Science news this week: A unique new blood type and 'spiderwebs' on Mars

This week’s science roundup serves up two head-turners: researchers have identified a never-before-seen human blood type, which could revolutionize transfusions and prenatal care, while NASA’s Mars rover spotted eerie, web-like formations on the planet’s surface—raising questions about geological (or, who knows, maybe even biological?) processes at work. Plus, a few quirky reads to spice up your weekend.

Editor’s Note: The new blood type isn’t just a trivia tidbit—it could save lives by preventing dangerous immune reactions in medical procedures. And those Martian "spiderwebs"? They’re a reminder that our neighboring planet still holds mysteries that could reshape how we understand the universe. Science isn’t just about textbooks; it’s unfolding in real time, with stakes that feel thrillingly human.

The tiny Pacific island nation of Tuvalu is seeing a surge in applications for a unique "climate visa" program. With rising sea levels threatening their homeland, many Tuvaluans are seeking a pathway to relocate to safer ground—in this case, Australia, which has offered special residency permits to Tuvalu citizens displaced by climate change. The high demand highlights the growing urgency of climate migration.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just another immigration story—it’s a glimpse into the future. As climate change renders some places uninhabitable, entire communities may need to relocate. Tuvalu’s situation is a test case for how nations handle climate displacement, and whether policies like this can be fair, scalable, or even enough. It’s a sobering reminder that climate change isn’t just about weather—it’s about people losing their homes.

If you or a loved one struggles with mobility but still wants a stylish, comfy chair, this roundup of the best power lift recliners in 2025 is worth a look. These chairs aren’t just functional—they blend modern design with practical features to help users stand or recline with ease.

Editor’s Note: Mobility challenges shouldn’t mean sacrificing comfort or aesthetics. This article highlights how innovation in furniture design is making daily life easier (and cozier) for people who need extra support—while keeping things sleek enough for any living space. It’s a small but meaningful upgrade for aging adults or anyone with limited mobility.

Max Fink, a psychiatrist who fiercely advocated for electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) despite decades of stigma and Hollywood-fueled misconceptions, has died at 102. He dedicated his career to defending ECT as a legitimate, often life-saving treatment for severe depression and other mental illnesses, even as critics dismissed it as barbaric. His persistence helped shift some medical and public perceptions, though the debate around ECT’s image and use continues.

Editor’s Note: Fink’s story isn’t just about one man’s legacy—it’s a snapshot of how medicine grapples with controversial treatments. ECT works for some patients when nothing else does, but its reputation (thanks in part to One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest) still overshadows its benefits. His death invites us to reconsider how we judge therapies that seem extreme but might save lives.

REI is slashing prices on a ton of outdoor gear—think camping, cycling, climbing, and more—just in time for the 4th of July. Big-name brands like Patagonia, Arc'teryx, and Hoka are part of the sale, so it’s a solid chance to snag high-quality gear at a discount.

Editor’s Note: If you’ve been eyeing pricey outdoor equipment but hesitated because of the cost, this sale could be your moment. REI’s deals don’t come around often, and with summer in full swing, it’s a great time to upgrade your gear without breaking the bank.