Satellite coated in ultra-dark 'Vantablack' paint will launch into space next year to help combat major issue

China just pulled off a high-altitude space rendezvous—22,000 miles above Earth—where a new refueling spacecraft docked with an older satellite. This isn’t just a technical flex; it suggests China is advancing its ability to maintain and extend the life of satellites already in orbit, a capability that’s both strategic and economically valuable.

Editor’s Note: Think of this like a roadside assistance truck meeting up with a car that’s running low on gas—except in space, where repairs or refuels are way harder. If China can reliably service satellites in high orbits (where critical communications and GPS satellites often operate), it could save billions by keeping aging tech alive longer—or, more controversially, manipulate or disable other nations’ satellites. Either way, it’s a big step in the quiet but high-stakes race for orbital dominance.

Scientists have developed a new type of paint infused with cement that essentially "sweats" to cool buildings down. As temperatures rise, this innovative material could cut electricity use by reducing the need for air conditioning—a clever (and slightly weird) solution to a growing problem.

Editor’s Note: With heatwaves becoming more intense, energy-guzzling AC units are straining power grids and driving up emissions. This paint isn’t just a neat science trick—it’s a practical way to keep buildings cooler without cranking up the thermostat, which could save money and help the planet. Who knew sweating walls could be a good thing?

A new study reveals that around 70,000 years ago, early humans in Africa began pushing into harsher, more extreme environments—think deserts, mountains, and dense forests—before eventually spreading across the globe. This adaptability might have been the key to our species' survival and dominance.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just a cool history lesson—it helps explain how humans became the ultimate survivors. By figuring out how to thrive in tough conditions early on, our ancestors set the stage for everything that followed, from ancient civilizations to modern cities. It’s a reminder that our species’ knack for problem-solving and adaptation goes way, way back.

If you're someone who needs to print on the go—whether for work, travel, or creative projects—this roundup has you covered. Popular Science tested portable printers from top brands like Canon, HP, Epson, and Kodak to find the best options for 2025, so you don’t have to guess which one’s worth your money.

Editor’s Note: Portable printers might sound niche, but they’re a game-changer for anyone who needs physical copies of documents or photos while away from a desk—think contractors, photographers, or even parents printing last-minute permission slips. This review cuts through the noise to highlight the most reliable picks, saving you time and hassle.

The Vera C. Rubin Observatory—home to the world’s largest digital camera—is about to drop its first ultra-detailed images of the cosmos, giving us a jaw-dropping peek into the universe. If you’re eager to see them, we’ve got the scoop on where and how to catch these groundbreaking snapshots when they go live Monday.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just another space photo dump—it’s a milestone. The Rubin Observatory’s camera is so powerful it could revolutionize how we study the universe, from tracking asteroids to uncovering dark matter. For space nerds and casual stargazers alike, these images are a glimpse into the future of astronomy.