SAN ANTONIO — June 8, 2026 — Southwest Research Institute scientists modeled the early impact history of Earth, seeking insight into potential origins of life. These models show that asteroid impacts on the early Earth plowed up surfaces and generated hydrothermal systems, environments where life could have evolved.

Researchers discover that tiny atmospheric particles can have opposite effects on Earth's climate depending on how quickly the atmosphere responds. Why it matters: Aerosols are one of the largest sources of uncertainty in climate projections. This study shows that their impact can change over time, initially warming the atmosphere before later cooling it. The findings could help scientists improve climate models and make more accurate predictions of future climate change.

Scientists have shed light on a thermal process in magma that may help explain why similar volcanic systems can produce very different eruptive behaviours.

A three-year study has cracked open the hidden biology behind coral reproduction, revealing hormone cycles that echo those of humans and other animals, and a new way to detect reef distress before it's too late.

New study finds that ancient hominins nearly 800,000 years ago deliberately selected specific basalt sources for different stages of tool production rather than simply using whatever stone was available nearby. By tracing the geochemical “fingerprints” of stone tools to both exposed and now-buried basalt flows, the researchers demonstrated that these hominins possessed detailed environmental knowledge, advanced planning abilities, and long-term technological traditions that were maintained and repeated across generations.

Tokyo, Japan – Researchers from Tokyo Metropolitan University have used simulations to show that a newly developed, compact X-ray telescope could be used to map the chemical composition of the entire Moon surface, a vital breakthrough for understanding its geological evolution. Detailed modeling of the detector and a realistic satellite mission show that two years would be enough to map five key elements, while an array of five-by-five detectors could improve resolution and get results faster.