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Rachel Kushner

Creation Lake author Rachel Kushner on the 'ultimate writer's task'

8 November 2024

In her thrilling new climate fiction novel Creation Lake, Rachel Kushner explores the isolated life of an undercover operative who infiltrates an environmental activist group.


We are a long way from pregnancy being safe on Mars

8 November 2024

Dangerous radiation reaches Mars at levels we aren't exposed to on Earth, which makes the Red Planet a particularly dangerous place to be during pregnancy


Why hairy animals shake themselves dry

Why hairy animals shake themselves dry

7 November 2024

The brain pathway that causes hairy mammals like mice and dogs to shake themselves dry appears to have more to do with pressure than temperature


Slick trick separates oil and water with 99.9 per cent purity

7 November 2024

Oil and water can be separated efficiently by pumping the mixture through thin channels between two semipermeable membranes


Bird flu antibodies found in dairy workers in Michigan and Colorado

Bird flu antibodies found in dairy workers in Michigan and Colorado

7 November 2024

Blood tests have shown that about 7 per cent of workers on dairy farms that had H5N1 outbreaks had antibodies against the disease


Two yellow-bellied marmots on a rock in the Okanagan area of British Columbia, Canada

Marmots could have the solution to a long-running debate in evolution

7 November 2024

When it comes to the survival of animals living in the wild, the characteristics of the group can matter as much as the traits of the individual, according to a study in marmots


New Scientist. Science news and long reads from expert journalists, covering developments in science, technology, health and the environment on the website and the magazine.

The science of biodiversity: Costa Rica

7 November 2024

November 2025 - 13 days

Register now at tours@newscientist.com and we will contact you when we have confirmed the itinerary, dates and prices of this tour.


Join this amazing expedition where you will experience Costa Rica's biodiversity first-hand and delve deep into the science behind it. This trip will encompass a wealth of fascinating ecosystems, including cloud forests, wetlands, primary rainforests, volcanic zones and the rich variety of life in marine reserves and national parks.

Costa Rica is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world in terms of species density, even though it covers just 0.03 per cent of Earth’s land surface. Discover many species including whales, dolphins, iguanas, sloths, monkeys and a multitude of birds and butterflies. But biodiversity isn’t just about the number of species – it is also about how they interact with each other to create a complex ecosystem.

You will be accompanied throughout by a tour leader with a passion for biodiversity and be able to discuss in depth the dozens of different ecosystems that you can find in Costa Rica. They will offer insights into the biology, ecology, agriculture, sustainability and environmental stewardship of this fascinating country, where 25 per cent of the land is protected. Local guides, conservationists, biologists and naturalists will immerse you in the country’s natural splendours and demonstrate why Costa Rica is officially at the top of the Happy Planet Index.

Explore some of Costa Rica's stunning highlights. From strolling through the historic streets of San Jose, walking high up along Monteverde's sky walk trails through the cloud forest and feeling the strength of the Arenal Volcano. You will also have the opportunity to explore some fascinating conservation and community projects, including a bat jungle and cacao project. 

Group size of no more than 16 guests.

In partnership with Intrepid Travel.


New Scientist. Science news and long reads from expert journalists, covering developments in science, technology, health and the environment on the website and the magazine.

The world capital of astronomy: Chile - 3 places remaining

7 November 2024

27 March 2025 - 13 days for £10,999 - 3 places remaining

Register for 2026 now at tours@newscientist.com and we will contact you later this year with confirmed tour details.


Experience the astronomical highlights of Chile, known as an astronomer's mecca. With 70% of the world’s telescopes, Chile truly is the world capital of astronomy. Visit some of the world's most technologically advanced observatories and stargaze beneath some of the clearest skies on earth.

Chile hosts some of the world's most advanced observatories, such as the Very Large Telescope (VLT), the Atacama Large Millimeter/submillimeter Array (ALMA), and the future Extremely Large Telescope (ELT) in the Atacama, as well as prominent observatories in the Elqui Valley. Many of its observatories, including those in the Elqui Valley, are situated at high altitudes, often above 2,000 meters, an advantage as it places telescopes above much of the Earth's atmosphere that can distort and absorb light. These remote locations ensure minimal light pollution, crucial for deep-sky observation. The atmospheric conditions over these parts of Chile, both in the Atacama Desert and the Elqui Valley, are extremely stable, leading to less turbulence and, therefore, clearer astronomical images. 

