37 Facts About Science News 2018

Source: Makeuseof.com

What were the most groundbreaking science news stories of 2018? From the depths of space to the mysteries of the human body, 2018 was packed with astonishing discoveries and advancements. Scientists made strides in understanding black holes, gene editing, and climate change. NASA's InSight lander touched down on Mars, giving us a closer look at the Red Planet's interior. CRISPR technology took center stage, promising potential cures for genetic diseases. Climate reports painted a stark picture of our planet's future, urging immediate action. Artificial intelligence continued to evolve, with machines learning at unprecedented rates. Plastic pollution became a hot topic, sparking global movements to reduce waste. Quantum computing edged closer to reality, hinting at a new era of technology. Dive into these 37 facts to relive the year that reshaped our understanding of the world and beyond.

Key Takeaways:

2018 was a year of incredible scientific achievements, from landing on Mars to discovering new organs in the human body. Breakthroughs in space, medicine, and technology are shaping our future.
From gene-edited babies to bionic hands controlled by the mind, 2018 was a year of mind-blowing advancements. The world of science is constantly evolving, bringing us closer to understanding the universe and improving human health.

Table of Contents

Breakthroughs in Space Exploration

2018 was a monumental year for space exploration, with numerous discoveries and advancements that captivated the world. Here are some of the most exciting space-related facts from that year.

01NASA's InSight lander successfully touched down on Mars, aiming to study the planet's interior.
02The Parker Solar Probe, launched by NASA, began its mission to study the Sun's outer corona.
03China landed the Chang'e 4 rover on the far side of the Moon, a historic first.
04The Hubble Space Telescope captured the most detailed image of the Triangulum Galaxy.
05Scientists discovered a massive underground lake on Mars, sparking discussions about potential life.

Medical Marvels and Health Discoveries

Advancements in medical science continued to improve lives and expand our understanding of human health. Here are some key medical breakthroughs from 2018.

06The first ever gene-edited babies were born in China, using CRISPR technology.
07A new Ebola vaccine showed a 97.5% effectiveness rate in trials.
08Scientists developed a blood test that can detect early-stage cancer.
09Researchers created a synthetic cornea that could restore vision for millions.
10A new drug for cystic fibrosis showed promising results in clinical trials.

Environmental and Climate Science

2018 saw significant progress in understanding and addressing environmental and climate issues. These facts highlight some of the year's most impactful discoveries.

11The UN released a report warning that we have 12 years to limit climate change catastrophe.
12Scientists discovered that the Arctic is warming twice as fast as the rest of the planet.
13A new study found that plastic pollution in the oceans is far worse than previously thought.
14Researchers identified a new species of orangutan in Indonesia, the Tapanuli orangutan.
15The Great Barrier Reef experienced its third major bleaching event in five years.

Technological Innovations

Technological advancements continued to push the boundaries of what is possible. Here are some of the most notable tech innovations from 2018.

16Google developed an AI that can make phone calls and book appointments.
17The first 5G networks were launched, promising faster internet speeds.
18Scientists created a bionic hand that can be controlled by the mind.
19Researchers developed a new type of battery that charges in seconds.
20The first quantum computer capable of solving complex problems was unveiled.

Physics and Chemistry Discoveries

2018 was a year of groundbreaking discoveries in the fields of physics and chemistry. These facts showcase some of the most significant findings.

21Scientists observed a new state of matter called time crystals.
22Researchers discovered a new form of carbon that is harder than diamond.
23The Nobel Prize in Chemistry was awarded for the development of directed evolution.
24Physicists detected neutrinos from a distant galaxy for the first time.
25A new element, oganesson, was officially added to the periodic table.

Biology and Genetics

The study of biology and genetics revealed fascinating insights into the natural world and our own genetic makeup. Here are some key discoveries from 2018.

26Scientists mapped the entire genome of wheat, a major food crop.
27Researchers discovered a new organ in the human body, the interstitium.
28A study found that octopuses can edit their own RNA, a rare ability.
29Scientists identified the genes responsible for aging in humans.
30A new species of dinosaur, the Mansourasaurus, was discovered in Egypt.

