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Tom Gauld on an incomplete theory of everything

Tom Gauld on an incomplete theory of everything

16 September 2021

Tom Gauld's weekly cartoon


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Cryptic crossword #66: Transport cargo of aubergines (4)

16 September 2021

Challenge your brain by solving New Scientist's weekly crosswords on your mobile, tablet or desktop


The pick of the strange science that won Ig Nobel prizes this year

The pick of the strange science that won Ig Nobel prizes this year

15 September 2021

Chewing gum forensics, sex as a decongestant and attempts to find the smell of fear all scooped accolades at the 2021 Ig Nobel award ceremony, with Feedback watching on


Spoiled onion in empty fridge. Copy Space. Stefania Pelfini, La Waziya Photography

This week’s new questions

15 September 2021

How do astronomers decide where a galaxy begins and ends? And why do onions and radishes continue to grow in the darkness of my refrigerator?


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What is the smallest number with no interesting properties? (cont'd)

15 September 2021

As more readers ponder this question, It turns out that the numbers 51 and 247 aren’t so boring after all


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My hair has a kink. How do the hairs know exactly where to bend?

15 September 2021

Readers debate whether hair curls are down to genetics, the shape of folicles or the way we sleep or brush


R5X7FW Cute small white dog rolling in mud and fall leaves

Why do dogs enjoy rolling in smelly fox or bird faeces?

15 September 2021

Readers suggest that it is a form of olfactory disguise - much to the chagrin of dog owners


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Puzzle #131: What is the probability of winning this game of chance?

15 September 2021

Can you solve this week’s fiendish puzzle The Paradise Club? Plus the answer to puzzle #131


Modern directional environmental street lighting with minimal light pollution on Cranley Gardens at dusk night in Muswell Hill, with Alexandra Palace, London N10, England

Help create a global map of light pollution by gazing at the night sky

15 September 2021

Scientists are tracking light pollution and its effects globally by gazing at the night sky – and now the Globe at Night project needs your help


See the unique skeletal features of moray eels in exquisite detail

See the unique skeletal features of moray eels in exquisite detail

15 September 2021

From long, flexible spines to highly specialised double jaws that let them swallow large prey whole, moray eels have a fascinating biology


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