mercy of someone else’s supply chain.”
The minister highlighted that Australia stands to “reap significant benefits” from AI adoption, particularly emphasizing increased productivity and economic growth. Ayers, who grew up on a cattle farm near Lismore, noted that both white-collar and blue-collar jobs have much to gain from automation and new technologies.
Drawing from his experience with manufacturing unions, he acknowledged the harsh reality that many workers have internalized the belief that the only more detrimental alternative would be for Australia to become a technological dead-end.
“However, I want to encourage companies and employers to consider the impact of AI adoption on enhancing job quality,” Ayers stated.
“Our industrial relations framework allows for adequate consultation and engagement at the corporate level, fostering discussions about these issues on an individual workplace basis.”
Recently, Australia’s Business Council released significant reports detailing Australia’s potential to emerge as a global leader in AI, enhancing productivity and boosting living standards through economic expansion.
“A recently published BCA document highlighted a significant level of skepticism among Australians regarding this new wave of technology, which is not unusual for our country,” Ayles remarked.
“Every wave of technological transformation shapes the labor market. This is a fact. The adverse consequences of technological evolution in employment have historically been outweighed by new investments and developments within employment and technology.”
Ayers also affirmed that the Labor party would sustain its forward agenda for Australia, emphasizing an “active” focus on boosting the production of key minerals, iron, and steel as part of the renewable energy transition.
“I am committed to doing everything in my power to establish new factories and enhance industrial capacities,” he stated.
“Specifically, areas like Central Queensland and Hunter and Latrobe have the opportunity to intersect with future energy benefits and industrial capabilities, permitting Australia to better support these communities as well.”
Astronomers have identified the largest known cloud of energy particles encircling galaxy clusters, with around 20 million annual clouds around the galaxy cluster PLCK G287.0+32.9.
This new composite image, created using X-rays from NASA’s Chandra X-Ray Observatory (blue and purple), radio data from Meerkat Radio Telescope (orange and yellow), and optical images from Panstarrs (red, green, and blue), illustrates the giant galaxy cluster PLCK G287.0+32.9. Image credit: NASA/CXC/CFA/Rajpurohit et al. / panstarrs / sarao / meerkat / sao / n. wolk.
Located 5 billion light years from Earth in the Hydra constellation, PLCK G287.0+32.9 has garnered astronomers’ attention since its initial detection in 2011.
Prior research uncovered two bright relics, revealing a massive shock wave illuminating the cluster’s edges. However, the extensive, faint radio emissions filling the space between them went unnoticed.
Recent radio images have shown that the entire cluster is enveloped in a faint radio glow that is nearly 20 times the diameter of the Milky Way, suggesting an extraordinary and powerful phenomenon at play.
“We anticipated finding a bright pair of relics at the cluster’s edge. Found “The Harvard & Smithsonian Astrophysics Center” mentioned: “The Harvard & Smithsonian’s Astrophysics Center is a great way to help you get started,” Dr. Kamursh Rajprohit, an astronomer at the Harvard & Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics, noted.
“No energy particle clouds of this magnitude have been spotted in such galaxy clusters or anything comparable.”
Previous record holders, located around Abel 2255 in the Galaxy Cluster, spanned about 16.3 million light years.
In the central region of the cluster, Dr. Rajprohit and his team identified radio halos where frequencies of this scale are typically undetectable, marking the first discovery of size at 114 million light years at 2.4 GHz.
The findings posed questions for the team, providing compelling evidence of magnetic fields where cosmic ray electrons and magnetic fields extend throughout the cluster.
However, it remains uncertain how these electrons can accelerate over such vast distances.
“Very extended radio halos are seldom visible across most frequencies, as the electrons responsible for them tend to lose energy. They are aged and have cooled over time,” Dr. Rajpurohit stated.
“The discovery of this colossal halo has now led to a significant increase in radio emissions between the catastrophic impact and the rest of the cluster.”
“This suggests something is actively accelerating or re-accelerating the electrons, yet none of the usual explanations apply.”
“We suspect that extensive shock waves and turbulence may be contributing factors, but additional theoretical models are needed to arrive at a definitive conclusion.”
This discovery offers researchers a new pathway to investigate cosmic magnetic fields—one of the primary unanswered questions in astrophysics—helping to elucidate how magnetic fields shape the universe on the largest scales.
“We’re beginning to perceive space in ways we have never imagined,” Dr. Rajprohit emphasized.
“This necessitates a reevaluation of how energy and matter traverse through its grandest structures.”
“Observations from NASA’s Chandra X-ray Observatory, managed by the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory, reveal boxy structures, comet-like tails, and several other distinct features of the cluster’s hot gas, indicating that the cluster is highly disturbed.”
“Some of these X-ray features correspond with radio-detected structures, pointing to substantial shocks and turbulence driven by merging events, facilitating electron acceleration or re-acceleration.”
“In the core of a cluster, some of these features may arise from the merger of two smaller galaxy clusters, or an explosion triggered by an exceptionally large black hole, or a combination of both.”
Disney and Universal have filed a lawsuit against an artificial intelligence company, claiming copyright violations. The entertainment titans have described the image generator behind Midi Johnny’s popular AI as a “bottomless pit of plagiarism,” alleging it replicates the studios’ most iconic characters.
The lawsuit, lodged in federal court in Los Angeles, accuses Midi Joan of illegally accessing two Hollywood studio libraries and creating numerous unauthorized copies of key characters, including Darth Vader from Star Wars, Elsa from Frozen, and Minions from Despicable Me. Midjourney has not yet commented on the matter.
This legal action from Disney and Universal marks a new chapter in the ongoing battle over copyright issues related to artificial intelligence, following prior lawsuits focusing on text and music. So far, these two companies are among the largest industry stakeholders to address the implications for images and videos.
“We are optimistic about the potential of AI technology when used responsibly to enhance human creativity; however, it’s crucial to recognize that piracy and copyright infringement carried out by AI companies is unacceptable,” stated a company representative.
Kim Harris, vice-chair and legal counsel at NBCUniversal, emphasized the need to “entertain and inspire while protecting the hard work of all artists who invest significantly in content.”
The studios assert that the San Francisco-based company, one of the pioneers in AI-driven image generation, must either cease infringing upon copyrighted works or implement technical measures to prevent the creation of AI-generated images of copied characters.
Nonetheless, studios claim that Midjourney continues to release updates to its AI image service, promoting high-quality infringing images. The AI is capable of recreating animated visuals based on user prompts. These companies train their models using vast datasets, often sourced from millions of websites.
In a 2022 interview with Forbes, Midjourney CEO David Holz mentioned that he built the company’s database through extensive “internet scraping.”
The lawsuit, initiated by seven entities holding the copyrights to various Disney and Universal Pictures Film Units, includes examples of AI-generated animations with Disney characters like Yoda wielding lightsabers, as well as universal characters such as the Dragon from Kung Fu Panda, Toothless, and Shrek.
“By leveraging plaintiffs’ copyrighted materials and distributing images (and soon videos) that unmistakably incorporate beloved characters from Disney and Universal, Midi Joan exemplifies a typical copyright-free rider, creating a bottomless pit of flexible liability,” the studios claim.
Disney and Universal are seeking a preliminary injunction to prevent Midjourney from continuing to copy their works or providing image and video generation services without protective measures against infringement, as well as unspecified damages.
Founded in 2021 by David Holz, Midjourney operates on a subscription model, boasting a revenue of $300 million from its services last year alone.
This isn’t the first instance of Midjourney facing accusations of leveraging artists’ works to train AI systems. Approximately a year ago, a federal judge in California found that 10 artists, alongside Stability AI and others, were in litigation against Midjourney, alleging that these companies had copied and stored their works on their servers, rendering them potentially liable for unauthorized use. This ruling allowed the lawsuit to proceed based on misuse of images, and it is currently ongoing.
This case is part of a larger trend of lawsuits involving authors, media organizations, and record labels against high-tech firms over the utilization of copyrighted materials for AI training.
When asked whether the company sought consent from artists whose works are copyrighted, Holz remarked, “It’s practically impossible to gather 100 million images and trace their origins.” In a submission to the UK government last year, OpenAI stated, “Training today’s leading AI models without the use of copyrighted materials is unfeasible.”
