# Fascinating Scientific Discoveries You Might Have Missed Intriguing findings from history and the universe - **Source:** [Ars Technica - All content](https://brifing.si/source/b728770c-8dda-457a-8986-84879c9fc42c) - **Published:** 2026-08-03 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/09799080-471d-4d54-8474-28b7c6b9fd7a ## Cockroaches That Can Navigate Underwater Scientists have developed cyborg cockroaches capable of moving underwater. These insects could be used in search and rescue operations during flood disasters. Equipped with tiny diving suits, the roaches can move through water and are fitted with sensors. This technology may provide access to areas in disaster zones that humans cannot reach. ## The True Cause of a Medici Duke's Death New research reveals that a duke from the Medici family died of malaria, not poisoning as previously believed. Historians long thought the duke was poisoned by political rivals. However, bone analysis showed the presence of malaria parasites. This finding offers fresh perspective on Renaissance Italy's political history. ## Betelgeuse's Mysterious Companion Astronomers have found the strongest evidence yet that the star Betelgeuse might have a companion in its orbit. This discovery will help us understand the giant star's behavior and its future transformation into a supernova. Observations suggest fluctuations in the star's brightness might result from interaction with another celestial body. ## Ancient Egyptian Princesses Were Skilled Archers New archaeological evidence shows some Ancient Egyptian princesses were talented archers. Tomb paintings and weapon analysis indicate royal women received military training. This discovery may change common perceptions about women's social status in Ancient Egypt. The princesses' combat skills provide insight into the period's political power dynamics. ## Revealing the Truth About Inca Sacrificial Rituals New information has emerged about the Inca's Capachoca human sacrifice rituals. Reanalysis of a sacrificed child's remains showed the child died from blunt force trauma, not freezing as previously thought. This discovery contributes to our understanding of Inca religion and sacrificial practices. Victims were offered to mountains and believed to become divine intermediaries. ## The Importance of Scientific Discoveries Such scientific discoveries deepen our understanding of human history and the universe's workings. Each finding opens new windows into past civilizations' lifestyles and belief systems. They also contribute to the development of modern technology. Innovative ideas like cyborg insects may inspire future engineering solutions. ## Modern Archaeological Analysis Methods Contemporary science offers new techniques for analyzing artifacts and remains. DNA analysis, bone examination and chemical testing provide more accurate historical conclusions. For example, determining the Medici duke's cause of death demonstrates these methods' importance in historical research. Scientific techniques can confirm or disprove historical assumptions. ## Future Research Directions These discoveries open doors to new research areas in science. Finding Betelgeuse's possible companion star may lead to new astronomical observation projects. Similarly, evidence of female warriors in Ancient Egypt could redirect archaeological excavations. Scientific curiosity continuously expands humanity's knowledge base. ## Sources covering this story - https://arstechnica.com/science/2026/08/research-roundup-6-cool-science-stories-we-almost-missed-5/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._