Briefings
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Solstices
As 21 June approaches, people around the world are getting ready to mark the longest – or shortest – days of the year. But why do the days change in length? And who is most affected?
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Auroras
The burst of colourful light visible in the night sky is one of the most spectacular displays in nature. Now, research has revealed more about how these mysterious auroras are formed.
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Dark matter
Scientists have released the most precise map of dark matter ever made. But it only highlights how much we do not know about the universe. What is dark matter, and why is it such a mystery?
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Vaccination
The biggest vaccination campaign in history is underway, with nearly 30 million doses administered every day. How exactly do these vaccines fight Covid-19 – and how large is their impact?
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Extinction
A new project has turned a traditional trophy hunter’s hit list into a conservation tool. Its organisers hope it will raise global awareness about the hundreds of species facing extinction.
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iOS 14.5
Apple says its new software update released this week is necessary to protect your privacy. Facebook furiously disagrees. Why has iOS 14.5 sparked a war between the two tech giants?
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Ingenuity
The Ingenuity helicopter has taken off and landed on the surface of Mars. It has been described as a “Wright brothers moment”. But what does it mean for the future of space exploration?
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Exoskeletons
From Iron Man to Avatar, they have lived a life of their own in pop culture and science fiction. But mechanical exoskeletons are real – and they have the power to revolutionise our lives.
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Microplastics
The world is filled with billions of particles of plastic. As small as dust, they are almost invisible – but they cause huge problems. What are microplastics, and where do they come from?
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Music
Music is universal throughout humanity. Experienced and enjoyed across cultures and continents, it has played a vital role in the history of human society – and possibly evolution itself.
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Seaweed
Just 2% of the world’s fertile ocean is used to grow seaweed. But environmental benefits and scientific innovation mean this overlooked industry could be about to experience a boom.
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Swallows
Millions of swallows have begun the dangerous journey thousands of miles north for the European summer. These birds have fascinated humans for centuries. What can their epic flight teach us?
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Bitcoin
After just over 10 years of existence, the first centralised cryptocurrency continues to soar in value. What is it about Bitcoin that makes it so irresistible? And will its success last?
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Icebergs
Beautiful and dangerous, icebergs wander the ocean’s surface until they melt. These powerful mountains of ice have the ability to capsize huge vessels – and support entire ecosystems.
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Smartphones
Built into every smartphone on Earth is a stunning collection of around 70 precious and rare metals. How did these valuable elements get into our devices – and can we reclaim them?