In late 2023, the New York Times filed a lawsuit against OpenAI, the developer of ChatGPT, along with Microsoft (which holds a 49% stake in the startup), for allegedly misusing and regenerating text from its articles. That suit is still pending. Other media outlets, including The Guardian, have negotiated licensing agreements with AI companies to use their archives. Similarly, authors have sued Meta, claiming it used a vast database of pirated books to train the LLaMA AI model, although many of those claims were dismissed.
In June 2024, major record companies filed lawsuits against two AI companies for copyright infringement. Sony Music Entertainment, Universal Music Group Recordings, and Warner Records accused Suno and Udio of improperly using millions of songs to create a system capable of generating derivative music.
Paleontologists employing a novel method of geographic analysis have theorized about the dispersion of paleo-ausauromorphs following the Permian mass extinction, one of the most significant climate events in Earth’s history.
The earliest pale aurauromorphs, akin to contemporary reptiles, are perceived by many synthetic biologists as existing in dead zones, believed to thrive only in select regions due to extreme heat prevalent in tropical zones.
In a recent study, paleontologist Joseph Flannery Sutherland from the University of Birmingham, along with his team, uncovered clues on how these reptiles traversed the globe during the Triassic period.
The researchers employed a novel modeling technique grounded in landscape reconstruction and evolutionary phylogenies.
Having survived the extinction event, Archosauromorphs became a crucial component of the Triassic Earth’s ecosystem, paving the way for the emergence of dinosaurs.
Current research indicates their later success can be attributed to their ability to traverse up to 16,000 km (10,000 miles) across tropical dead zones to explore new ecosystems.
“Despite being among the direst climatic events in Earth’s timeline, resulting in the death of more species than in any other epoch, life persisted,” remarked Dr. Flannery Sasherland.
“The group of Archosauromorphs emerged from this event and became key players in shaping life thereafter.”
“The gaps in their fossil records are beginning to reveal insights into aspects of these reptiles we previously overlooked.”
“By utilizing the modeling system, we created images representing the condition of Archosauromorphs amid these gaps and their dispersal across the ancient landscape.”
“This research examined topography and routes mapped through both spatial and temporal dimensions, which we have coined as our ‘Tardis’ approach.”
“Our findings suggest these reptiles exhibit remarkable resilience to the extreme climates of the Panguian tropical dead zone, enabling them to endure these harsh conditions and reach distant regions.”
“This capacity to thrive in inhospitable tropical environments likely gave them the edge necessary to prosper in the Triassic landscape.”
“While life has often been dictated by environmental factors, integrating the limited and uncertain knowledge of ancient terrains with the incomplete understanding of extinct species is challenging,” stated Professor Michael Benton from the University of Bristol.
“However, combining fossil data with reconstructed maps of the ancient world offers a means to address these challenges within the context of evolutionary trees.”
Study published in the journal Natural Ecology and Evolution.
____
JT Flannery-Sutherland et al. The phylogeny, described as a landscape, illuminates the ecological radiation of early paleoasauromorph reptiles. Nat Ecol Evol Published online on June 11th, 2025. doi:10.1038/s41559-025-02739-y
Certainly! Here’s a rewritten version of the content while preserving the HTML structure:
A recent study by astronomers utilizing the NASA/ESA Hubble Space Telescope aimed to uncover signs of interaction between Uranus’ magnetic environment and the surfaces of its four largest moons: Ariel, Umbriel, Titania, and Oberon. The researchers predicted that, due to interactions with Uranus’ magnetosphere, the “leading” sides of these tidally locked moons should be brighter and more consistently illuminated compared to their “trailing” sides. This expectation stemmed from the belief that radiation darkening occurs on the trailing sides due to charged particles, such as electrons, captured in Uranus’ magnetosphere. However, their observations revealed no evidence of darkening on the trailing sides of the moons but found evident darkening on the leading side of the outer moon instead.
This web image displays Uranus alongside six of its 27 known moons (most of which are too small to be captured in this brief exposure). Image credits: NASA/ESA/CSA/STSCI/J. DEPASQUALE, STSCI.
Ariel, Umbriel, Titania, and Oberon are tidally locked, consistently presenting the same faces toward Uranus.
The hemisphere of the moon that faces the direction of its orbit is termed the leading hemisphere, while the side that turns away is the trailing hemisphere.
The initial hypothesis suggested that charged particles captured along the magnetic field lines would hit the trailing sides of each moon, leading to darkening of those hemispheres.
“They are working diligently to understand this phenomenon,” noted Dr. Richard Cartwright, a researcher affiliated with the Institute of Applied Physics at Johns Hopkins University.
“To start, Uranus has an axial tilt of 98 degrees relative to its orbit.”
“This significant tilt means Uranus is dramatically askew in relation to the planetary orbital plane. Completing its 84-year orbit, it rolls quite slowly around the sun.”
“Observations during the Voyager 2 flyby indicated that Uranus’ magnetosphere was tilted about 59 degrees from the satellite’s orbital plane, suggesting a further inclination in the magnetic field.”
Uranus’ magnetic field lines rotate more swiftly than the moons orbit the planet, resulting in the magnetic field lines continuously sweeping by the moons.
If the Uranus magnetosphere interacts with the moons, the charged particles should preferentially strike the surface of the leading side.
These charged particles and cosmic rays from our galaxy could potentially cause darkening effects on the trailing hemispheres of Ariel, Umbriel, Titania, and Oberon, which could lead to the presence of carbon dioxide detected on these moons.
Astronomers anticipated that the trailing hemispheres would show greater darkness compared to the leading ones, particularly for the inner moons, Ariel and Umbriel.
However, the findings contradicted this expectation, revealing that the leading and trailing hemispheres of both Ariel and Umbriel are quite similar in brightness.
Conversely, researchers noted observable differences in the outer moons, Titania and Oberon.
In an intriguing twist, the brightness variations were opposite to their hypotheses.
Both outer moons exhibit a darker, reddish leading hemisphere contrasted against their brighter trailing hemispheres.
The research team suspects that dust from Uranus’ irregular satellites coats the leading hemispheres of Titania and Oberon.
Irregular satellites are celestial bodies characterized by large, eccentric, and inclined orbits inrelation to their parent planet’s equatorial plane.
Constant impacts from micrometeorites on Uranus’ irregular satellites eject small particles into orbits around the planet.
Over millions of years, this particulate matter drifts inward towards Uranus, eventually crossing the orbits of Titania and Oberon.
These outer moons effectively collect this dust, particularly on their leading hemispheres.
It’s analogous to an insect striking the windshield of a car as it drives down the freeway.
This accumulated material results in Titania and Oberon exhibiting darker, reddish leading hemispheres.
These outer moons appear to shield Ariel and Umbriel from dust, resulting in no noticeable brightness differences for the inner moons.
“I believe a similar process occurs within the Saturn system and possibly the Jupiter system,” stated Dr. Brian Holler, an astronomer at the Institute of Space Telescope Science.
“This represents some of the first evidence we’ve gathered regarding material exchanges between Uranus’ moons.”
“It supports an alternative theory involving dust accumulation. I wasn’t initially inclined to accept this hypothesis, but the data often takes you by surprise,” Dr. Cartwright remarked.
These revelations lead scientists to suspect that Uranus’ magnetosphere may possess a more complex structure than previously assumed.
While there may be interactions between Uranus’ moons and its magnetosphere, they do not seem to yield the predicted asymmetries in the leading and trailing hemispheres, contrary to initial expectations.
Unraveling this mystery will necessitate further exploration into the enigmatic Uranus, its magnetosphere, and its moons.
This revised text maintains the original HTML structure while presenting the information in a different manner.
Astronomers utilizing the NASA/ESA/CSA James Webb Space Telescope have discovered a silicate cloud in the atmosphere of the exoplanet YSES-1C and a disk in the evasion facility surrounding the planet YSES-1B.
Artist rendering of the YSES-1 system, featuring a central sun-like star, YSES-1B with its dusty evasive disc (right), and YSES-1C’s atmospheric silicate clouds. Image credit: Ellis Bogut.
YSES-1 is a solar-type star located approximately 309 light-years away in the constellation of Masca.
