Telescopes and space missions Research update Earthshine sheds light on extrasolar planets Reflected sunlight could help astronomers interpret the spectra of distant planets
Surfaces and interfaces Research update Entanglement passes screen test Physicists reveal the quantum nature of surface excitations for the first time
Ultrafast science Research update Small systems defy second law Physicists overthrow one of the laws of thermodynamics – but only briefly
Education and outreach Research update UK science nets extra cash 2002 spending review brings the science budget for 2005/2006 to £2.9bn
Semiconductors and electronics Research update Silicon atoms play a bit part Physicists create a memory based on the presence or absence of a silicon atom
Structure and dynamics Research update X-ray beams thin out Analytical techniques could benefit from the narrowest-ever beams of X-rays
Stars and solar physics Research update Diamond-free space dust puzzles astronomers Primitive meteorites cast doubt on theories of the early solar system
Superconductivity Research update Electron pairs behave like bosons The classic Hanbury Brown-Twiss experiment turns to superconductors
Read article: Young stars challenge old ideas Stars and solar physics Research update Young stars challenge old ideas Astronomers find surprise signs of recent star formation in old galaxies
Semiconductors and electronics Research update Crystalline silicon shapes up Materials breakthrough could lead to cheaper silicon devices