How ‘Oumuamua got its shape

When ‘Oumuamua (oh-moo-ah-moo-ah) was discovered in 2017, it became the first known object to travel from a different solar system to our own. It’s also quite weirdly-shaped, and it’s possible that these facts are linked. Most space-rocks, such as asteroids and comets, can be roughly described as potato-shaped – somewhat round, but definitely not spherical. … Continue reading How ‘Oumuamua got its shape →

The amazing electric bacteria: power out of thin air

When looking to invent a new technology, often the best approach is to copy or steal from nature. This even applies to electronics, as shown by researchers from America. They’re using bacteria to generate electricity out of the air itself. The Geobacter variety of bacteria produces a type of protein ‘nanowire’ that is able to … Continue reading The amazing electric bacteria: power out of thin air →

Rhinos use bird-lar alarms

Rhinos have a unique relationship with oxpeckers. These small birds live on the backs of large mammals, eating the parasites that infest their skin. However, they also provide another vital service – protection from hunters. Rhinos have incredibly poor eyesight; anything more than a few metres away gets very blurry. Generally, they use their senses … Continue reading Rhinos use bird-lar alarms →

Secrets of the best smell in the world

Okay, I’ll admit this is just my personal opinion, but the smell of rain on dry ground is by far the greatest smell in existence. I assume that at least some of you agree, and humans aren’t the only ones. This smell is known as petrichor, and it’s caused by several factors. One of these … Continue reading Secrets of the best smell in the world →

Meet the dwarf planets

What is a dwarf planet? There are three rules something has to follow to be called a planet: It must orbit the Sun.It must be round.It must have “cleared the neighbourhood around its orbit”. This means that there can’t be any other objects sharing the orbit, unless they are controlled by the planet’s gravity (for … Continue reading Meet the dwarf planets →