What you need to know in science and culture for 2023 | New Scientist Weekly podcast 156

TL;DR

Year 2023 brings planetary missions, COVID vaccine advancements, deep-sea mining controversy, sustainability efforts, synthetic embryos research, books, movies, and games.

Transcript

before we start I want to tell you about a free online event on the 12th of January wonders of the Arctic science on top of the world in this event biologists and New Scientist podcast host Ron Hooper that's me we'll talk about some of the uniquely adapted wildlife of the region and discuss how humans could refreeze the ice in the Arctic Circle as ... Read More

Key Insights

• 🥮 Exciting planetary missions to explore Jupiter's moons and the asteroid Psyche offer valuable scientific opportunities.
• 👨‍🔬 Ongoing research strives to develop improved COVID vaccines targeting evolving variants and enhancing mucosal immunity.
• 🤢 Deep-sea mining poses environmental risks and sparks ethical debates over resource extraction from untouched oceanic depths.
• ❓ President Lula's forest protection initiative heralds a positive environmental shift in Amazon conservation efforts.
• 🤨 Synthetic embryo research provides insights into reproduction and embryonic development, raising ethical and regulatory considerations.
• 📙 The cultural landscape of 2023 offers a diverse range of books, movies, and games to entertain and educate audiences.
• 💱 Exploration of synthetic embryos in animal models and potential regulatory changes may impact reproductive studies and advancements.

Questions & Answers

Q: What are the two significant planetary missions launching in 2023?

In 2023, there will be two major launches, including the JUICE mission to Jupiter's icy moons and the Psyche mission to explore a unique metallic asteroid between Mars and Jupiter.

Q: How are researchers planning to design improved COVID vaccines?

Researchers aim to create universal vaccines targeting invariant virus parts and enhancing mucosal immunity for improved infection prevention and transmission control.

Q: What environmental concerns are associated with deep-sea mining?

Deep-sea mining raises concerns about damaging pristine deep-sea ecosystems, impacting unknown marine species, and transforming the ocean into an industrial zone.

Q: How is President Lula's forest protection initiative a positive outcome for the Amazon?

President Lula's pledge to halt deforestation in the Amazon by 2030 has led to the relaunch of the Amazon Fund, releasing funds for forest protection efforts and signaling global environmental action.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Planetary Missions: Expect exciting missions to Jupiter and asteroid Psyche that offer insights into planetary exploration.

• COVID Vaccines Advances: Focus on developing universal vaccines for evolving variants and improved delivery methods for better efficacy.

• Deep-Sea Mining Controversy: A looming showdown in July over regulations for deep-sea mining poses environmental risks and benefits.