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A new way of looking at space and time could let us dispense with dark matter. Plus: extreme heat may trigger the worst global financial crisis ever seen

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NASA, ESA, CSA

Defying gravity

A potential new theory of gravity that ruffles the fabric of the universe, allowing space and time to vary erratically, could solve some of the largest mysteries in physics and do away with the need for dark matter. Most cosmologists believe that a substance called dark matter makes up around 85 per cent of the matter in the universe, despite having never been seen directly. Instead, its presence has been inferred from unusual astronomical observations, such as galaxies spinning faster than they should according to Albert Einstein’s theory of gravity. Now, Jonathan Oppenheim at University College London and his colleagues say that their new conception of gravity can explain the faster-than-expected rotation of galaxies without dark matter. However, others say much more evidence is needed before this “post-quantum gravity” idea can be taken seriously. Read more.

Climate-caused financial crisis

Without dramatic action to curb greenhouse emissions, even high-latitude countries with cooler climates will suffer devastating financial losses as extreme heat disrupts global supply chains. This is because, thanks to globalisation, severe heatwaves in one part of the world can cause impacts in another. Annual losses could reach as much as $25 trillion by 2060 if we don’t curb emissions, dwarfing any previous financial crisis. Read more.

Celebrate pi day with these 7 mathematical facts that will blow your mind. Enjoy a selection of our favourite recent stories from the world of mathematics - available for today only.

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Airbus

Most of the discourse around climate change focuses on lots of people making relatively small behavioural changes, such as switching to electric vehicles or eating less meat. But some researchers want us to think bigger - much bigger - and consider epic megaprojects that could have a transformational effect in the fight against global heating. We investigate five of the most promising options, from a solar power station in space to protecting Antarctica's melting glaciers - and evaluate how much good they could do. Read more.

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Kate Ruane of the Center for Democracy & Technology, a non-profit organisation that advocates for digital rights in the US, isn’t keen on way US legislators have voted to ban TikTok unless it severs ties with China.

Thanks for reading and have a great Thursday.

Chris Simms

Assistant news editor, New Scientist

Email me at newsletter@newscientist.com

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