First signs of Planet Nine may have been finally detected

Taiwanese scientists detected signs of Planet Nine by comparing infrared surveys from 1983 and 2006-2007. Researchers from National Tsing Hua University found a faint object that shifted position over 23 years. While not confirmed, the team said, "this is not confirmation of a ninth planet," but a new target for study.

Chemistry Nobel 2026 awarded to Henri B. Kagan and Kenso Soai

The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences awarded the 2026 Nobel Prize in Chemistry to Henri B. Kagan and Kenso Soai on Wednesday, October 7, 2026. They got the honour for discovering non-linear effects and autocatalysis in asymmetric organic synthesis. This prestigious prize includes a gold medal and 12-million-kronor cash award.

How new technology helps catch art criminals

New technology is helping experts catch art criminals and spot fake works. Researchers at the University of Bradford used facial recognition to show a famous sketch was not Anne Boleyn. Dr Anna Tunmers said, "Art experts are like detectives. We combine different types of evidence including condition of the artwork."

128,000-year-old glacial ice from the last ice age discovered in Tibet

Scientists discovered 128,000-year-old glacial ice on Tibet’s Guliya Plateau, dating back to the last ice age. This rare find helps experts understand past climate changes. Lead author Lonnie Thompson said, "If you get an identical record a quarter of a century later, it can tell you a lot about the behaviour."

Physicists just found the ‘ghost’ of superconductivity

Physicists found the ghost of superconductivity in uranium ditelluride, as published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. Researchers observed pair density waves that remain after superconductivity disappears. "Pair density waves are the Cheshire Cat's grin of superconductivity," said Eduardo Fradkin, explaining this vestige of the material's state.

Penguin poop is melting Antarctic snow by keeping algae green

Penguin poop is melting Antarctic snow by keeping algae green, a new study shows. These nutrient-rich droppings help algae grow, darkening the surface and absorbing more sunlight. Alia Khan said, "Without accounting for these biological darkening effects, we are likely underestimating how rapidly coastal snowpacks are melting across Antarctica."

NASA’s Webb finds signs of Mars-sized worlds smashing together

NASA’s James Webb Space Telescope found signs of Mars-sized worlds smashing together in young star systems. Published Oct 1, the study examined 21 extreme debris disks. Lead author Kate Su said, "This is the first time we have gathered enough systems to truly understand this subclass that we call extreme."

James Webb Space Telescope spots a 'cauldron of cosmic creation' photo of the day for Oct. 7, 2026

The James Webb Space Telescope captured a new photo of the Flower Bud Nebula on October 7, 2026. This region, 3,300 light-years away, acts as a "cauldron of cosmic creation" where over 100 young stars form. Using infrared cameras, the telescope peered through thick dust to show these stars in detail.

How an Indian professor's research helped pave way for the Nobel-winning discovery

Prof Kateriya helped pave the way for the Nobel-winning discovery of optogenetics. His research identified key DNA sequences in alga during 2002 and 2003. He said, “We were basically the first people to show that certain proteins can bring so much bioelectrical activity.” This work helped scientists control brain cells.

Jal Jeevan Mission to integrate water data, create digital twin of water supply infrastructure

The Jal Jeevan Mission is using integrated water data and digital twins to enable village-level water budgeting. Secretary Ashok K. Meena said, “Water budgeting will become a norm for local governance.” This new platform maps rainfall and aquifers to help local authorities manage water supply and infrastructure more effectively today.

Can we protect historic sites on the moon from the coming lunar rush?

The International Scientific Committee on Aerospace Heritage met in Italy to discuss protecting historic lunar sites from crashing spacecraft. Experts worry that rising lunar traffic and rocket impacts threaten sites like the Apollo 11 landing module. Alice Gorman said, "We've reached an inflection point where spacecraft craters are an environmental hazard."

Plants, people and progress for native prairie seeds

Researchers from South Dakota State University are studying native prairie seed networks in the Northern Great Plains. Jennifer Zavaleta Cheek said, "Native seed systems often have ecological, production or technological challenges." The team interviewed 60 people and found that distinct commercial and tribal systems operate together to support restoration efforts.