Science

The 10 most bizarre space discoveries of 2020

Space is an incredibly weird place. From extreme exoplanets to stars with strange fates, clues to an old mystery and the beginnings of a brand new one, here are 10 of the weirdest astronomical discoveries that blew our minds this year.

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Synthetic molecules mimic human cells to lure and kill the flu virus

The influenza virus has proven a very tricky foe to fight. Now, researchers at EPFL have developed synthetic molecules that can kill the flu virus by mimicking human cells, and putting the squeeze on the virus when it attaches itself to the decoy.

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Astronomers precisely trace distance to oldest and farthest known galaxy

Astronomers have precisely measured the distance to the oldest and farthest known galaxy. Light left GN-z11 around 13.4 billion years ago, when the universe was a cosmic toddler, meaning this galaxy marks the very edge of the observable universe.

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Large study shows testosterone therapy reduces diabetes risk in men

In what is described as the largest study of testosterone treatment ever carried out, involving 1,000 men between the age of 50 and 74, scientists have found regular injections of the hormone appeared to lower the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

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“Lonely brain” imaging study reveals unexpected neural patterns

A compelling study examining brain scans suggests lonely adults have a unique neural signature. The research found lonely people present increased connectivity in brain regions dedicated to tasks such as daydreaming, reminiscing and imagining.

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Pressurized CO2 used to bacteria-proof dried almonds

While you might think that dried almonds are one of the "safer" foods, they're actually prone to contamination by harmful bacteria. A simple new process could help keep that from happening, while also boosting their shelf life.

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Plant-assessing leaf-clip sensor could be a big help to farmers

If crop plants aren't receiving enough nutrients, they'll typically have lower-than-normal nitrogen levels. A portable new device could allow farmers to check those levels on the spot, so they can start addressing the problem as soon as possible.

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Single gene therapy injection surprisingly boosts vision in both eyes

One of the ways scientists hope to offer better treatments for vision loss is through gene therapy. Researchers have been left surprised by an experimental form of this, which involved an injection into one eyeball yet improved vision across both.

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Ocean Cleanup gets ready to tackle world’s most polluting rivers

The Ocean Cleanup is ramping up production of its Interceptor plastic trash removers in partnership with Konecranes, with a thousand of the world's most heavily polluting rivers in its sights.

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