Read article: Quantum physicist David Deutsch bags Isaac Newton Medal and Prize
Deutsch’s work established quantum computation's fundamental idea, which is now known as the quantum bit, or “qubit”
Read article: NASA launches first-of-a-kind DART mission to deflect asteroid
The Double Asteroid Redirection Test craft aims to demonstrate how ‘kinetic impact’ can change an asteroid’s path in space
Read article: Learned societies propose ‘International Year of Quantum Science and Technology’ in 2025
Physicists advocate for a UNESCO International Year of Quantum Science and Technology to be held in 2025
Read article: Science takes centre stage at COP26
New commitments on climate innovation but climate summit outcome looks set to disappoint
Read article: Astro2020 Decadal Survey calls for ‘great observatory’ to succeed Hubble
Influential US Astro2020 panel recommends a space-based telescope operating from ultraviolet to near infra-red to be launched in the mid-2040s
Read article: Fusion industry predicts electricity generation by the 2030s
First report on the state of the fusion industry finds companies have accrued almost £2bn of investment in fusion energy
Read article: Major US and European labs join forces to tackle climate change
Top research centres announce they will co-ordinate climate-related research as well as share ways to reduce their carbon footprint
Read article: Early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic penalized women in academia
Despite a jump in article submissions at the start of the pandemic, most of those increases came from men, a study suggests
Read article: NASA’s Lucy mission launches to Jupiter’s Trojan asteroids
The $1bn craft will carry out several fly-bys to study these so-called ‘fossils’ of the solar system
Read article: UK announces potential sites for prototype fusion energy plant
Five sites have been shortlisted as a potential home for the Spherical Tokamak for Energy Production
