Top Science News Stories of 2016: Breakthroughs and Discoveries
2016 was a remarkable year in the field of science, with numerous significant discoveries and breakthroughs across various disciplines. This article highlights some of the most notable stories from 2016, including findings from prestigious science magazines and publications such as Science Magazine and the New York Times.
Science Magazine's Top 10 Science News Stories of 2016
Science Magazine emphasized stories that were captivating and engaging rather than focusing solely on cutting-edge research. Here, we present the top 10 stories from their list:
10. Undead Genes Reveal Cellular Lifespan
Could genes reveal the secrets of cellular aging? A recent study explored the role of genes that ‘come alive’ days after cells die. These genes could provide valuable insights into cellular longevity.
9. Fairy Tales May Be 6000 Years Old
Unexpected archaeological discoveries suggested some fairy tales may be older than previously thought, with some tales potentially dating back to 6000 years ago, intertwining with early human history.
8. Greenland Shark Sets Longevity Record
A study revealed that the Greenland shark holds the record for longevity among vertebrates, possibly living up to 400 years. This phenomenal finding challenges our understanding of cellular aging and survivability.
7. Plants Can Gamble to Survive
Recent research delved into the survival strategies of plants, showing that they can engage in risk assessment similar to humans. This study emphasizes how plants adapt and survive in changing environments.
6. Alien Life Could Be Feeding on Cosmic Rays
A groundbreaking theory suggests that alien life on planets could sustain themselves by feeding on cosmic rays, pushing the boundaries of our current understanding of extraterrestrial life.
5. Humans Are Still Evolving
Scientists observed instances of human evolution in real-time, marking the first time this has been witnessed directly. This discovery highlights the dynamic nature of human biology and the ongoing impact of evolution.
4. Could You Have Outrun a T-Rex?
A study revealed that modern humans could have outrun the gigantic T. rex, providing a new perspective on the relationship between ancient predators and prey.
3. Humpback Whale Saves a Seal’s Life
A heartwarming story of interspecies interaction where a humpback whale intervened to protect a seal from a storm. This event not only highlighted the intelligence of these magnificent creatures but also underscored the interconnectedness of ecosystems.
2. Cold War Military Base Unearthed by Climate Change
Climate change not only causes sea levels to rise but also exposes hidden historical sites, such as the mysterious ice-buried Cold War military base in the Arctic. This story delved into the unexpected consequences of rising temperatures.
1. Origin of Cells’ Power Plants
Why do cells have their own DNA? A pivotal discovery revealed the origin of mitochondria, the power plants of cells, shedding light on the evolutionary history of our cells.
A Year in Review from Other Publications
Other reputable sources also highlighted significant developments in the scientific community during 2016:
New York Times: Archeology and Space
Archeology: The discovery of 40 shipwrecks from the 9th to 19th centuries offered a glimpse into maritime history. Additionally, a tunnel of escapees from Nazi concentration camps served as a powerful reminder of World War II’s dark history.
Space: The completion of the Rosetta mission, the end of Scott Kelly’s mission on the International Space Station, and the beginning of the European-Russian ExoMars mission marked significant milestones in space exploration. NASA’s spacecraft successfully reached Jupiter while launching the Orion spacecraft, pushing the boundaries of the solar system.
Gravitational Waves and Other Discoveries
Science Magazine: A groundbreaking discovery in 2016 was the observation of gravitational waves, which provided a new cosmic view of the universe. Other major stories included the devastation caused by the Zika virus in Brazil, the discovery of a nearby habitable planet, and the 'three-parent baby' technique, which raised hope and concern about genetic manipulation.
Conclusion
2016 was a year of remarkable achievements in the field of science. These stories not only expanded our understanding of the natural world but also pushed the boundaries of human knowledge and capabilities. As we move forward, these breakthroughs lay the foundation for future discoveries and advancements.