Alpha, beta, theta: what are brain states and brain waves? And can we control them?

Dec 26, 2023 23:15 pm UTC| Science

Theres no shortage of apps and technology that claim to shift the brain into a theta state said to help with relaxation, inward focus and sleep. But what exactly does it mean to change ones mental state? And is that...

Space Science Series

Tatahouine: 'Star Wars meteorite' sheds light on the early Solar System

Dec 26, 2023 23:15 pm UTC| Science

Locals watched in awe as a fireball exploded and hundreds of meteorite fragments rained down on the city of Tatahouine, Tunisia, on June 27, 1931. Fittingly, the city later became a major filming location of the Star Wars...

Eggs from men, sperm from women: how stem cell science may change how we reproduce

Dec 18, 2023 02:21 am UTC| Science

It may soon be possible to coax human skin cells into becoming functional eggs and sperm using a technique known as in vitro gametogenesis. This involves the creation (genesis) of eggs and sperm (gametes) outside the human...

Customizing mRNA is easy, and that's what makes it the next frontier for personalized medicine − a molecular biologist explains

Dec 13, 2023 13:47 pm UTC| Science

While using mRNA as medicine is new, mRNA has been inside you for your entire life. The cells in your body create mRNAs that serve as instructions to make specific proteins you need to function. Researchers can create new...

Scientists and space agencies are shooting for the Moon

Dec 13, 2023 13:46 pm UTC| Science

The year 2023 proved a big one for lunar science. Indias Chandrayaan-3 spacecraft landed near the south pole of the Moon, a huge accomplishment for a country relatively new to the space scene, especially after its...

Doing science in Antarctica has harmed an environment under great pressure. Here's how we can do better

Dec 12, 2023 16:02 pm UTC| Science

Scientific research in Antarctica has played a key role in many important discoveries of the past century. But it has also come at a considerable cost to the environment. Science in Antarctica is typically based at one...

Space Science Series

The Geminids: the year's best meteor shower is upon us. And this one will be a true spectacle

Dec 11, 2023 06:52 am UTC| Science

As an astronomer and meteor enthusiast, Id say its the most wonderful time of the year. Each December sees the return of the Geminid meteor shower the best natural fireworks display of the year - and people the world...