Science Brief: AI Breakthroughs, Space Exploration, and Human Origins
AI helps Stanford scientists discover "natural Ozempic" without the usual side effects
Stanford Medicine researchers, using AI, have identified a naturally occurring molecule called BRP that may suppress appetite and reduce body weight similarly to Ozempic, but with a more targeted mechanism that could avoid common side effects. Read more: AI helps Stanford scientists discover "natural Ozempic" without the usual side effects
Ancient ape fossil in Egypt challenges the story of human origins
Researchers have identified a fossil ape from northern Egypt that appears closer to living apes than any known East African species of similar age, suggesting North Africa and the Middle East may have been a critical birthplace for the ape lineage. Read more: Ancient ape fossil in Egypt challenges the story of human origins
China's Tianwen-1 captures interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS near Mars
China's Tianwen-1 orbiter has captured images of the interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS during its close approach to Mars, revealing the comet's tail and glowing coma. The observations offer scientists an unprecedented glimpse of material that originated from outside our solar system. Read more: China's Tianwen-1 captures interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS near Mars
Starship's Triumph: SpaceX's Leap Toward Routine Space Travel
SpaceX's Starship program marks significant progress in the push toward making space travel more accessible, with the spacecraft emerging as a pivotal development for future missions. Read more: Starship's Triumph: SpaceX's Leap Toward Routine Space Travel
NASA to Support Blue Origin New Glenn Rocket Testing, Advance Artemis
NASA has announced support for Blue Origin's New Glenn rocket testing program, aiming to advance capabilities for the Artemis lunar exploration missions. Read more: NASA to Support Blue Origin New Glenn Rocket Testing, Advance Artemis
A Pitt-led team plans to automate quantum computing research with a Department of Energy grant
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have received Department of Energy funding to develop AI-driven automation for quantum computing research, potentially accelerating discovery in the field. Read more: A Pitt-led team plans to automate quantum computing research with a Department of Energy grant