Science
From mathematics and AI to medicine and psychology, The Optimist Daily features the latest news on discoveries, technological advances, and breakthroughs in the world of science. Our Science section is here to engage and enlighten you.
European Space Agency is engineering its first reusable spacecraft
The European Space Agency (ESA) is building a new spacecraft, but this one will have a special sustainable twist. The Space Rider craft is expected to be the agency’s first reusable spacecraft and is expected to be able to venture into orbit multiple times with safe returns to Earth. The Read More...
Engineers receive grant to create rail car powered by human waste
In the near future, people in the UK may be transported on trains that run on human waste. Yes, you read that right. Last month, Ultra Light Rail Partners received £60,000 ($81,540) from the government’s Sustainable Innovation Fund to further develop a train that runs on biomethane, a type of Read More...
Huge US rail trail project will allow cyclists to bike coast to coast
Bike trails have proved invaluable for recreation and transport during the lockdown, displaying how important it is for cities to integrate safe cycling and walking routes within their post-pandemic recovery. However, it's not just cities that are making an effort to create more bike lanes. Dubbed Read More...
Turn your regular bike into an e-bike with this clever attachment
Unless you live in a flat country like the Netherlands, chances are you have to navigate up a few hills during your daily commute. That idea alone might be enough to deter many folks from opting to ride a bike on their way to work. For that reason, product designer Somnath Ray decided to create a Read More...
These lightweight drones are made from old pineapple leaves
Farmers in Malaysia often burn or throw away pineapple leaves after the fruit has been harvested for the season. Researchers from Putra University have found an ingenious new use for these leaves by repurposing them into a lightweight, sustainable drone. Led by Professor Mohamed Thariq Hameed Read More...
EVs greatly outsold gas-powered cars in Norway last year
Only when people start purchasing more electric vehicles than gas-powered ones can we truly say that the EV revolution is underway. Although the US still has a long way to go until that point is reached, there is one country where more than half of all cars sold are electric: Norway. According to Read More...
Researchers solve key desalination efficiency mystery
Desalination is the process of removing salt and other chemicals from water to make it potable. It holds immense promise for providing clean water in the future as we face dwindling fresh water supplies for a growing population. For years, inconsistent efficiency in desalination baffled Read More...
Do you have unused frequent flier miles? Here's where to donate them
If you’re looking for more ways to give back this year, your frequent flier miles could be a surprisingly good place to start. If your miles are piling up without this year’s usual travel, you can donate them to someone in need with just the click of a button. Here are some of the ways to put Read More...
New 3D printing technique is more efficient and less wasteful
Traditional 3D printing begins at the bottom of an object and steadily adds layers, but a team of researchers from Penn State has come up with an innovative new way to print objects that is more efficient and faster than previous methods. Called five-axis additive 3D-printing, the new method Read More...
Massachusetts to require all car sales to be electric by 2035
Back in September, we shared a story about California’s commendable decision to ban the sale of new gas-powered cars by 2035. Now, following in the footsteps of the Golden State, Massachusetts says it will do the same in a bid to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions. The move is part of the Read More...