Also referred to as TYC 8998-760-1 or 2mass J13251211-6456207, this star is roughly equivalent in mass to our Sun but is only 16.7 million years old.
The system comprises two planets, YSES-1B and YSES-1C.
These planets orbit their parent star at distances of 160 and 320 AU, making them more distant from their star than Jupiter and Saturn are from the Sun.
YSES-1B and C could exhibit redder hues compared to other exoplanets (or brown dwarfs), indicating distinct atmospheric properties.
While the system has been observed with various telescopes before the Webb, comprehensive observations were not achievable prior to the Webb program.
“Directly imaged exoplanets are the only types we can truly photograph,” stated Dr. Ebert Nazkin, a postdoctoral researcher at Trinity College Dublin.
“Typically, these exoplanets are younger, hotter from their formative layers, and astronomers observe this heat in the thermal infrared spectrum.”
Utilizing Webb’s spectroscopic capabilities, Dr. Nasedkin and his team obtained detailed spectra of the planets YSES-1B and YSES-1C.
These observations include the first direct detection of atmospheric silicate clouds on YSES-1C, validating prior hypotheses regarding its atmospheric structure.
These silicate clouds likely contain iron, which might contribute to rainfall on the planet.
Astronomers estimate that the cloud particles are less than 0.1 μm in size.
“Upon observing a smaller, more distant companion identified as YSES-1C, I detected a silicate cloud signature in the mid-infrared,” Dr. Nasedkin remarked.
“Composed primarily of sand-like particles, this represents the strongest silicate absorption feature documented in an exoplanet.”
“We believe this is connected to the planet’s youth. Younger planets tend to have slightly larger radii, and this expanded atmosphere enables clouds to absorb more light emitted by the planet.”
“We were able to employ detailed modeling to uncover the chemical makeup of these clouds as well as the size and shape of the cloud particles.”
The team also identified silicate disks surrounding YSES-1B, marking a rare observation of a substellar companion exoplanet.
This finding suggests that YSES-1B may be a relatively recently formed planet.
The discoveries enhance our understanding of the early stages of planetary formation and atmospheric development.
“The planets within the YSES-1 system are so widely separated that current formation theories cannot explain them. The discovery of distinct silicate clouds around YSES-1C and additional findings of small, hot, dusty materials around YSES-1B introduces further mystery and complexity regarding how planets form and evolve.”
The team’s results will be featured in the journal Nature this week.
____
kkw hoch et al. Silicate cloud and evasive agent disks in the YSES-1 exoplanet system. Nature Published online on June 10th, 2025. doi:10.1038/s41586-025-09174-w
The newly discovered tyrannosaurid species, scientifically named Khankhuulu Mongoliensis, is recognized as the most notable ancestor of Tyrannosaurus Rex.
Khankhuulu Mongoliensis. Image credit: Julius Csotonyi.
Khankhuulu Mongoliensis roamed the Earth during the Cretaceous period approximately 86 million years ago.
This dinosaur was a medium-sized, swift predator that emerged after the extinction of other large predatory dinosaurs.
As the most famed ancestor, it exhibited numerous similarities with the later Tyrannosaurus descendants.
Resembling the size of a horse (750 kg), Khankhuulu Mongoliensis was two to three times smaller than its colossal descendants.
It featured small rudimentary horns that evolved into more significant attributes in species like Albertosaurus or Golgosaurus, likely used for mating displays and intimidation.
Characterized by a long, shallow skull, Khankhuulu Mongoliensis lacked the bone-crushing capabilities seen in Tyrannosaurus Rex.
This new species can be likened to mesopredators, similar to modern coyotes, utilizing speed and agility to capture prey.
“Khankhuulu Mongoliensis offers invaluable insights into the early stages of Tyrannosaurus evolution. We’ve observed numerous intriguing challenges in their evolutionary history,” remarked Jared Voris, a paleontologist at the University of Calgary.
Two partial skeletons of Khankhuulu Mongoliensis were discovered in the Baiansily Formation in southeastern Mongolia during 1972 and 1973.
Analysis of the specimens indicates that this new species is a close relative of the dinosaur group eutyrannosauria, serving as a direct ancestor to the giant, long-snouted tyrannosaurs and the shallower-nosed Ariolamini clade.
“Khankhuulu Mongoliensis or closely related species likely migrated from Asia to North America approximately 85 million years ago,” stated Dr. Darla Zelenitsky, Ph.D. from the University of Calgary.
“Our findings suggest that a large-scale tyrannosaur was the first to evolve in North America due to this immigration event.”
“The results indicate that the migratory patterns of tyrannosaurs between Asia and North America were less frequent and more erratic than previously understood.”
“Khankhuulu Mongoliensis or its relatives crossed the land bridge into North America, eventually evolving into the iconic apex predator, Tyrannosaurus Rex.
The fossil record indicates that Tyrannosaurus was exclusive to North America for millions of years before its lineage split in Asia, leading to two distinct groups.
One lineage evolved into larger apex predators, ultimately resulting in Tyrannosaurus Rex, while another developed into medium-sized, elongated species dubbed Pinocchiolex.
The discovery of Khankhuulu Mongoliensis is detailed in a study published in the journal Nature.
____
JT Voris et al. The evolution of the new Mongolian tyrannosaur and Euthiranosaur. Nature published online on June 11th, 2025. doi:10.1038/s41586-025-08964-6
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) revealed on Wednesday its intention to lift current limitations on greenhouse gas emissions from coal and gas-fired power plants.
EPA administrator Lee Zeldin stated at a press conference that the carbon pollution standards established during the Biden administration “stifle” economic growth in the name of environmental protection. Zeldin, who was appointed by President Donald Trump in January, emphasized that this announcement marks significant progress in US energy management and reassured that the agency would not allow power plants to generate more electricity than they currently do. Presently, the electricity sector represents a quarter of total US emissions. Latest EPA Emissions Data.
Zeldin also indicated that the EPA plans to roll back regulations related to mercury emissions from power plants set by the Biden administration.
Environmental advocates argue that the EPA’s proposal intensifies the Trump administration’s ongoing efforts to reshape climate initiatives across various federal agencies, including the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the Department of Energy, and the National Weather Service. In 2024, the Biden administration confirmed its commitment to address the climate crisis with the most stringent carbon pollution standards for power plants to date, which now face an uncertain future.
Gina McCarthy, who served as EPA administrator under President Joe Biden, described Zeldin’s announcement as a “political maneuver” in a statement on Wednesday that dismissed a “decade of scientific research and policy evaluation.”
“By allowing increased pollution, his legacy will be defined by those who cater to the fossil fuel industry at the cost of public health,” McCarthy stated.
On January 25th, Jeffrey Energy Center’s coal-fired power plant near Emmett, Kansas. Charlie Riedel / AP file
“Science and daily observations tell us that removing pollution standards on the largest industrial gas polluters in the United States is a mistake,” stated Jill Tauber, vice president of climate and energy litigation at Earthjustice, a nonprofit currently involved in litigation against the Trump administration over various environmental rollbacks.
US power plants are significant sources of global carbon emissions. A report from the Institute of Policy Integrity at New York University indicates that if the US electricity sector were treated as a separate nation, it would rank as the sixth largest emitter worldwide.
During the first Trump administration, the EPA loosened several Obama-era greenhouse gas regulations for power plants, but this latest announcement marks a shift towards completely eliminating such standards. Zeldin is following through on his commitment made in March to challenge the “religion of climate change” by revisiting or rescinding 31 regulations related to tailpipe emissions, coal ash, and wastewater management from oil and gas.
The proposed regulations, which are now open for public commentary, are facing scrutiny from legal advocates and environmental organizations like the Natural Resources Defense Council. They contend that the EPA has a legal obligation to regulate greenhouse gas emissions.Legal precedent mandates that greenhouse gases be controlled by the EPA under the Clean Air Act.
“We are closely monitoring whether the EPA will remove these crucial standards based on legal reasoning that is likely to be unviable,” remarked Meredith Hawkins, Federal Climate Law Director for the Natural Resources Defense Council. “The NRDC is prepared to take legal action to ensure our right to breathe clean air is upheld.”
Reducing historic limits on greenhouse gas emissions from power plants could significantly influence global climate change, as well as have adverse effects on human health and the economy.
