Briefings
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Music
Music is universal throughout humanity. Experienced and enjoyed across cultures and continents, it has played a vital role in the history of human society for thousands of years.
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Seaweed
Below the surface of the sea is a magical world of underwater forests. Home to millions of creatures, kelp forests are precious habitats. But how can they help life on dry land as well?
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Swallows
Millions of swallows have begun the dangerous journey north after spending their winter in Africa. These birds have fascinated humans for centuries. What can their epic flight teach us?
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Bitcoin
After 10 years of existence, the world’s most used digital currency seems to be more popular than ever. What is it about Bitcoin that makes it so attractive? And will its success last?
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Giants of the deep
Beautiful and dangerous, icebergs wander the ocean’s surface until they melt. These powerful mountains of ice can capsize huge boats. They can also support entire ecosystems.
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Smartphones
Built into every smartphone on Earth is a stunning collection of around 70 precious and rare metals. Why are these valuable elements in our devices – and is it worth recycling them?
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Missions to Mars
After seven months of travelling through space, three robot space probes from different countries are reaching Mars in the same month. What is each mission aiming to do on the red planet?
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Top taxpayers
A list has revealed the names of the 50 people in the UK who have paid the most tax. Many see it as an opportunity to celebrate good citizenship. But what are taxes? And how do they work?
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Fast fashion
Internet shopping sites like Asos make it easier than ever to buy clothes. But some are worried about the growing problem of fast fashion and the impact it has on the natural world.
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Kamala Harris
Last week, Kamala Harris became the first female, Black and South Asian vice president in the history of the United States. But how did she get this far? And what will her new job mean?
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Climate change
More than 100 countries have made a promise to reduce their carbon dioxide as part of the fight against global warming. But what are greenhouse gases? And why are they such a problem?
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A changing virus
The virus that causes Covid-19 was first identified over a year ago. Since then, it has changed thousands of times. But some of these changes make a bigger difference than others.
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The future of tech
How will technology change our lives next year? One thing is sure: the pace of progress will be faster because it is currently roughly doubling every year – bringing wonders in its wake.
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Life after Brexit
From 1 January, the UK will no longer be following EU rules as the next stage of Brexit will begin. But what exactly is Brexit? What changes will take place? And will it affect daily life?
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Advent calendars
December is here, which means we can finally crack open the doors on our advent calendars. But what exactly is Advent? And where did the tradition of Advent calendars come from?