Earth and Space Phenomena

Natural phenomena and cosmic events captured the imagination of scientists and the public alike. Here are some of the most intriguing phenomena observed in 2018.

31A rare "super blue blood moon" occurred, combining a supermoon, blue moon, and lunar eclipse.
32The longest total lunar eclipse of the century took place, lasting nearly two hours.
33A massive dust storm on Mars covered the entire planet, affecting rover operations.
34Scientists observed the first interstellar object, 'Oumuamua, passing through our solar system.
35A new type of aurora, named "Steve," was discovered in the Earth's atmosphere.

Technological Innovations in Space

Space technology saw remarkable advancements, pushing the boundaries of exploration and understanding. Here are some key innovations from 2018.

36SpaceX successfully launched the Falcon Heavy, the most powerful operational rocket.
37The James Webb Space Telescope, set to replace Hubble, completed its final tests.

Science News 2018: A Year of Discovery

2018 was a whirlwind of scientific breakthroughs. From the first-ever image of a black hole to the discovery of a new human organ, the year was packed with groundbreaking findings. Scientists also made strides in gene editing with CRISPR, opening doors to potential cures for genetic disorders. Climate change research highlighted the urgent need for action, while space exploration saw new milestones with missions to Mars and beyond. Artificial intelligence continued to evolve, impacting various fields from healthcare to transportation. These advancements not only expanded our understanding of the universe but also paved the way for future innovations. Staying informed about these developments helps us appreciate the incredible progress being made and the possibilities that lie ahead. Keep an eye on the horizon; who knows what amazing discoveries await in the coming years?

Frequently Asked Questions

QWhat were some groundbreaking scientific discoveries in 2018?

In 2018, scientists made leaps and bounds across various fields. For instance, researchers developed a new enzyme capable of breaking down plastic bottles, a breakthrough in tackling pollution. Also, astronomers captured the first image of a planet being born, offering invaluable insights into planetary formation.

QHow did technology advance in 2018?

That year saw significant advancements in AI and robotics. One notable development was the creation of AI systems that could diagnose diseases with accuracy comparable to or even surpassing human doctors. Additionally, the world witnessed the introduction of more sophisticated drones for both commercial and personal use, revolutionizing photography, delivery services, and surveillance.

QWere there any major environmental studies published in 2018?

Absolutely, 2018 was a pivotal year for environmental research. Scientists released a comprehensive report on global warming, warning of the urgent need to limit temperature rise to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels to avoid catastrophic climate impacts. Another significant study showed the alarming rate of ice melt in Antarctica, raising concerns over rising sea levels.

QDid 2018 see any innovations in space exploration?

Indeed, space exploration hit several milestones. NASA's InSight lander successfully touched down on Mars, aiming to study the planet's interior for the first time. Meanwhile, SpaceX's Falcon Heavy, the most powerful operational rocket in the world, had its maiden flight, marking a significant step towards commercial space travel.

QWhat were the health and medicine highlights of 2018?

In health and medicine, groundbreaking work included the development of a new flu vaccine using mRNA technology, offering quicker and more effective responses to flu outbreaks. Another highlight was the progress in gene editing techniques, particularly CRISPR, which showed promise in treating genetic disorders by correcting mutations at their source.

QHow did 2018 contribute to renewable energy advancements?

Renewable energy saw impressive progress, with significant reductions in the cost of solar and wind power, making them more competitive with fossil fuels. Innovations in battery technology also made headlines, improving energy storage capabilities and efficiency, crucial for both electric vehicles and grid storage.

QWere there any notable achievements in physics in 2018?

Physics had its share of exciting developments. One of the most talked-about was the observation of neutrinos from a blazar, helping scientists understand the origins of high-energy cosmic rays. Additionally, researchers made strides in quantum computing, demonstrating new levels of quantum supremacy that could revolutionize computing in the future.

Was this page helpful?

Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.