2024’s Most Bizarre Science Stories
Science often deals with serious topics – important medical research, new technologies and the mysteries of the universe. But occasionally, we come across stories that are just so odd, fascinating or downright bizarre that they deserve to be shared for the sheer joy of it. In 2024, science didn’t disappoint when it came to weirdness, with discoveries and innovations that stretched our imagination and raised more than a few eyebrows.
From the surprising health benefits of horse milk ice cream to the discovery of microplastics in human tissue, this year’s most unusual scientific stories have proven that science isn’t just about the big ideas. Science is also about the strange, unexpected moments that make us pause and think, “how did we get here?”
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Subscribe for FREEScientists spin silk from artificial spider gland
Researchers in Japan have developed a microfluidic device that mimics the natural process of spider silk production, creating an artificial silk with similar strength and structure – potentially advancing industries like biomedical engineering and textiles.
Man who received 217 COVID-19 vaccines has a functioning immune system
A 62-year-old man from Magdeburg, Germany, received 217 vaccines over 29 months to test the limits of vaccination. Despite the unusual number of doses, the research revealed no signs of immune system damage.
Female whales that experience menopause live 40 years longer
Female toothed whales, including orcas and belugas, live up to 40 years longer than their non-menopausal counterparts – supporting the "live-long hypothesis," which suggests menopause evolved to extend life beyond reproductive years, allowing older females to assist with caring for grandchildren.
Microplastics detected in human penis for the first time
Researchers have detected microplastics in human penile tissue, sparking concerns about the effects of environmental pollutants on reproductive health.
Ice cream made from horse’s milk may be better for your gut than the regular dessert
A study suggests that ice cream made from mare's milk, which is rich in probiotic bacteria, could be healthier for digestion than traditional ice cream made from cow’s milk.
Novel technique makes transparent skin possible for deeper imaging
Researchers developed a method using a food dye to make living tissue transparent, enabling clearer, deeper imaging for medical diagnostics and biological research.
