In this issue

DISCOVERIES
The month’s biggest science news. Scientists identify why COVID-19 causes anosmia; reef manta rays make long-term use of protected areas; Andromeda Galaxy has humongous halo of gas; mantis shrimp claws could inspire super-tough materials.

REALITY CHECK
The science behind the headlines. This month: Is honey better than medicines at treating a cold? Is it likely that an asteroid will hit Earth? Can meditation and mindfulness actually worsen your mental health?

LIFE OF SLIME
Meet the brainless organisms that can think, solve problems and reveal the secrets of the Universe..

ASTEROIDS: HOW LIKELY IS IT THAT WE'LL BE STRUCK BY ONE?

It’s happened before, so what are the chances of another catastrophic collision with a space rock?

4 mins

A LIFE OF SLIME

Do you need a brain to solve puzzles? Not if you’re a slime mould. These single celled organisms can learn, navigate mazes and perhaps help us gain a deeper insight into the structure of the Universe itself…

5 mins

THE DIAGNOSIS DETECTIVES

Sometimes, doctors have to unleash their inner sleuths in order to solve tricky cases

2 mins

NEW WORLD ORDER

In 1993, the internet was brought to the masses, changing the online world forever. Now, COVID-19 will transform our virtual lives again

2 mins

THE STRESS TEST

WHAT IF MEASURING YOUR WELLBEING WAS AS SIMPLE AS TAKING YOUR TEMPERATURE? SCIENTISTS ARE TESTING OUT HEART RATE VARIABILITY, TO SEE WHAT IT CAN TELL US ABOUT OUR MENTAL HEALTH…

10 mins

The Psychology Of Resilience And How To Cultivate It

No matter what life throws at some people, they seem to roll with the punches and come through the other side stronger than ever. With many of us now experiencing bereavement, illness, job loss and insecurity, what can we learn from these resilient individuals and how can we be more like them?

10 mins

THE EXPLAINER WHY DO WE SLEEP?

Q&A:

3 mins

HOW TO MAKE THE PERFECT CUPPA

IN BRITAIN, WE DRINK AROUND 165 MILLION CUPS OF TEA A DAY, SO LET’S GET IT RIGHT. FOOD SCIENTIST DR STUART FARRIMOND REVEALS ALL…

3 mins

Read all stories from BBC Science Focus

BBC Science Focus Magazine Description:

BBC Focus Magazine is the magazine of popular science and technology that explains the wonders of the Universe through stunning photography and accessible articles. Contributors include the very best writers and science experts, with columns every issue from renowned science writer Robert Matthews, TV presenter and scientist Helen Czerski, and science fiction author Stephen Baxter. From archaeology to neuroscience, climate change and particle physics, BBC Focus Magazine keeps you up to speed with the cutting-edge science and gadgets that will change our world.