This superconductivity dies then comes back to life
A strange new kind of superconductivity has been uncovered in uranium ditelluride (UTe2), where electricity flows with zero resistance—but only under extremely strong magnetic fields that should normally destroy it. Even more surprising, the superconductivity disappears at first and then dramatically reappears at even higher fields, earning it the nickname the “Lazarus phase.”
Read MoreGravitational waves may be hidden in the light atoms emit
Scientists have proposed a surprising new way to detect gravitational waves—by observing how they change the light emitted by atoms. These waves can subtly shift photon frequencies in different directions, leaving behind a detectable signature. The effect doesn’t change how much light atoms emit, which is why it’s gone unnoticed until now. If confirmed, this…
Read MoreA common nutrient could supercharge cancer treatment
A common eye-health nutrient, zeaxanthin, may also help the body fight cancer more effectively. Scientists discovered it strengthens T cells and enhances the impact of immunotherapy treatments. Found in everyday vegetables and supplements, it’s safe, accessible, and shows strong potential as a cancer therapy booster. Human trials are the next step.
Read MoreGoodbye colonoscopy? New stool test detects 90% of colorectal cancers
A breakthrough in microbiome research could change how colorectal cancer is detected—no colonoscopy required. Scientists used AI to map gut bacteria at an unprecedented level of detail, revealing subtle microbial patterns linked to cancer. By analyzing simple stool samples, their method identified 90% of cases, rivaling one of medicine’s most trusted diagnostic tools.
Read MoreThese cheap solar cells work better because they’re flawed
Perovskite solar cells shouldn’t work as well as they do—but they do. Scientists have now discovered that defects inside the material actually help, creating networks that separate and guide electric charges efficiently. Using a novel imaging method, they revealed hidden structures acting like charge “highways.” This insight could unlock even more powerful, low-cost solar cells.
Read MoreScientists think dark matter might come in two forms
A mysterious glow of gamma rays at the center of the Milky Way has long hinted at dark matter, but the lack of similar signals in smaller dwarf galaxies has cast doubt on that idea. Now, researchers propose a bold twist: dark matter might not be a single particle at all, but a mix of…
Read MoreRipples in spacetime may have revealed 1st evidence of tiny black holes born in the Big Bang
Gravitational waves may have provided the first tantalizing evidence of tiny primordial black holes born during the Big Bang, which could account for dark matter.
Read MoreCrossword: Traveling Light
Solve the crossword from our May 2026 issue, in which we expand the way we see the universe.
Read MoreNo One Knows Where US Vaccine Policy Goes Next
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s sweeping changes to federal vaccine guidance are paused for now. But even if they’re reversed, lasting damage has already been done.
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