
Science news this week: Possible signs of life on another planet and a 'useless' female organ
April 19, 2025: Our weekly roundup of the latest science in the news, as well as a few fascinating articles to keep you entertained over the weekend.
By Nola Taylor Redd last updated
Antarctica is the coldest, windiest, and driest continent. Because so little moisture falls as rain or snow, Antarctica is classified as a desert.
By Sascha Pare published
The land beneath the former Aral Sea in Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan is rising and will continue to do so for many decades. Now, scientists have an explanation that involves the sea drying up.
By Shreejaya Karantha published
Researchers conducted the first-ever near-infrared analysis of an extragalactic recurrent nova and found it is one of the hottest nova explosions ever discovered.
By Harry Baker published
New research suggests that the unexpected intensity of the ongoing solar maximum may be partly tied to a lesser-known, 100-year solar cycle. If true, solar activity could spike further in the coming decades. But some experts are skeptical.
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Our roundup the biggest discoveries and top science in the news each week
By Marilyn Perkins published
People experience different amounts of pain during IUD insertion, but there are a number of pain-relief options available to patients getting the contraceptive.
By Patrick Pester published
Yellowstone's Junction Butte wolf pack failed in a recent attempt to kill a bison, but the pack appears to be thriving again after the death of its former alpha female, Wolf 907F.
By Kim Snaith last updated
From sets celebrating architecture and famous art to clever designs, these are the best Lego sets for adults.
By Ben Turner published
Physicists have set a new upper limit on the mass of neutrinos. And the finding could poke a big hole in the Standard Model of particle physics.
By Ben Turner published
Scientists developed a new method for breaking down one of the most common plastics to a byproduct that can be upcycled into more valuable materials.
By Alan Bradley published
The exotic quantum phase, predicted over half a century ago, could lead to advances in quantum computing, sensors and communication technology.
By Sharmila Kuthunur published
SpaceX's Starlink internet satellite constellation has become a prime target for Russia and China, according to a new report assessing the counterspace capabilities of a dozen countries over the past year.