New species of coral named after Chewbacca

Recent findings reveal that Bronze Age farmers often favored wine production over olives, highlighting a fascinating aspect of ancient agricultural practices. This matters because it sheds light on the cultural and economic priorities of early civilizations, suggesting that wine played a significant role in their society.

Tonight, an astonishing 262 million birds are expected to embark on their fall migration, and BirdCast is here to help you track their journey. This massive movement of birds is not only a spectacular natural event but also highlights the importance of migration patterns in understanding environmental changes. By following these migrations, we can gain insights into the health of ecosystems and the impacts of climate change.

The 2025 Audubon Photography Awards have showcased 18 stunning images that capture the beauty and diversity of birds. These photographs not only highlight the artistic talent of the photographers but also raise awareness about the importance of bird conservation. By celebrating these majestic creatures, the awards inspire a greater appreciation for wildlife and the need to protect their habitats.

A recent incident involving a zookeeper's burnt lunch has uncovered a fascinating survival skill of Australia's sleepy lizards: they instinctively flee when they detect smoke. This discovery not only highlights the lizards' remarkable adaptability but also emphasizes the importance of understanding animal behavior in the wild. Such insights can help in conservation efforts and enhance our appreciation for these unique creatures.

A mathematician has solved the intriguing problem of determining the largest sofa that can fit around a corner, which is not only a fun mathematical challenge but also has practical implications for furniture design. This discovery could help consumers make better choices when selecting sofas for their homes, especially in tricky spaces. It's a fascinating intersection of math and everyday life that highlights how theoretical concepts can have real-world applications.

Sleeping outside can have significant benefits for your health, such as resetting your body's internal clock and reducing stress levels. While the science suggests that a night under the stars can enhance well-being, it's important to note that these benefits may not apply to everyone. Understanding how outdoor sleep affects us can help individuals make informed choices about their sleep environments.

Amazon is kicking off its Prime Big Deal Days early with significant discounts on TP-Link routers and mesh WiFi systems. This is exciting news for tech enthusiasts and anyone looking to upgrade their home internet setup, as these deals provide an excellent opportunity to save on high-quality networking gear before the official sale starts on October 7th.

Astronomers have unveiled the largest 3D map of the Milky Way, charting 44 million stars across 4,000 light-years, thanks to the Gaia space observatory. This groundbreaking achievement not only enhances our understanding of our galaxy's structure but also opens new avenues for research in stellar evolution and cosmic phenomena. It's an exciting time for astronomy as we gain deeper insights into the universe around us.

Jon Jennings triumphed in the World Stone Skimming Competition despite facing allegations of 'nefarious deeds'.

Editor’s Note: This story highlights the resilience of athletes in the face of controversy. Jennings' victory showcases the spirit of competition and the ability to overcome challenges, making it a compelling narrative for sports enthusiasts.

A seagull has survived after swallowing a giant fish hook, thanks to the efforts of local veterinarians. This incident highlights the importance of wildlife rescue and rehabilitation.

Editor’s Note: This story is significant as it showcases the dedication of local vets in rescuing wildlife. It raises awareness about the dangers that litter and fishing gear pose to animals, encouraging more responsible behavior among the public.

September 16, 2025, is recognized as Pythagorean Triple Square Day, highlighting its unique mathematical significance.

Editor’s Note: This day celebrates a special mathematical phenomenon, making it a fun occasion for math enthusiasts and educators to engage with the beauty of numbers.

REI is offering over 40 styles of sunglasses on clearance during its annual sale, with prices starting at just $34 for polarized options.

Editor’s Note: This sale is a great opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts to grab high-quality sunglasses at a fraction of the price, ensuring they are protected from harmful UV rays while enjoying their activities.

The recent murder of political activist Charlie Kirk has raised serious concerns about escalating political violence in the US, especially following several high-profile attacks on political figures. This troubling trend prompts questions about the connections between these incidents and whether they reflect a growing public acceptance of such violence. In a podcast discussion, Ian Sample engages with Sean Westwood, a political science expert from Dartmouth College, to explore these alarming developments and their implications for American democracy.

As the policy review of vaccine protocols begins, questions are emerging regarding the reliability of the vaccine panel responsible for these recommendations. This scrutiny is crucial as it impacts public trust and the effectiveness of vaccination strategies, especially in light of ongoing health challenges. Stakeholders are keen to ensure that the panel's decisions are based on sound science and transparent processes.

Recent findings suggest that taking vitamin D2 supplements may actually lower the levels of vitamin D3 in the body. This is significant because vitamin D3 is often considered the more effective form of vitamin D for maintaining overall health. Understanding the relationship between these two forms of vitamin D can help individuals make informed choices about their supplementation and ensure they are getting the benefits they need.

Susan Monarez, the former director of the CDC, is set to testify regarding her disagreements with Robert F. Kennedy Jr. This testimony is significant as it sheds light on the internal conflicts within public health leadership, especially during a time when trust in health institutions is crucial. Monarez's insights could provide valuable context on the challenges faced by health officials.

NASA has announced the discovery of 6,000 exoplanets, marking a significant milestone in space exploration. This achievement opens up exciting possibilities for finding planets similar to Earth, which could potentially harbor life. As we enter this new chapter of exploration, the quest for a planet just like ours continues, sparking curiosity and hope for future discoveries.

In a proactive move, California, Oregon, Washington, and Hawaii have issued their own vaccine recommendations that align with major medical organizations. This decision comes just before an advisory panel is set to discuss potential updates to federal guidelines. By taking this step, these states aim to ensure public health and safety, especially in light of ongoing discussions about vaccination strategies.