Science

Latest Science News

📅May 17, 2026 at 1:00 AM
Today’s science news spans climate risks, space objects, planetary mysteries, and major discoveries in astronomy, geology, and biology.
1

Super El Niño Could Bring Global Climate Disruptions in 2026

Scientists are warning that a powerful Super El Niño may be forming in the Pacific and could affect weather patterns worldwide in 2026. Researchers say it could intensify heatwaves, weaken monsoons, and raise food and water security concerns, especially in India Source 1.

2

Recently Discovered Asteroid Set for Close Earth Flyby

A newly discovered asteroid is expected to sweep past Earth at close range on May 18, 2026. Reports note it will be tracked near the constellation Ursa Major before the flyby, giving astronomers a valuable observing opportunity Source 2.

3

NASA Releases Detailed Map of Nearly 6,000 Exoplanets

NASA has shared a major space map highlighting almost 6,000 known exoplanets, offering a broader view of planetary systems beyond our solar system. The map draws on TESS observations and helps researchers compare how exoplanets are distributed across the galaxy Source 3.

4

Fossils Reveal Giant Dinosaur in Southeast Asia

Scientists in Thailand have identified fossils from a giant dinosaur, adding to evidence of the region’s rich prehistoric biodiversity. The find helps fill gaps in the dinosaur record for Southeast Asia and may improve understanding of ancient ecosystems Source 3.

5

Researchers Say Venus Cloud Feature Was Caused by a 'Hydraulic Jump'

A new explanation has been proposed for a giant cloud structure observed on Venus. Scientists say the feature may be the result of a fast-moving shallow flow suddenly slowing and deepening, a process known as a hydraulic jump Source 3.

6

Bermuda Triangle Mystery May Be Explained by Geology and Rogue Waves

Researchers are revisiting the Bermuda Triangle legend with a new geological explanation for some disappearances. One theory suggests rogue waves and the area’s unusual underwater structure may create dangerous conditions for ships and aircraft Source 4Source 3.

7

Antarctic Ice Study Hints Earth Passed Through Supernova Debris

A study of Antarctic ice has found evidence suggesting Earth may have traveled through supernova debris in the distant past. Researchers analyzed 295 kilograms of ice cores, looking for traces that could reveal ancient cosmic events Source 3.

8

Scientists Identify a Dwarf Galaxy Possibly Absorbed by the Milky Way

Astronomers say they may have found the remnants of a dwarf galaxy that merged with the Milky Way billions of years ago. The conclusion came from studying 20 metal-poor stars along the galactic plane, offering clues to our galaxy’s growth history Source 3.

9

New X-Ray Source Could Help Solve the Mystery of 'Little Red Dots'

Researchers have identified a rare X-ray source that may help explain the nature of mysterious distant objects called “little red dots.” The source, located about 11.8 billion light-years away, could shed light on early galaxy and black hole evolution Source 3.

10

Mars Moon Phobos May Be Breaking Apart

Scientists warn that Mars’s moon Phobos could eventually destroy itself as debris falls back onto its surface before it breaks apart. Modeling suggests tidal stress is reshaping the moon and may determine how it ends its life Source 3.

11

Coal Pollution Found to Reduce Solar Power Output Worldwide

A new study reports that pollution from coal-fired power plants is significantly lowering the output of solar photovoltaic systems. Researchers say airborne particles reduce sunlight reaching panels, creating an unexpected drag on clean-energy generation Source 5.

12

Microplastics May Be Weakening the Ocean’s Carbon Sink

ScienceDaily highlights new research suggesting microplastics are disrupting marine processes that help oceans absorb carbon dioxide. The finding raises concerns that plastic pollution may be undermining one of Earth’s major climate defenses Source 6.