This year has brought us a variety of reasons to celebrate, from new vaccine developments to climate tipping points.

But let’s not forget about the stories that fascinated, shocked, and puzzled us. Here are some of our favorite moments from the past year:

1. Hippos can fly

It turns out hippos can spend up to 15 percent of their stride cycle in the air due to their fast running speed.

2. Poop frequency is an important health indicator

Researchers have found that having one or two bowel movements a day can have long-term health benefits.

3. A strange UFO is hurtling through space

Scientists are still trying to figure out the mysterious object hurtling through space at incredible speeds.

4. Pompeii’s victims were not who we thought they were.

New DNA evidence has provided insights into the victims of Mount Vesuvius’ eruption in 79 AD.

5. Robot skin

Scientists have developed robot skin made from human cells, a step towards creating more durable robots.

6. Killer Whale vs. Great White Shark

Scientists observed an orca attacking and killing a great white shark, showcasing a rare predator-prey interaction.

7. ‘Zombie’ cannibal star discovered

A white dwarf star was discovered with scars indicating it cannibalized other celestial bodies.

8. New Loki Dinosaur

A newly discovered horned dinosaur was named after the Norse god Loki for its distinctive features.

9. New cat color

A unique cat fur color known as “Salted Licorice” was identified this year.

10. Megalodon research community during the war

New research about the prehistoric shark Megalodon and its size and shape has sparked debates in the paleontology community.

read more: