New Scientist Australian Edition – 29 August 2026

Summary

New Scientist Australian Edition No 3610 (29 August 2026) shares the "Quantum theory finally makes sense" cover with the International Edition—proposing that removing irrational numbers from quantum mechanics could resolve its paradoxes—but adds no Australian-specific editorial content beyond the cover date change. The issue covers the antidepressant trap (p.36), the world's most dangerous algorithm (p.40), and a gamma-ray signal that may unlock dark matter's secrets (p.4).

Content is identical to the International Edition. No Australian-specific research, policy, or data was added to this edition.

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Content Guide

▸ Cover Story / Physics

p.30 · Poking holes in reality — What would happen if we removed irrational numbers from quantum mechanics?
Identical to the International Edition. The article explains rational approximations of Hilbert spaces and their implications for the measurement problem.

p.36 · The antidepressant trap — Withdrawal symptoms following long-term SSRI use appear far more serious than we thought
Same as International Edition.

p.40 · Most dangerous algorithm — The man trying to prove that quantum computers can work
Same as International Edition.

▸ Regulars

Same puzzles, Almost the last word, and Feedback as the International Edition.

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Editor's Take

This is a straight reprint of the International Edition with zero Australian-specific additions. That is disappointing for local subscribers, especially given that the quantum computing story (p.40) could easily have included a mention of the University of Sydney's quantum error-correction lab or the Australian government's 1-billion-dollar quantum investment. The International Edition's content is strong—the quantum cover and antidepressant feature are both excellent—but the Australian edition offers no reason to choose it over the original. Best for Australian subscribers who do not mind paying the same price for less content.

Strengths
• International Edition content is strong (quantum cover, antidepressant feature)
• No editorial errors introduced in reprint

Weaknesses
• Zero Australian-specific content
• Missed opportunity to connect the quantum computing story to local research

Verdict: Selective read — Identical to the International Edition; skip if you already read that one.