Space Science Series

Asteroids in the solar system could contain undiscovered, superheavy elements

Oct 30, 2023 10:54 am UTC| Science

For centuries, the quest for new elements was a driving force in many scientific disciplines. Understanding an atoms structure and the development of nuclear science allowed scientists to accomplish the old goal of...

Space Science Series

The Sun's activity cycle is reaching its peak early: knowing why could help us unlock the secrets of our star

Oct 27, 2023 15:04 pm UTC| Science

Our Sun is a steady and everlasting companion. Reliable like a clock, its apparent passage across the sky allows us to measure time. The Sun and its path is also the source of Earths seasons. But in many respects, our Sun...

Physics has long failed to explain life – but we're testing a groundbreaking new theory in the lab

Oct 25, 2023 05:34 am UTC| Science

Modern physics can explain everything from the spin of the tiniest particle to the behaviour of entire galaxy clusters. But it cant explain life. Theres simply no formula to explain the difference between a living lump of...

Breakthroughs in medicine: top virologist on the two most important developments for Africa

Oct 24, 2023 09:30 am UTC| Science

There have been several important breakthroughs in medical science recently. Crispr, mRNA, next-generation cancer treatments and game-changing vaccines are some of them. Oyewale Tomori, a virologist with decades-long...

Quantum dots − a new Nobel laureate describes the development of these nanoparticles from basic research to industry application

Oct 20, 2023 13:12 pm UTC| Science

The Nobel Prize in chemistry for 2023 goes to three scientists for the discovery and synthesis of quantum dots. The Conversation Weekly podcast caught up with one of this trio, physical chemist Louis Brus, who did...

Evolution revolution: how a Cape Town museum exhibit is rewriting the story of humankind

Oct 19, 2023 04:47 am UTC| Science

Picture your typical human evolution museum display. You walk into a dimly lit space with glass boxes on white plinths or roped off areas. There are lots and lots of bones. Maybe a bit of history on how those bones were...

Space Science Series

New technique uses near-miss particle physics to peer into quantum world − two physicists explain how they are measuring wobbling tau particles

Oct 18, 2023 11:32 am UTC| Science

One way physicists seek clues to unravel the mysteries of the universe is by smashing matter together and inspecting the debris. But these types of destructive experiments, while incredibly informative, have limits. We...