Feature
- Science & Society
What’s ahead for science in 2017?
Science News writers reveal what they are watching for — and hoping for — in the year ahead.
- Science & Society
Top 10 science stories of 2016: Gravitational waves, Zika, Proxima b and more
The detection of gravitational waves takes the top spot in our top 10 stories of 2016. Also on the list: Zika’s devastation, a nearby exoplanet discovery and more.
- Physics
Year in review: Gravitational waves offer new cosmic views
The first direct detection of gravitational waves will open a new window on black holes and introduce a new era in astronomy.
- Health & Medicine
Year in review: Zika virus devastates Brazil and spreads fear across Americas
The increase in microcephaly in Brazil has spread fear of Zika infection across the Americas.
- Astronomy
Year in review: A planet lurks around the star next door
If people ever travel beyond the solar system, the newly discovered exoplanet around Proxima Centauri is likely to be a first stop.
- Genetics
Year in review: ‘Three-parent baby’ technique raises hope and concern
Safety and ethical concerns surround controversial mitochondrial replacement therapy.
- Climate
Year in review: Sea ice loss will shake up ecosystems
Researchers are studying the complex biological consequences of polar melting and opening Arctic passageways.
- Genetics
Year in review: How humans populated the globe
DNA studies put new twists on timing of ancient human migrations – but genetics alone are not enough to tell the full story.
- Life
Year in review: ‘Minimal genome’ makes its debut
A synthetic cell reported this year jettisons unnecessary genes and embraces human design principles.
- Neuroscience
Year in review: Alzheimer’s drug may clarify disease’s origins
Researchers will now test whether a treatment that swept away amyloid brain plaques also improves cognitive performance.
- Earth
Year in review: Ozone hole officially on the mend
Research this year confirms that the Antarctic ozone hole is healing — an international success attributed to cooperation and new technologies.
- Computing
Year in review: AlphaGo scores a win for artificial intelligence
AlphaGo’s triumph over its human opponent provides a glimpse into the future of artificial intelligence.
