There’s been a royal shake-up in the world of space science — and it’s made history. Plus, a brand-new satellite is keeping watch over our planet, and we might have more wasps buzzing around this summer than usual. From the royal observatory to the bottom of your picnic glass, here’s what’s been making headlines in the world of science this week.
👑 The UK has a new space boss!
Professor Michele Dougherty has just been appointed Astronomer Royal — and she’s the first woman to have the role in its 350-year history. Her job? Advising King Charles III on space news. She’s also helping send probes to the moons of Jupiter. Michelle says she wants more girls and women to study science — brilliant!
🛰 Satellites watching Earth
NASA (USA) and ISRO (India) have launched a satellite that can spot even tiny changes in Earth’s land and sea. This will help scientists plan for disasters and protect our planet. It launched from South India — proof that countries can work together when it comes to science.
🐝 Here come the wasps…
Experts are warning we could have a wasp-filled summer in the UK. John Horsley from the British Pest Control Association says warm, dry springs help wasps survive.
- Early in the year, they eat insects.
- From July, they go after sweet food and drinks (including yours!).
Top tip: Keep food covered and drinks in bottles with lids.
Want to know more about space? Join the kids at Deep Space High
And also listen to Fun Kids Science Weekly for more science news every week! Here’s this week’s episode talking about the stories.