2024 has been an exciting year for science, with breakthroughs ranging from space travel advancements to environmental discoveries. While challenges like climate change persist, several positive scientific developments have captured global attention. Here are seven of the most uplifting science stories of the year.
1. SpaceX Achieves Major Milestone in Reusable Rockets
In October, Elon Musk’s SpaceX made history when its Starship rocket successfully returned to its launch pad, marking a world-first achievement. The lower booster rocket, instead of falling into the sea, was caught by giant mechanical arms or “chopsticks” during its fifth test flight. This remarkable feat brought SpaceX closer to developing a fully reusable rocket, a key step toward making space travel more affordable and sustainable. “A day for the history books,” SpaceX engineers declared after the successful landing, signaling significant progress in the mission to send humans to the Moon and Mars.
2. Mapping the Fruit Fly Brain
In a groundbreaking development, scientists successfully mapped the entire brain of a fruit fly, comprising 130,000 cells and 50 million connections. This detailed analysis, published in October, provides the most comprehensive map of an adult animal brain to date. Experts hailed the achievement as a “huge leap” in understanding not only the fruit fly’s brain but potentially our own. The research is expected to offer new insights into the mechanisms of thought and brain function.
3. Discovery of a Lost Jungle City
A PhD student at Tulane University, Luke Auld-Thomas, made an accidental yet astonishing discovery while researching environmental data. Using laser survey data from a Mexican environmental organization, Auld-Thomas uncovered a long-lost Mayan city hidden beneath the jungle canopy in Mexico. The city, named Valeriana, may have been home to 30,000 to 50,000 people at its peak during the 8th and 9th centuries. Archaeologists found pyramids, sports fields, and amphitheaters, all mapped through Lidar technology, which uses lasers to detect structures beneath vegetation.
4. Hope for the Northern White Rhino
In conservation news, there was renewed hope for the northern white rhino, a species on the brink of extinction. Scientists reported progress in efforts to produce viable embryos using advanced reproductive technologies. With only two female northern white rhinos remaining in the world, this breakthrough could offer a glimmer of hope for the species’ survival.
5. A Solar Eclipse Captivates Millions
In a stunning celestial event, a total solar eclipse captivated millions across the globe. The phenomenon, which saw the moon completely obscure the sun, offered both awe and a reminder of the wonders of our universe.
6. Groundbreaking Advances in Disease Research
2024 also saw significant advances in the fight against diseases like Alzheimer’s. Researchers developed new treatments and diagnostic tools that could improve patient care and bring us closer to finding a cure.
7. Climate Change Awareness
While 2024 is predicted to be the warmest year on record, scientists have continued to raise awareness and develop solutions to combat climate change. Efforts in renewable energy, sustainable practices, and environmental conservation have made important strides, offering a collective push toward a more sustainable future.
Despite the challenges, these uplifting scientific milestones remind us of the potential for innovation and progress in addressing some of the world’s most pressing issues.