‘I didn’t give much thought to the universe’: India’s first astronaut in 40 years inspires next generation of stargazers

This week’s science news is a wild mix of the awe-inspiring and the mind-bending. Researchers are exploring ways to "bring back" giant ancient birds—think ostrich-sized creatures from the past—while another study suggests Earth’s poles might be shifting faster than we thought. It’s the kind of stuff that makes you pause and wonder: are we living in a sci-fi novel?

Editor’s Note: On one hand, the idea of reviving extinct megafauna taps into our fascination with de-extinction (and maybe a little Jurassic Park nostalgia). On the other, polar shifts could have real-world implications for navigation and climate. Together, they’re a reminder that science keeps uncovering surprises—some thrilling, some sobering—about our planet’s past and future.

While ground teams gear up for the return of the Axiom-4 mission, the crew aboard the spacecraft is still busy conducting scientific experiments in orbit. If the weather cooperates, the crew—including astronaut Shux—is scheduled to undock and begin their journey back to Earth on July 14 at 4:35 PM IST.

Editor’s Note: This update keeps us in the loop about the behind-the-scenes work of space missions—balancing the excitement of a crew’s return with the steady grind of ongoing research in orbit. It’s a reminder that even as missions near their end, science doesn’t stop until the last possible moment. For space enthusiasts, it’s a peek into the meticulous planning (and weather-dependent chaos) that shapes human spaceflight.

India's first astronaut in four decades, Shubhanshu Shukla, is sparking a wave of inspiration across the country as kids eagerly track the International Space Station's flyover this weekend. His journey to the stars has turned ordinary schoolchildren into budding stargazers, many of whom are now dreaming big about space for the first time.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about one astronaut—it’s about reigniting a sense of wonder. Shukla’s mission is making space feel tangible for a new generation in India, where space programs often seem distant or elite. When kids see someone like them up there, it transforms "impossible" into "maybe one day." That kind of hope is contagious.

Archaeologists in Belize have uncovered the tomb of an ancient Maya ruler, packed with fascinating artifacts—including a striking jadeite mosaic death mask and intricately shaped vessels depicting animals like owls and monkeys. This discovery offers a rare glimpse into the rituals and craftsmanship of a civilization that thrived centuries ago.

Scientists are uncovering clues about why polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) often affects multiple generations in families. A new study points to "epigenetic memory"—changes in gene activity passed down without altering the DNA itself—as a possible culprit. This could explain the stubborn hereditary pattern of PCOS and open doors for better treatments.

Editor’s Note: PCOS is a frustrating, poorly understood condition that messes with fertility, hormones, and metabolism. If epigenetics plays a role, it’s a big deal—not just for explaining family ties, but for eventually developing targeted therapies. For millions of women, this research could be a step toward answers that feel personal, not just clinical.