This is today's edition of The Download, our weekday newsletter that provides a daily dose of what's going on in the world of technology.
Pig Kidneys Frozen for a Year Have Been Brought Back to Life
Scientists have successfully rewarmed pig kidneys that were cooled to -150 °C and stored in a freezer for months, demonstrating for the first time that the organs can function again after such preservation.
The kidneys, which are similar in size to human ones, were kept in a glass-like state—in one case for over a year. After rewarming, testing in machines, and transplantation into pigs, the organs regained their color and began producing urine, key indicators that they were working.
The results mark a major milestone. However, the team still needs to determine whether the approach could work for humans.
Dissect what the breakthrough means for organ transplantation.
—Jessica Hamzelou
How Much More Can Nuclear Power Plants Give?
As global energy demands rise in 2026, nuclear power is being scrutinized for its potential to contribute more to the grid. Operators are exploring uprates—increasing the power output of existing reactors—to maximize efficiency without building new plants. This approach could add significant capacity, but it comes with technical and regulatory challenges. The push aligns with a broader renewed interest in nuclear energy as a stable, low-carbon source.
Meanwhile, Ukraine says sudden Starlink speed limits disrupted key drone missions, highlighting the geopolitical implications of satellite internet constraints.
Stay tuned for more daily tech news.