Harvey Writer, a lawyer and law professor at George Washington University, expressed hope that if the EPA pursues its planned deregulation, energy companies and utilities committed to renewable energy investments will challenge the Trump administration in court.
“The primary consequence of the proposed regulations is uncertainty and instability,” he stated. “It leaves stakeholders unsure about the next steps ahead. This complicates investment choices and affects job-related decisions, generating widespread market uncertainty.”
Greenhouse gas emissions from power plants extend beyond climate concerns. The combustion of fossil fuels emits carbon dioxide and various air pollutants, including nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide, mercury, and particulate matter. These pollutants are linked to higher instances of respiratory ailments and cardiovascular disease. Regulating carbon emissions from power plants can lead to a broader reduction in air pollution for communities near these facilities, according to Laura Kate Bender, vice president of national advocacy and public policy at the American Lung Association.
“This is a dual-edged sword. On the one hand, fossil fuel-fired power plants exacerbate climate change while simultaneously causing health issues,” Bender noted. “Climate change is a public health crisis, and mitigating carbon emissions in the electricity sector is crucial to addressing this emergency.”
Since the uproar surrounding the immigration attacks in Los Angeles began, a wave of inaccurate and misleading claims about ongoing protests has proliferated across text-based social networks. As Donald Trump significantly ramped up federal involvement, falsehoods shared on social media intertwined with misinformation propagated through channels established by the White House. This blend of genuine and deceptive information creates a distorted representation of a city that strays from the truth.
Various regions in Los Angeles have experienced substantial protests over the last four days in response to intensified immigration policies from the US presidential administration. Dramatic images circulated on Saturday from downtown Los Angeles depicted a car ablaze amid clashes with law enforcement. Many posts fostered the impression that chaos and violence engulfed the entirety of Los Angeles, despite the fact that disturbances remained limited to specific areas within the sprawling city. Trump sent 2,000 National Guard troops to the city without the consent of California Governor Gavin Newsom, who has prompted the state to sue over this alleged infringement of sovereignty. Additionally, Defense Secretary Pete Hegses has ordered approximately 700 Marines to be deployed to the city.
As misinformation proliferates amid both street-level and legal confrontations, the intersection of lies and conflict is evident. Social media often acts as a catalyst for the spread of falsehoods, a trend noted during recent wildfires in Los Angeles, catastrophic hurricanes, and the COVID-19 pandemic.
Among the most egregious disinformation is the circulation of a video featuring Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum by conservative Russian accounts, leading into the protests and inciting the demonstrations showcased on the Mexican flag, as reported by the misinformed Watchdog News Guard. These misleading posts — crafted by Benny Johnson on Twitter/X, referencing pro-Trump outlets like wltreport.com and Russian state media RG.RU — garnered millions of views, according to the organization. On June 9th, Sheinbaum stated to reporters:
Posts about bricks stir up a mixture of real and fake news
Conspiracy-minded conservatives are quick to latch onto familiar tropes. A post on X claimed that the “Soros Funding Organization” had garnered over 9,500 retweets regarding brick pallets near Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE) facilities, racking up more than 800,000 views. George Soros remains a recurring figure in right-wing conspiracy narratives, with the post similarly implicating LA Mayor Karen Bass and California Governor Gavin Newsom in the supposed shortage of supplies.
I encountered a post that read, “It’s a civil war!!!”
The images of stacked bricks originate from a Malaysian construction supplier, and the myth that these bricks were distributed to protesters dates back to the 2020 Black Lives Matter demonstrations. Users on X shared insights regarding the “Community Notes,” while X’s built-in AI chatbot Grok also provided fact-checks in response to inquiries about the authenticity of the post.
In response to the hoax imagery, some X users shared a link to Real footage showing protesters slamming concrete bollards, intertwining truths and falsehoods, and obscuring the reality of the situation. Independent journalists who showcased the footage claimed it depicted projectiles hurled at police, although the footage revealed no such actions.
The Social Media Lab, a research group at Toronto Metropolitan University, was referenced in Blueski.
Trump and the White House are covered in mud
Trump himself fueled narratives suggesting that the protests were orchestrated and dominated by external agitators lacking genuine concern for local issues.
“These individuals are not protesters; they are troublemakers and anarchists,” Trump asserted on Truth Social, later screenshot and shared by Elon Musk on X. Others within the administration echoed similar sentiments on social media.
Los Angeles Times reporter noted that the White House claimed certain Mexican citizens had been arrested for assaulting an officer “during the riot.” However, it was established that customs and border protection agents had detained him prior to the protest’s commencement.
Sowing misleading information and fostering distrust
Trump has escalated the frequency of ICE raids nationwide, amplifying deportation fears throughout Los Angeles. Anti-ICE posts are also circulating misinformation, according to the Social Media Lab. One concerning post on Blueski, labeled “breaking,” alleged that a federal agent had just arrived at an LA elementary school seeking to interrogate first graders, when in reality, the incident occurred two months prior. Researchers have identified such posts as “Rage-Farming to Push Merch.”
The conspiracy platform Infowars has initiated a broadcast on X titled “Live Watch: LA ICE Riots Spread Across Major Cities Nationwide.” While protests against deportation have emerged in various locations, the level of confusion observed in Los Angeles is unmatched. The broadcast attracted 13,000 viewers simultaneously as X, a Los Angeles news service, aired coverage four nights after the immigration protest.
The spread of erroneous reporting undermines X’s credibility as a news platform, yet it continues to promote itself as the leading news application in the US, or more recently, in Qatar. Older images and videos are combined with new to instill doubts about legitimate news. After taking over Twitter in late 2022, Musk has endorsed user-generated fact-checking via the “Community Notes” feature, but has dismantled numerous internal avenues designed to counter misinformation. Particularly with the 2024 US presidential election approaching, researchers indicate that Musk himself has become a significant facilitator of misinformation, posting and resharing misleading claims that garnered around 2 billion views on numerous occasions. The Center for Countering Digital Hate.
Observations from the spacecraft have revealed the presence of both Arctic and Antarctic magnetic fields in the Sun’s southern hemisphere. This complex magnetic configuration is predicted to persist only temporarily during the solar maximum before undergoing a magnetic field reversal.
The European Space Agency (ESA) states that as the Sun transitions to its quieter solar minimum phase, this accumulation at the poles should occur gradually over time.
“The precise mechanics of this accumulation are still not fully understood. However, the Solar Orbiter has reached high latitudes at a crucial time to observe the entire process from a unique vantage point,” explains Sami Solanki, director of the Max Planck Institute for Solar Systems Research in Germany and a scientist working with the Solar Orbiter project.
While scientists have previously captured close-up images of the Sun, these were primarily taken from the Sun’s equator by various spacecraft and observatories.
The Solar Orbiter’s mission included a journey through the cosmos, featuring a close flyby of Venus, which allowed the spacecraft to tilt its orbit for a better view of the Sun’s higher latitudes.
The recently released image was captured in late March when the Solar Orbiter was positioned 15 degrees below the Sun’s equator, shortly followed by another observation at 17 degrees below the equator.
“We had no clear expectations for these initial observations. The Sun’s polarity is truly uncharted territory,” Solanki stated, as mentioned in a statement.
Launched in February 2020, the Solar Orbiter mission is a collaborative effort led by Europe in conjunction with NASA.
In the coming years, the Solar Orbiter’s trajectory is expected to tilt even more, providing increasingly direct views of the solar polar regions. According to ESA, the most impressive observations may still be on the horizon.
“This data will transform our understanding of solar magnetic fields, solar winds, and solar activity,” states Daniel Muller, the Solar Orbiter project scientist at ESA.
The Minion character originates from films produced by Universal Pictures.
Movie/Aramie
Disney and Universal have initiated a lawsuit against the AI image generator Midjourney, alleging widespread copyright infringement that enables users to produce images that “explicitly incorporate and mimic well-known Disney and Universal characters.” This lawsuit could mark a significant shift in the ongoing legal discourse surrounding AI-related copyright issues faced by book publishers, news outlets, and other content creators.
The Midjourney tool, which generates images based on textual prompts, boasts around 20 million users on its Discord platform. Users provide their input for creation.
