Indian-origin sixth-grader trains machine-learning model to spot lithium deposits with 89% accuracy

Ishaan Dokania, a sixth-grader from Oregon, is exploring lithium resource identification using satellite imagery and machine learning. His project reached 89% accuracy in predicting potential lithium deposits after addressing data noise and testing various algorithms. Ishaan's innovative approach combines geology and remote sensing to streamline mineral exploration. He is competing as a finalist in the 2026 Thermo Fisher Scientific Junior Innovators Challenge.

African elephants can distinguish food availability visually when they are within 5 metres of potential food sources. Researchers tested elephants using canvases depicting different tree sizes and leaf densities to assess their choices. Findings suggest that these animals rely primarily on olfactory cues for food decisions beyond 5 metres. The study highlights the significance of both visual and olfactory information during foraging.

In a remarkable advancement, Stanford researchers have unveiled Orca-T therapy, which has recently received FDA approval. After two decades of rigorous development, this innovative treatment was administered to its inaugural commercial patient, a high-risk leukemia sufferer. Notably, Orca-T significantly minimizes the chances of graft-versus-host disease post-stem cell transplants, offering reduced chemotherapy requirements and lower side effects. Future studies are anticipated to investigate it

A groundbreaking study suggests that if we could eliminate aging mechanisms, humans could potentially live between 146 to 194 years. Researchers spotlight somatic mutations as key contributors to aging, delving into how various organs age differently. Neurons and heart muscle cells face unique challenges, while liver cells exhibit regenerative abilities. Although not a forecast for actual lifespans, this research investigates the theoretical boundaries of human longevity.

Over the last 36 years, North Carolina's coastal forests have seen a dramatic decrease in forest cover. The decline sped up after 2010 due to rising sea levels and increased salinity. The research revealed a troubling shift, with once green areas transforming into marshes, shrubs, or ghost forests. Moreover, extreme weather events have intensified the threat of saltwater intrusion, making these forests increasingly vulnerable.

Filip Lajciak has developed an innovative and cost-effective microscope capable of producing non-invasive 3D models of minute samples. By employing a stereo camera within the microscope, the device captures images from various angles and processes them into intricate point clouds and disparity maps. This cutting-edge technology holds great promise for the analysis of micro-particle structures and biological specimens. Lajciak's outstanding work was acknowledged at ISEF 2026, earning several pres

Wētāpunga, the largest giant wētā species in New Zealand, is rebounding after years of decline caused by habitat destruction and invasive predators. Thanks to dedicated conservation efforts, more than 11,000 wētāpunga have been bred and released into protected areas. With at least four generations now thriving in the wild, the program aims to sustain their growing populations and ensure their future survival.

Conservationists have been working to revive the Pacific pocket mouse populations in Southern California since their rediscovery in 1993. Since 2006, more than 530 mice have been released into their native habitats through the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance's efforts. The establishment of a third population in North San Mateo marks progress in their recovery. Additionally, genetic rescue efforts are being initiated to improve genetic diversity among the reintroduced populations.

In a fascinating move, the MV Shingle was purposefully submerged along Ireland's northwest coast, transforming into a thriving artificial reef. Legal challenges and its deteriorating state made scrapping impractical, leading to its sinking in 2024. As marine life increasingly flourishes around the wreck, the area has seen a spike in biodiversity and year-round visitor interest, highlighting the necessity of effectively managing these ecological projects for lasting benefits.

Zinave National Park in Mozambique experienced severe wildlife loss during a 16-year civil war, which impacted biodiversity. Rewilding efforts initiated in 2016 have since introduced several species, including rhinos and lions. The introduction of 250 elephants has helped restore the park's ecosystem and enhance habitats for various species. Conservation programs and anti-poaching strategies have also been implemented to protect newly introduced wildlife.

Recent analysis of lunar soil samples returned by China's Chang’e-6 mission revealed a unique form of iron. This iron, γ-Fe, exhibits exceptional magnetic properties, which could provide insights into the Moon's ancient magnetic field. Researchers suggest that extreme impacts on the lunar surface caused the formation and preservation of this unusual iron. The findings could enhance our understanding of the Moon's geological history and its evolution over time.

Researchers from the University of Texas at Austin have traced the Ames meteor impact to approximately 370 million years ago, presenting a significant revision to the previously accepted estimate of 467 million years. This research connects the impact with the Frasnian-Famennian mass extinction event, employing zircon crystals to establish a more precise timeline, thus providing deeper insights into pivotal moments in Earth's geological history.

Angela Rosenberg and her sister took a significant step by establishing the ANGARI Foundation to fill the void in marine science education. Collaborating with Florida International University, they facilitate student participation in real-world expeditions aboard the research vessel R/V ANGARI. These experiences, including shark tagging and plankton exploration, aim to ignite students' passion for marine science, fostering a connection between youth and the ocean.

A groundbreaking discovery by researchers has unveiled a new magnetic mineral, γ-Fe, found in lunar samples from the Chang'e-6 mission. This remarkable find sheds light on the ancient magnetic environment of the Moon, now long lost. Detailed analysis of tiny iron particles within lunar impact glasses reveals that γ-Fe can maintain stable magnetic signals, potentially serving as a record of the Moon's magnetic history.

The Everglades is grappling with the impacts of non-native species that are wreaking havoc on its native ecosystems. Invasive plants such as Melaleuca and Brazilian pepper are changing fire patterns and overshadowing indigenous flora. Moreover, the Burmese python is contributing to alarming drops in native mammal numbers. Ongoing management strategies are being implemented to combat these invaders, highlighting the urgent need for effective ecological restoration to safeguard this unique environ

Andrew Sun-Zhuang, a 7th grader, developed an AI-powered pitching machine to enhance his baseball skills. He utilized a Raspberry Pi, servos, and motors to construct his prototype, named VisionStrike. After training an AI model with images of himself, he achieved impressive pitching accuracy. The final machine cost only $260, significantly less than conventional models. Andrew has been passionate about baseball since childhood, displaying an interest in robotics as well.

A remarkable new insect species, Cretodorus noonoo, has been unearthed from 99 million-year-old amber found in Myanmar. This intriguing species is linked to the Neazoniidae family, renowned for its extraordinary mouthparts. These long and flexible adaptations reveal specialized feeding behaviors on tree sap. This discovery sheds light on the ecological interactions within Cretaceous forests, illustrating the diverse evolutionary strategies that shaped ancient ecosystems.