Discoveries in astronomy, biology, neuroscience and materials, explained clearly.
Long-term memories last because the brain strengthens connections between neurons, then reorganises and reinforces them over days to years, much of it during sleep. Recent mouse studies have identified molecules and gene programmes that keep memories stable.
Lithium-ion batteries can be recycled by smelting, chemical leaching or newer direct methods, recovering metals such as lithium, cobalt and nickel. About a fifth of battery lithium is now recycled, and the EU requires 50% recovery by the end of 2027.
The Vera C. Rubin Observatory in Chile began its 10-year Legacy Survey of Space and Time on 30 June 2026. It photographs the whole southern sky every few nights, sending millions of public alerts about changes each night.