In the lawsuit, the two film production giants provide examples where Midjourney can generate images surprisingly similar to characters it does not own rights to, like the Disney-owned Minions and characters from The Lion King. They assert that these results stem from the AI being trained on their copyrighted materials. They also contend that Midjourney “disregarded” their attempts to resolve these issues before resorting to legal action.
The complaint states, “Midjourney is a classic copyright-free rider and an endless source of plagiarism.” Midjourney has not yet issued a response to New Scientist‘s request for comment.
The lawsuit is applauded by Ed Newton Rex, a nonprofit advocate for fairer training practices within AI companies. “This is a monumental day for creators globally,” he comments. “The government has displayed unsettling tendencies toward legalizing intellectual property theft, potentially yielding to the intense lobbying from Big Tech.
Newton-Rex alleges that Midjourney engineers previously justified their actions on the grounds that the art had become “ossified.” “Fortunately, this absurd defense is unlikely to hold up in court,” he adds.
Legal experts express candid perspectives on Midjourney’s likelihood of success. “It’s Disney; thus, Midjourney is in a precarious position, please excuse my bluntness,” remarks Andres Guadams from the University of Sussex, UK.
Guadams emphasizes Disney’s resolute approach to safeguarding its intellectual property—rarely, but effectively—underscoring the necessity of this intervention. The film studio took action several months following other entities, such as news publishers, in their pursuit against AI companies for the alleged unauthorized use of their creations. Many of those disputes were resolved through licensing agreements between the AI firms and copyright holders.
“Media conglomerates are excited about potential breaches. The models have improved to such an extent that they can effortlessly create characters that come to mind,” states Guadams. He believes Disney is biding its time because “unlike publishers, they’re not simply seeking licenses to survive.”
The involvement of these two media powerhouses signals a pivotal moment at the intersection of AI and copyright, according to Guadams. “The fact that they are targeting Midjourney sends a clear message,” he states. Midjourney specializes in image generation exclusively, making it relatively small compared to major AI corporations. “This acts as a warning to larger entities, urging them to implement stronger protective measures.”
While many major AI companies incorporate image-generating features in their chatbots, they tend to impose stricter controls on users’ abilities to produce images featuring copyrighted characters through considerable limitations.
Disney, which generated $91 billion in revenue last year, is not seeking to profit from Midjourney. “This could act as a call for negotiations. Since AI is not going away, Disney may be setting a precedent for future business interactions,” notes Guadams.
The entrepreneur expressed that she felt “humiliated” after departing from London Tech Week, the annual corporate gathering, while accompanying her baby daughter.
Davina Schonle was barred from entering the event on Monday after a three-hour journey of eight months and had to forgo a meeting with potential high-tech startup suppliers.
Schonle recounted to TheBusinessDesk.com that upon arriving at the entrance with her daughter in the stroller, she was asked if she was a VIP. She was informed that she could not enter with the baby. After attempting to retrieve her badge, she was redirected to an Informa State organizer who stated they lacked insurance.
This incident incited outrage and cast a pall over the event. Prime Minister Kiel Starmer addressed the gathering on the same day Schonle was denied entry. The tech industry is striving to distance itself from accusations of sexism and the perception that women are seen as second-class.
Schonle mentioned that this experience highlighted her worst fears regarding being a woman in this sector. She is the founder and CEO of HumanVantage AI, a startup leveraging AI technology to create conversational role-play corporate training platforms.
In a widely shared LinkedIn Post, Schonle remarked: “This moment was inconvenient, serving as a stark reminder that within the tech industry, we still have progress to make regarding inclusion beyond mere buzzwords.”
“Parents are integral to this ecosystem. Caregivers are innovators, founders, investors, and leaders. If a significant event like London Tech Week cannot accommodate them, what message does that send about who truly belongs in technology?”
London Tech Week, organized by Global Events Company Informa, addressed the situation in a statement: “We are aware that one of the participants was not allowed entry with children. As a business event, the venue is not equipped to accommodate specific needs, facilities, and safety measures for those under the age of 16.”
“We are appreciative of everyone’s support in the tech community during London Tech Week. We have reached out to the involved parties to discuss the incident and will use this experience to improve our approach at LTW in the future.”
Julia Hobbsbohm, a businesswoman and commentator on entrepreneurship and work-life balance, reacted to Schonle’s LinkedIn post, remarking: London Tech Week “The worst kind of tin ears.”
One of the most significant yet frequently overlooked success stories of this century is the increasing number of individuals who are surviving cancer.
Several of these improvements can be attributed to reduced smoking rates and the establishment of national screening programs for various types of cancer. Additionally, advancements in treatment options have introduced groundbreaking therapies, especially in immunotherapy, encompassing monoclonal antibodies, checkpoint inhibitors, and cancer vaccines.
Medications that focus on the interaction between cancer and our neurons show promising results
However, not all is positive. Despite encouraging advances, the incidence of cancer continues to rise, and there are indications that improvements in survival rates are slowing. To witness the extraordinary progress made thus far, one may need to reevaluate cancer from an entirely different perspective.
Fortunately, an emerging field known as cancer neuroscience may provide that new perspective, as detailed in a recent cover story. The realization that nerves play a crucial role in cancer proliferation and dissemination introduces a novel approach to treatment. Drugs designed to target the interaction between cancer cells and our neurons are already showing promise in clinical trials and are being hailed as potential breakthroughs in cancer therapy.
If cancer neuroscience leads to the next major breakthrough, the resulting drugs could be surprisingly affordable and accessible. For instance, some widely used beta blockers are currently under research.
This development is particularly welcome in light of the fact that many newer therapies can become prohibitively expensive, and challenges still exist in ensuring equitable, swift, and affordable access to optimal cancer treatments.
Reports indicate that Meta is preparing to unveil a substantial $15 billion (£11 billion) bid aimed at achieving computerized “Superintelligence.”
The competition in Silicon Valley to lead in artificial intelligence is intensifying, even as many current AI systems show inconsistent performance.
Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg is set to announce the acquisition of a 49% stake in Scale AI, which is led by King Alexandre and co-founded by Lucie Guo. This strategic move has been described by one analyst in Silicon Valley as a “wartime CEO” initiative.
Superintelligence refers to an AI that can outperform humans across all tasks. Currently, AI systems have not yet achieved the same capabilities as humans, a condition known as Artificial General Intelligence (AGI). Recent studies reveal that many prominent AI systems falter when tackling highly complex problems.
Following notable progress from competitors like Sam Altman’s OpenAI and Google, as well as substantial investments in the underperforming Metaverse concept, observers are questioning whether Meta’s renewed focus on AI can restore its competitive edge and drive meaningful advancements.
Meta’s initiative has sparked fresh calls for the European government to embark on its own transparent research endeavors, ensuring robust technological development while fostering public trust, akin to the Swiss CERN European Nuclear Research Institute.
Michael Wooldridge, a professor at the Oxford University Foundation for Artificial Intelligence, stated, “They are maximizing their use of AI. We cannot assume that we fully understand or trust the technology we are creating. It’s crucial that governments collaborate to develop AI openly and rigorously, much like the importance of CERN and particle accelerators.”
Wooldridge commented that the reported acquisition appears to be Meta’s effort to reclaim its competitive edge following the Metaverse’s lackluster reception, noting that the company invested significantly in that venture.
However, he pointed out that the state of AI development remains uneven, with AGI still a distant goal, and “Superintelligence” being even more elusive.
“We have AI that can achieve remarkable feats, yet it struggles with tasks that capable GCSE students can perform,” he remarked.
Andrew Rogoiski, director of partnerships and innovation at the University of Surrey’s People-centered AI Institute, observed, “Meta’s approach to AI differs from that of OpenAI or Humanity. For Meta, AI is not a core mission, but rather an enabler of its broader business strategy.”
“This allows them to take a longer-term view, rather than feeling rushed to achieve AGI,” he added.
Reports indicate that King is expected to take on a significant role within Meta.
Meta has chosen not to comment at this time. Scale AI will be reached for additional comments.
ESA & NASA/SOLAR ORBITER/PHI Team, J. Hirzberger (MPS)
Thanks to the groundbreaking Solar Orbiter spacecraft, I had my first glimpse of the Antarctic region of the Sun. These images and other observations aim to enhance our ability to predict solar activity.
