There’s something about summer that sends people’s spirits soaring, even on a Monday morning. Maybe it’s the weather (although we all know how unreliable that can be in the UK) or the prospect of a holiday around the corner, or the long warm evenings. Whatever, something about this season seems to give most people a lift.

Although, I have a confession to make – I really much prefer the other seasons. But I know I’m in a minority, so to better understand how our moods can change with the seasons, I approached Dan Baumgardt from the University of Bristol to get his perspective. It turns out there are many reasons why moods can plummet in the winter and soar in the summer – though the brain’s role is central to it all.

The first images from the Vera Rubin telescope have emerged – and they are nothing short of awe-inspiring. We take a look at the role UK researchers have played in the development of this telescope – one which heralds a new era of cosmic exploration.

And as our “Secrets of the Seas” series draws to a close, we explore what a 19th century atlas can teach us about marine ecosystems. You can also listen to senior environment editor Anna Turns talking about oysters in the final episode of her collaboration with the BBC.