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.
Fungus found in Chernobyl could protect astronauts from cosmic radiation
One of the biggest challenges facing crewed missions to Mars is figuring out how to protect crewmembers from the onslaught of deadly cosmic rays. Now, scientists at a number of universities say there’s growing evidence that an unusual solution could be effective: building shields out of a Read More...
NASA calls on young scientists to solve the problem of sticky lunar dust
This week on The Optimist Daily Update, our CEO Summers and Editor in Chief Kristy discussed the undervalued role that ingenious teens play in our society. Whether it’s coming up with coloring books to teach kids about the pandemic or donating to climate action, the next generation is a real Read More...
Our public transit systems can help us fight racism. Here's how
In the US, the opportunities afforded to people can often rely on how connected their communities are transportation-wise. This is something Darnell Grisby knows well. Growing up as a Black man in Southern California during the 1980s and 1990s, Darnell Grisby saw how limited public transportation Read More...
These stickers help people with disabilities get a seat on public transit
“Please offer me a seat. Not all disabilities are visible,” reads a new sticker that’s available to buy online, intended for disabled people who struggle to find seating on public transit. The idea is the brainchild of Catherine Callahan, who volunteers with Bay Area Rapid Transit, the Read More...
When users play this virtual game, millions of real trees are planted
Since its launch in 2016, over half a billion people have used Ant Forest to convert lower-carbon activities such as using public transport into real trees. The game is helping China lead the way in re-greening the planet and is serving as a model for tree-planting schemes elsewhere. It's the Read More...
How hair-regrowth tech could actually reverse age-related hearing loss
A landmark study presents a novel hypothesis to explain the age-related hearing loss, challenging the prevailing view that has dominated over half a century of medical science. The new research offers evidence to suggest an age-related hearing loss is primarily caused by accumulated damage to inner Read More...
New kitchen coating prevents food poisoning
Cross-contamination from kitchen equipment like cutting boards and knives is a big hot spot for the spread of foodborne illnesses. Now, a team from the University of Missouri has created a coating that could prevent germs like Salmonella and E. coli from occupying kitchen surfaces. The coating Read More...
Research uncovers the complex world of beluga whale friendships
Most of us are missing our friends a lot these days. New research shows that humans aren’t the only ones that develop these feelings of loving companionship with those we meet. It turns out beluga whales also make the distinction between their immediate kin and more distant non-familial Read More...
New York State will invest $750 million in EV charging infrastructure
Alongside 14 other states, New York recently announced that it will electrify all its trucks, vans, and buses by 2050 - in what could be one of the most comprehensive efforts to cut diesel engine pollution in the US. Now, in a bid to pave the way for real progress towards its zero-emissions goal, Read More...
This egg-based solution keeps produce stay fresh longer
Produce at your local grocery store is likely coated in carnauba wax to keep it from perishing, but now, researchers at Rice University have discovered a new way to keep fruits and veggies fresh for longer with an innovative egg-based wash. The new coating is great for vulnerable produce like Read More...