From gigantic dinosaur footprints frozen in stone to a spectacular parade of planets, science in 2025 delivered moments of real awe. This year, we revisited turning points in human history, from the earliest evidence of fire-making to fresh insights into how humans form lasting bonds. The natural world continued to surprise us too, with wild chimpanzees filmed using plants as medicine, while Moon dust described by scientists as rarer than gold arrived in the UK for study.
However, not every story brought good news. A giant iceberg drifting towards a remote island threatened wildlife, reminding us that science is just as vital for spotting danger as it is for making discoveries. This article delves into these remarkable stories that captured our imagination and challenged our understanding of the world.
Prehistoric Giants: Dinosaur Footprints in Oxfordshire
A quarry in Oxfordshire revealed one of the world’s largest-ever dinosaur trackway sites, with around 200 enormous footprints left behind 166 million years ago. These tracks capture the movements of two very different dinosaurs: a long-necked sauropod thought to be a Cetiosaurus and the two-legged carnivore Megalosaurus. Some of the trackways stretch for up to 150 meters, and researchers believe they could extend even further, as only part of the quarry has been excavated.
“The discovery of these footprints provides a unique window into the past, allowing scientists to study the behavior and movement of these ancient creatures,” said Dr. Emily Roberts, a paleontologist involved in the excavation.
This discovery not only adds to our understanding of dinosaur behavior but also highlights the importance of preserving such sites for future research and education.
Fire: A Defining Moment in Human Evolution
At an archaeological site in Barnham, Suffolk, researchers uncovered remarkable evidence of the earliest known human-made fire, dating back around 400,000 years. This discovery pushes the origins of fire-making back by more than 350,000 years and marks a defining moment in human evolution.
The ability to create fire transformed daily life, providing warmth, enabling food to be cooked, and supporting brain growth, freeing early humans to think, plan, and innovate. This pivotal development is considered one of the key factors that set humans apart from other species.
“Fire was a game-changer for early humans, fundamentally altering their lifestyle and survival strategies,” explained Dr. James Carter, an anthropologist specializing in early human history.
The Science of Love: Human Bonds in Perspective
We humans might think of ourselves as romantically unique, but research comparing pairing behavior across species suggests otherwise. With around 66% of humans forming monogamous bonds, we outscore chimps and gorillas but fall short of the Californian mouse, the true heavyweight champion of lifelong love.
The study shows that while humans are far from the most monogamous creatures, our tendency to pair up for life is still remarkable compared with many other species. This research offers new insights into the evolutionary advantages of monogamy and its impact on human society.
“Understanding the science behind human relationships can help us appreciate the complex nature of love and partnership,” noted Dr. Sarah Lee, a biologist who led the study.
Chimpanzees: Nature’s Pharmacists
In Uganda, wild chimpanzees have been filmed using plants to treat open wounds and other injuries. Researchers from the University of Oxford, working alongside a local team, observed the animals applying plant material to their own injuries and, in some cases, to those of other chimpanzees.
The findings, built on decades of observations, add to growing evidence that our closest relatives have a surprising knowledge of natural remedies. This behavior not only highlights the intelligence of chimpanzees but also raises questions about the origins of medicine in human history.
“The use of plants for medicinal purposes by chimpanzees suggests that the roots of pharmacology may be deeper than we previously thought,” commented Dr. Laura Bennett, a primatologist who participated in the study.
As we reflect on these stories from 2025, it becomes clear that science continues to expand our horizons, offering new perspectives on the past, present, and future. These discoveries remind us of the endless curiosity that drives scientific inquiry and the profound impact it has on our understanding of the world.
