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This week in science: T. rex footprints, solar 'superflares,' and benefits of reading

NPR | By Nathan Rott,
Regina G. Barber
Published September 17, 2026 at 4:41 PM CDT

Paleontologists have discovered the tracks of a giant — the fossilized footprints of T. rex. Plus, solar "superflares" and the brain benefits of reading in this week's Short Wave science news roundup.

Copyright 2026 NPR
Nathan Rott
Nathan (Nate) Rott is a correspondent on NPR’s Science Desk, where he reports on the natural world and humanity’s relationship to it.
See stories by Nathan Rott
Regina G. Barber
Regina G. Barber is a co-host of Short Wave.
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