During this tour, visit world leading observatories including Vera C. Rubin and Paranal. Enjoy the amazing landscapes of the Atacama Desert, traditional cuisine, and the fascinating towns and cities of this highly stimulating country.

Gain hands-on experience at historic and modern observatories, meet local experts and stargaze at several sites near San Pedro, Santiago and Vicuña. 

Senior lecturer in space science at the University of South Wales, Martin Griffiths will accompany you throughout. Martin will give lectures and walking seminars throughout, as well as leading stargazing sessions.

This tour is suited for both those with little background in astronomy as well as those with lots of experience.

In partnership with Intrepid Travel.


New Scientist. Science news and long reads from expert journalists, covering developments in science, technology, health and the environment on the website and the magazine.

Tasmania's flora, fauna and geology: Australia

7 November 2024

1 April 2025 - 12 days for £5,795

Tasmania is a nature lover’s wonderland, offering a bounty of natural wonders, like Bruny Island and boasting some of Australia’s finest beaches, mistiest mountaintops, loneliest patches of wilderness and most elusive animals.

Join our highly immersive expedition around the reserves, coasts, wetlands, rain forests, national parks and alpine landscapes of Tasmania in search of its diverse wildlife, amazing flora and ancient geological features. Discover the islands rich Aboriginal culture dating back more than 35,000 years.

You can expect to see everything from Tasmanian devils, platypus, little penguins and the eastern quoll along with numerous birds and endemic species. You will have a deeply personal experience, in an intimate atmosphere designed to be low impact on the places visited.

You will be accompanied by biologist and passionate conservationist, Dr Martin Cohen who will engage and educate you on the beauty and ecological wonder of Australia's hidden gem. You will travel throughout by expedition vehicle, on foot and by boat staying in a range of accommodation from 4-star luxury to farm stays and log-built cottages within the rainforest. Visiting the capital Hobart, Mount Field National Park, Cradle Mountain, Maria Island and Bruny Island.

The tour is ideal for those with all levels of expertise, as it acts as a fantastic introduction to Tasmania’s amazing flora, fauna and geology and how it is being protected whilst allowing those with a deeper understanding to observe a great many species on land, in the skies and at sea.

In partnership with Intrepid Travel. 


New Scientist. Science news and long reads from expert journalists, covering developments in science, technology, health and the environment on the website and the magazine.

The history of science in Copenhagen: Denmark

7 November 2024

14 May 2025 6 days for £3,168


Join this fascinating tour that takes a deep dive into the scientific heritage of Copenhagen, known as the birthplace of quantum physics. Uncover a rich history of scientific developments not only from Niels Bohr, but from a whole host of Danish scientists, including Tycho Brahe and Ole Rømer.  

Copenhagen, Denmark’s vibrant capital, is known for its blend of historic charm and modern innovation. With its colourful Nyhavn harbor, world-class museums, and iconic landmarks like the Little Mermaid statue, Copenhagen offers a unique mix of Scandinavian culture and history.

It was in Copenhagen that astronomer, astrologer, and alchemist Tycho Brahe (14 December 1546 – 24 October 1601) made his unprecedented observations of the night sky, and Niels Bohr (7 October 1885 – 18 November 1962) founded the Institute of Theoretical Physics where the greatest scientific minds of the era – including Einstein, Heisenberg and Schrödinger – pioneered work on atomic structure. Bohr claimed the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1922, before escaping Nazi persecution to Britain, and later joining Oppenheimer’s Manhattan Project in Los Alamos.

This tour offers you a different viewpoint to traditional European city breaks as you travel through the eyes of some of the world’s most recognised scientific thinkers for a new perspective on this European city you know and love.

You will be accompanied throughout by Manjit Kumar who has degrees in both physics and philosophy. Throughout the tour Manjit will offer a series of fascinating talks and walking subjects delving into a variety of science topics that will enrich your visit to this beautiful city. 

Visit iconic institutions and landmarks where Bohr formulated his theories on atomic structure and quantum theory (as seen in the Oscar-winning film Oppenheimer). His impact on the modern world is vast and will be explored throughout this tour. Enjoy a day trip to ancient Roskilde – now a centre for sustainable energy research.

This tour is ideal for science enthusiasts and curious travelers alike, and it uncovers the stories and locations that made Copenhagen a global hub of scientific progress.

In partnership with Kirker Holidays.


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