The Science Behind Why Soccer Players at the 2026 World Cup Are Cutting Their Socks
Holes in socks have become a curious sight at this year’s World Cup. The reasons why are a weird mix of biomechanics, perception, and player habits.
Good News! Turns Out the Earth Will Never Be Swallowed by the Sun
A new study suggests that when our star becomes unstable in 5 billion years or so, Earth may avoid being engulfed by its fiery demise.
What if the Universe Isn’t as Uniform as Scientists Think?
A study based on 47 million galaxies found that the cosmic web retains patterns on enormous scales, which could force a reevaluation of a pillar of cosmology.
Prediction Markets Let You Bet on Whether a Wildfire Will Burn Down Your Town
Wildfire survivors call fire-prediction markets “morally reprehensible” and worry they could increase the risk of arson.
What Are Fish Oil Supplements Good For? Here’s Your Crash Course
A large-scale clinical trial has shown that even long-term consumption of DHA—an omega-3 fatty acid found in abundance in oily fish—may not lead to improvements in cognitive function.
There’s a Global Network of Fungi Under Your Feet. This Is the First Complete Map
A new study has succeeded in mapping, on a global scale, the fungal network that supports plant life and helps regulate our planet’s climate.
Food Preservatives May Increase the Risk of High Blood Pressure and Cardiovascular Disease
Aa large-scale study demonstrates that preservatives widely used in everyday processed foods may exacerbate common health risks.
Scientists Have Identified a New Fossil Species of Axolotl in Mexico
Ambystoma quetzalcoatli is the first fossil salamander to be formally identified in Mexico, revealing that axolotls have inhabited the country for millions of years.
3 Nuclear Startups Hit a Big Milestone. Why It Matters—and Why It Doesn’t
The companies’ Fourth of July plans include celebrating new reactor designs coming online. But there’s still a long way to go before they deliver energy at a meaningful scale.
The FDA Ruled That ZYN Pouches Are Safer Than Cigarettes. That Doesn’t Mean They’re Safe
ZYN nicotine pouches, the FDA found, can be advertised as a less-harmful option for adult smokers. But quitting all tobacco and nicotine products remains the best idea.