Capturing an image of the solar poles requires the spacecraft to move away from the zodiac plane, affecting nearly all objects in the solar system, which orbit within the sun’s flat disk. The Solar Orbiter, a collaborative effort between the European Space Agency and NASA, achieved this milestone. Launched in 2020, it gradually adjusted its trajectory to reach an angle steep enough to reveal the previously unseen polar areas of the Sun.
ESA unveiled the initial image of the Sun’s Antarctic region taken in March, with the spacecraft positioned at 15 degrees below the zodiac plane and currently at 17 degrees beneath it.
Seeing this image for the first time was truly remarkable. Lucy Green from University College London, which contributed to developing the Solar Orbiter, remarked, “We felt privileged as these previously concealed areas became accessible to us.”
The Antarctic of the Sun seen at various wavelengths
ESA & NASA/SOLAR ORBITER/PHI, EUI, SPICE teams
The Solar Orbiter has also been using measurements of magnetic fields and high-energy radiation emerging from the Sun’s Antarctic region, data that ESA has now shared. Understanding the magnetic fields in this area is crucial for our comprehension of the solar cycle, which shows intensive activity roughly every 11 years, states Green. “To fully grasp the Sun as a star, we need to analyze the magnetic fields surrounding it. The magnetic regions at the poles are integral to this understanding.”
“It might seem paradoxical, but one of the most critical areas on the Sun for forecasting space weather on Earth is not visually appealing when seen from Earth: the solar poles,” says Matthew Owens from the University of Reading, UK.
“These new images provide unprecedented insights into regions near Antarctica. As the Solar Orbiter mission progresses, it will ascend to higher latitudes and provide even clearer views of the pole,” he remarks. Space weather forecasts depend on knowing the magnetic structure at the poles, especially during the Sun’s least active phases over the next three to four years, says Owens.
The Solar Orbiter has also offered us a look into the Sun’s Arctic, but ESA is awaiting the data’s return to Earth. In the meantime, you can explore the Arctic through an approximation crafted by ESA in 2018 using clever imaging techniques.
The internet has faced a barrage of criticism, much of which stems from its own workings, yet it feels somewhat contradictory to voice such complaints. Detractors often lament a loss of innocence and freedom, harkening back to a time when the digital realm was not dominated by a select group of immensely powerful tech magnates.
I recall getting broadband for the first time in 2005. By the end of The Great Gatsby, I felt akin to one of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s Dutch sailors.
It’s disconcerting to ponder that this magnificent creation has been taken advantage of, utilized to harvest parts of our lives and sold for profit.
Some believe we need to unplug, retreat from everything, and stop entirely before we lose sight of truth or our identities. But is it really so wrong to linger a bit longer?
Here are the 10 most intriguing things I’ve encountered online.
This was the first stand-up special I ever watched. I’ve loved this segment about how hangovers intensify with age. Now that I’m in my 30s and have been sober for six years, I can argue with experience that it’s a different beast entirely. Still, I fondly appreciate that bit for the same reasons I did at 13.
In high school, I bonded with two siblings from my street. Their father was an illustrator who adored the Beatles, while their mother ventured into indie filmmaking. They introduced me to an array of offbeat films and art that felt a world away from the suburbs of Adelaide. Interestingly, Pilly Martin, one of the brothers, has made a name for himself as a filmmaker, releasing his first feature, “Psychosis,” in 2023.
3. The Beatles
Do you allow Instagram content?
This article includes content provided by Instagram. You may be using cookies or other technologies, thus you’re prompted for permission before content loads. To view this content, Click “Get permission and continue.”.
Speaking of the Beatles! James Donald Forbes McCann, one of Australia’s most accomplished comedians, often insists on this introduction; yet, his talent justifies every accolade. He transitioned to the US after opening for Shane Gillis and is now drawing crowds nationally. His performance “Deceive Me Once” is notable, but I couldn’t omit this profound piece regarding the Beatles.
4. Superfood by Andrew Portelli
Do you allow Instagram content?
This article features content provided by Instagram. You might be using cookies or other technologies, and thus you will be prompted for permission prior to reveal. To view this content, Click “Get permission and continue.”.
Andrew Portelli remains one of Australia’s finest comedians, even if it often goes unnoticed. Yet, there’s justice to be found throughout this long journey.
Lucy and I still frequently quote this video; it forms a foundation of our 15-year friendship, alongside “Get Your Shoes!” Furthermore, my friend Mebo produced a mixtape titled Midyear Mayhem in 2009, embodying the essence of MS Word-era gradients. It’s brilliant.
6. The Smallest Smile by Concetta and Luka
Do you allow Instagram content?
This article includes content provided by Instagram. You may be using cookies or other technologies, thus you’re prompted for permission before content loads. To view this content, Click “Get permission and continue.”.
This breakfast duo on Triple J, accompanied by comedian Alex Ward, shares sweet sentiments before responding as little as possible with smiles. You wouldn’t grasp the fun until you tried it yourself. Once the laughter fades, I appreciate the ironic twist of the radio team posting a purely visual joke on Instagram.
When I relocated to Melbourne in 2012, David Quirk was the first comic whose work I admired and shared a stage with. His set at the Festival Club was brilliant, and his unique style offers the perfect encapsulation of what he brings to comedy. Witnessing four audience members take the open mic stage at a Richmond monastic venue in 2012 was exhilarating, setting the stage for the next decade of my life.
8. Beam Me Up Softboi
Do you allow Instagram content?
This article includes content provided by Instagram. You may be using cookies or other technologies, thus you’re prompted for permission before content loads. To view this content, Click “Get permission and continue.”.
Although this Instagram account has remained relatively quiet in recent years, it was quite popular in the mid to late 20s. A Manchester-based account, it featured and shared ridiculous screenshots of the absurd things men say to women online. When it gained traction, I was beginning to acknowledge that the many failures of my own romantic pursuits might have been partly due to my choices (not sure?!). Reading these posts has always brought a chuckle, while being part of these discussions provided helpful context.
9. America Still Uses Fahrenheit
Do you allow Instagram content?
This article includes content provided by Instagram. You may be using cookies or other technologies, thus you’re prompted for permission before content loads. To view this content, Click “Get permission and continue.”.
I reject the notion that the internet is solely a negative force disrupting our lives. Like anything else, it has its flaws, but fundamentally, the internet reflects us. If we dislike what it reveals, the responsibility to change lies with us. We can adjust our algorithms to highlight the content we want to engage with, thus fostering the creation of what we desire. The journey begins with you. Here’s a lighthearted video of a man transforming into a cat.
Nestled in a quieter street of vibrant central London, the headquarters of a significant yet under-the-radar climate organization awaits your discovery.
The Quadrature Climate Foundation (QCF) annually allocates hundreds of millions of dollars to some of the most impactful campaign groups and scientific institutions, at the forefront of research and advocacy in green transitions. It funds initiatives such as anti-methane vaccines for livestock, sustainable aviation fuel, geothermal energy, and carbon capture technologies.
As research budgets tighten in universities and across the UK, organizations like QCF step in to facilitate the shift toward net-zero emissions.
Established in 2019 as a charitable arm of the Four Seasons hedge fund, the QCF empowers founders Greg Skinner and Sunil Setya to tackle climate challenges. Recently recognized in the Sunday Times Rich List for their philanthropic efforts, they contributed over $6.7 million to climate-related initiatives last week through the foundation. In total, QCF has dispersed over $1 billion to climate interventions, ranking it as one of the largest and most influential climate charities globally.
Who decides which research projects to back, what causes to prioritize, and the strategic direction to pursue? Greg de Temmerman, a former nuclear physicist and the QCF’s Chief Science Officer, is tasked with evaluating proposals to identify the most promising initiatives.
Madeleine Cuff: Could you explain your transition from a nuclear fusion focus to climate strategy?
Greg de Temmerman: I worked on the ITER project [an international fusion experiment based in France] for seven years, the largest scientific endeavor on Earth. Throughout this period, I engaged in outreach efforts to demystify fusion. Unfortunately, the project faced mounting delays.
I was frequently interacting with decision-makers, which illuminated the divide between scientific research and policy-making. Consequently, I chose to exit fusion in 2020 and co-founded a think tank with a Parisian entrepreneur, aiming to bridge the gap between policymakers and early-stage technology. In 2023, I joined the Quadrature Climate Foundation where I continue this mission, but now with greater resources to effect change.
Controversial geoengineering initiatives, like this insulation project in Switzerland, are under scrutiny
Fabrice Coffrini/AFP via Getty Images
Explain your current role at QCF.
QCF’s mission is to promote projects and partnerships that can drive global change. Our portfolio includes support for early-stage technologies, advocacy, campaigns, technical work, capacity building, and more. It’s crucial to identify the problem at hand.
For instance, one might say, “I want to boost renewable energy,” but what obstacles stand in the way? Is it financial resources? Infrastructure issues? I was brought on board to ask these critical questions and ensure we pursue the right solutions.
How does charitable funding differ from traditional investments and government support?
Charitable funding doesn’t seek financial returns, allowing for greater risk-taking than typical investments. Moreover, we can move more swiftly than government entities. Essentially, we both catalyze the net-zero movement and act as a catalyst for other funding sources.
With an impressive annual budget reaching around $325 million in 2025, do you face significant influences?
We are notable players in climate finance but still small in comparison to what’s needed for a successful climate transition. While it feels empowering to operate at this scale, our budget pales in comparison to the global demands of climate mitigation.
You support various initiatives, from studying climate change impacts to advocating for clean tech entrepreneurship. Can you share a particular success?
We were among the first substantial funders of permanent carbon removal techniques. Our initiatives aimed to develop a compliance market while emphasizing accountability measures. This became critical following discussions ignited by the last international climate change report, which highlighted the necessity for negative emissions, leading to serious dialogue on the subject.
Last year, you introduced a new strategy, shifting focus towards adaptation and resilience in climate change. What prompted this shift?
The climate crisis is accelerating, with more extreme weather events becoming a norm. Adaptation is essential to any decarbonization efforts. This new strategy seeks to unify our initiatives under a coherent vision, aligning with what our founders find most impactful.
As part of the new strategy, you’ll be supporting climate intervention research, particularly geoengineering, which can be contentious. What motivates this funding?
Indeed, these scientific endeavors should predominantly come from public funding, which has been lacking for various reasons. Thus, we decided to support this research to ensure that vital questions are being explored.
This sector raises major ethical concerns. How can you justify financial support for it?
I don’t have a definitive stance on the ethics of geoengineering. Currently, it’s a complex arena that necessitates rigorous understanding, and I don’t endorse any immediate applications of geoengineering techniques.
Our intent is to spark discussions about geoengineering, especially as new startups emerge in this field, despite existing research lagging behind.
Is your support strictly for foundational research, or do you engage with field trials as well?
Much of our backing centers around fundamental climate science. One pressing issue in geoengineering is understanding cloud formation, which parallels many critical challenges in climate science. We funded a minimal outdoor experiment in the U.S. that was suspended after a few weeks due to public backlash. We prefer to remain cautious and utilize robust climate models to predict the impacts of geoengineering. Comprehensive observational capabilities are essential for effective outdoor trials, and we believe there remains much work in foundational climate science.
In the current political climate, with leaders like former President Trump rolling back climate policies, how do you navigate these headwinds?
Transition involves disruption; established systems resist change while new ones emerge, and this tension can be challenging. It’s essential to foster understanding of this dynamic and communicate the complexities inherent to the transition process.
The upcoming years may be tough. Addressing climate issues has become increasingly challenging. In the UK, rising electricity costs compound the disconnect between the public’s perception of renewable energy benefits and their current bills, which can lead to skepticism.
However, there’s compelling motivation to move away from fossil fuels, independent of climate beliefs. Oil and gas markets are notoriously unstable, making diversification essential for resilience. The key is to demonstrate that energy transitions benefit everyone, regardless of their views on climate action.
Oil refinery at sunset in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
Panoramic Images/Alamy
Climate disinformation and malign players pose challenges. What can be done to combat this?
Attacks on climate science persist, but the overwhelming evidence supports the scientific consensus. While some may cling to flat Earth beliefs, the facts remain clear. Increasingly, the discourse pivots to contesting solutions rather than the scientific basis itself. For instance, searching “Electric Car” on YouTube reveals numerous videos disputing their efficacy. These discussions, while interesting, rely heavily on data and understanding.
What exciting prospects lie ahead for QCF in the coming year?
To transform industries, we must bring down energy costs, and there are opportunities to achieve that. Furthermore, tackling industrial emissions—once deemed difficult—is now achievable with ready solutions. It’s an exhilarating time as skeptics claimed decarbonizing sectors like steel was impossible. But now, we know we can do it.
As you’ve identified as a major player, how do you cope with the responsibility of influencing climate transition?
It’s about recognizing our role within the broader system and acknowledging our limitations. It’s vital to approach initiatives with the belief that we can unlock new possibilities, while remaining open to the reality that we may not always be correct.
How do you maintain optimism in a time where climate progress appears stagnant?
I often say my optimism shines on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays; I’m more pessimistic on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, with Sundays reserved for reflection.
A man with paralysis is connected to a brain-computer interface system
Lisa E. Howard/Mitely Wairagkar et al. 2025
Men who have lost their ability to speak can engage in real-time conversations and even sing using brain-controlled synthetic voices.
The brain-computer interface captures neural activity through electrodes implanted in the brain, instantly creating audio sounds that match intended pitch, intonation, and emphasis.
“This represents a breakthrough in instantaneous speech synthesis, achieving this within 25 ms,” says Sergei Stavisky from the University of California, Davis.
While advancements are needed to improve speech clarity, Maitreyee Wairagkar, also at UC Davis, notes that the individual who lost his speech due to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis expresses happiness and feels that he has found his true voice.
Existing speech neurospheres that utilize brain-computer interfaces typically require a few seconds to convert brain activity into sound. Stavisky mentions that this delays natural conversation and if the connection falters, it can feel like speaking on a poor-quality phone call.
To create a more seamless speech experience, Wairagkar, Stavisky, and their team implanted 256 electrodes in the areas of the male brain responsible for facial muscle control necessary for speech. In subsequent sessions, they introduced thousands of sentences on a screen, recorded brain activity, and prompted the subject to vocalize with specific intonations.
“For instance, phrases like ‘How are you today?’ or variations such as ‘How are you? today?’ can significantly alter the meaning of sentences,” explains Stavisky. “This approach allows for a richer, more natural dialog, marking a significant advancement over previous technologies.”
The researchers utilized an AI model trained to link particular patterns of neural activity with corresponding words and tonal variations, resulting in synthetic speech that mirrors both the content and emotional delivery intended by the user.
The AI was trained with audio recordings from before the male’s condition deteriorated, employing voice-cloning technology to ensure the synthetic speech bore a resemblance to his original voice.
In another phase of the study, researchers attempted to teach him to sing a simple melody with varying pitches, with their models accurately interpreting the intended pitch in real time and adjusting the produced singing voice accordingly.
He also utilizes the system to communicate spontaneously, making sounds such as “hmmm,” “eww,” and forming words, as noted by Wairagkar.
“He’s a remarkably articulate and intelligent individual,” says David Brandman from UC Davis. “Despite his paralysis, he has continued to participate actively in work and engage in meaningful conversations.”
Do our brains really develop from practically anything, allowing us to generate complex thoughts, actions, and even reflections on ourselves? Recent experiments with tadpoles have integrated electron implants into brain precursors during early embryonic stages, potentially bringing us closer to answering this question.
Earlier efforts to investigate neurodevelopment relied on tools like functional magnetic resonance imaging and rigid electrode wires. Unfortunately, the imaging resolution was often too low to be effective, while the rigid wires caused significant damage to the brain, yielding little more than a snapshot of specific developmental moments.
Researchers, including Jia Liu from Harvard University, discovered a material (a type of perfluropolymer) closely resembling brain tissue. They employed this to create a flexible, elastic mesh encasing an ultra-thin conductor, which was placed onto the neural plate—a flat structure that serves as the precursor to the brain—in the embryos of the African clawed frog (Axenopath Ravis).
As the neural plates folded and expanded, these ribbon-like meshes were enveloped by the developing brain, maintaining functionality amidst stretching and bending in the tissue. When the researchers sought to measure signals from the brain, they connected the meshes to computers to visualize neural activity.
The implants did not harm the brain nor provoke an immune reaction, and the tadpole embryos developed as anticipated. In fact, at least one grew into a normal frog, according to Liu.
“It’s incredible to integrate all these materials and ensure everything operates seamlessly,” said Christopher Bettinger from Carnegie Mellon University, Pennsylvania. “This tool has the potential to significantly advance basic neuroscience by enabling biologists to observe neural activity throughout development.”
The team derived two key insights from their experiments. First, the patterns of neural activity shifted as tissue differentiated into specialized structures, resulting in distinct functions. Liu noted that tracking an organism’s self-organization to a computer was previously deemed impossible.
The second area of focus was how brain activity in animals changes following amputation. Traditionally, it was believed that electrical activity would revert to its original developmental state. The research team confirmed this by utilizing implants in experiments with Axolotls.
Liu’s team is now broadening their research to include rodents. Unlike amphibians, rodent development occurs within the uterus, making the implantation of meshes more challenging. It requires in vitro fertilization and more intricate signaling measurement techniques compared to simply wiring the mesh to computers. Nonetheless, Liu is optimistic that the insights gained from observing early stages of conditions like autism and schizophrenia will justify the complexities involved.
Bettinger mentioned that similar devices could also be applied to monitor neuromuscular regeneration following injuries and during rehabilitation. “Overall, this highlights the remarkable potential of highly compliant electronic applications,” he stated.
A surprising announcement at the end of the summer Gamefest presentation on June 6th unveiled the ninth installment in the legendary Capcom Survival Horror Series: Resident Evil Requiem, slated for release early next year.
Devoted fans of the franchise, which has inspired films, TV shows, and more, quickly began analyzing the trailers. These trailers spotlight the protagonist, Grace Ashcroft, daughter of Alyssa Ashcroft from the 2003 title Resident Evil Outbreak. Requiem is set to take place in Raccoon City, the fictional hub infamous for battling the spread of zombified T-viruses.
At a demo in LA last week, the game director introduced Requiem, emphasizing its core theme of “addictive horror,” noting that Grace Ashcroft presents a far more vulnerable and frightening character compared to the military-trained protagonists of earlier entries.
Tops Curler…Resident Evil Requiem. Photo: Capcom
I heard the audience’s reaction to the demo before experiencing it myself—screams and gasps filled the air. As I stepped into a dim room alongside dozens of others, I was met with a shocking scene. Everyone would likely scream if they found themselves waking upside down on a gurney. This snippet of Resident Evil Requiem made it hard not to cringe in shared distress as the gameplay unfolded, with Grace attempting to escape her bindings. Ultimately, she breaks free, transitioning from cutscenes to first-person gameplay, providing various options to search for items in settings that resemble deserted hotels and hospitals.
As you can expect, some rooms still possess working electricity, but Grace predominantly navigates through eerily lit environments, shrouded in an unsettling crimson emergency glow. While searching for a locked door and the key to the fuse box, she faces something lurking in the shadows. Just as she discovers tools necessary for escape, she stumbles over a body. Before she can grasp who it is, a grotesque, massive creature resembling a wild beast appears, characterized by enormous black eyes, large ears, menacing teeth, and oversized hands.
The creature seizes the body and starts to bite into it, evoking a striking resemblance to Goya’s depiction of Saturn consuming his son. I felt goosebumps tingling on my arms as the creature reappeared during the gameplay preview, punctuated by the terrified screams of the player. Eventually, the demo offers a moment to regroup, displaying a pause menu that allows switching between first and third-person perspectives. Gasps and murmurs fill the crowd, noting that this is the first Resident Evil game allowing viewpoint changes (except for the previous title, where this feature was introduced as a paid update in 2021).
The closing line, “This is an overture to our darkest symphony,” flashed on the screen before the demo wrapped up, leading us into a shadowy corridor towards the exit. “What was that?” someone muttered behind me. While not every Resident Evil installment has challenged the boundaries of video game horror, this particular presentation made a strikingly unsettling debut.
Autonomous AI agents may soon communicate across the Internet
Outflow Designs/Istockphoto/Getty Images
What does the future of the internet hold? As AI companies evolve, previously open web spaces are being overtaken by digital silos controlled by commercial AI models, sidelining enthusiasts and small businesses. In response, a coalition of grassroots researchers is determined to champion an open approach to AI.
Central to this effort is the notion of AI “agents.” These are software programs that navigate the web and interact with online platforms based on human directions, such as planning holidays and making bookings. Many perceive these agents as the next stage of evolution following services like ChatGPT, yet they face significant challenges in functionality. This is largely due to the web’s design, which favors human interaction; thus, developers are recognizing that AI agents require specialized protocols to effectively engage with online content, services, and each other.
“The objective is to establish infrastructure that facilitates communication among bots, much like software does,” explains Catherine Frick from Staffordshire University, UK.
Several competing solutions to this challenge have emerged. For instance, Anthropic, the creators of the Claude chatbot, have introduced the Model Context Protocol (MCP), which standardizes the way AI models connect to various data sources and tools. In April, Google announced its own take with the Agent2Agent (A2A) protocol, offering a distinct approach to this concept.
While these methods share similarities, they have important differences. MCP focuses on standardizing AI models’ connections to external data repositories and tools, creating a secure universal channel for two-way communication—akin to having a phone number or email for messaging. In contrast, A2A expands on this by enabling autonomous agents to discover one another, exchange information, and collaborate on tasks.
For instance, you can link your AI chatbot to the code-sharing platform GitHub via MCP, yet Google asserts that A2A could enable agents to manage job interviews, conduct calls, perform background checks—all in one streamlined process, with the agent team operating simultaneously.
However, as these protocols originate from major tech companies, concerns arise that the creators of the most successful protocol might leverage it for their own commercial gain. The MCP model necessitates oversight from a central server for connections, whereas A2A comes with its own costs, assuming that authorized agents will cooperate.
“We want to prevent an ‘Agent Internet’ from evolving into yet another ‘silo alliance,'” warns Gawee Chan, who serves as chairman of the AI Agent Protocol Group. Founded in May as part of the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) Standards Organization, Chan emphasizes the importance of inclusivity in developing this new layer of the Internet. “If we genuinely believe that AI is a transformative technology for human society, we need an open, neutral community to guide protocol development, ensuring that its future is shared by all companies, not just a select few,” he states.
In pursuit of this goal, Chang has initiated an open-source alternative to the Big Tech Agent Protocol with the Agent Network Protocol (ANP), which predates both MCP and A2A. ANP facilitates AI agents in discovering each other and establishing identities across the web, reminiscent of the early days of the internet, when individuals created personal websites and email accounts independent of large tech intermediaries. This autonomy allows ANP-driven models to function without a central authority, enabling direct communication between distinct AI models on the same device without needing internet verification.
Flick supports the emergence of open-source, non-commercial alternatives for Agent AI. “Essentially, our aim is to restore the fundamental principle of democratization to the Internet, which is how it all began,” she remarks. Without such alternatives, she warns that tech giants could create “walled gardens” reminiscent of the challenges seen in app stores and social media platforms. “If we rely on major corporations for this, they will execute it primarily to maximize profits,” she cautions.
Google claims that its protocols are designed for universal benefit. “We will continue to enhance [A2A] to tackle real-world challenges businesses face in deploying agent frameworks. At its core, it’s structured for the future’s demands,” says Rao Sarapaneni from Google Cloud.
“We have always believed in ensuring that advancements in AI serve everyone,” adds Theo Chu, an anthropologist. “When I developed MCP, I recognized that one key strategy to avoid fragmentation and vendor lock-in—which hampers the advancement of other technologies—was to make it open-source.”
Chu asserts that MCP is integrated across major platforms, including Microsoft, OpenAI, and Google. “The success of MCP will stem from its ability to expand choices rather than restrict them,” she notes. “The collective value of the ecosystem is increased for everyone.”
The W3C Group is eager to collaborate with all stakeholders to establish technical standards industry-wide, but no specific timeline has been set. “Ultimately, our focus isn’t on the triumph or failure of any one protocol but rather on the holistic growth of the agent ecosystem.”
This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.
Strictly Necessary Cookies
Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.
