Bluesky Outperforms X in Science Post Engagement, Study Finds

What's Happening?

A recent analysis has revealed that Bluesky, a social media platform, is outperforming X, formerly known as Twitter, in terms of engagement with science-related posts. The study, conducted by researchers from the United Kingdom and China, examined 2.6 million posts on Bluesky from January 2023 to July 2025, referencing 532,000 academic articles. The findings, published as a preprint on arXiv, indicate that nearly half of the science posts on Bluesky received at least ten likes, and one-third were reposted ten or more times. In comparison, previous research on X showed significantly lower engagement rates, with only 4% to 7.5% of science posts receiving ten likes and 1.4% to 4.4% being reposted ten times. The study suggests that Bluesky users are more actively engaging with scientific content than users of X.

Why It's Important?

The shift in engagement from X to Bluesky among scientists and researchers highlights a potential change in the preferred platforms for academic discourse and dissemination. This trend could impact how scientific information is shared and discussed, potentially leading to more interactive and reflective communication within the scientific community. As Bluesky gains popularity, it may become a more influential platform for researchers to share their work, fostering a more collaborative environment. This could also affect the visibility and impact of scientific research, as higher engagement rates may lead to broader dissemination and discussion of scientific findings.

What's Next?

As Bluesky continues to attract scientists and researchers, it may further develop features that cater specifically to academic users, enhancing its role as a platform for scientific communication. The increased engagement could encourage more researchers to join Bluesky, potentially leading to a shift in the dynamics of online scientific discourse. Additionally, other social media platforms may need to adapt to this trend by improving their features to retain their academic user base. The ongoing competition between social media platforms for user engagement could drive innovation in how scientific content is shared and discussed online.

Beyond the Headlines

The preference for Bluesky over X among scientists may reflect broader concerns about platform ownership and management, particularly following X's acquisition by Elon Musk. This shift could signal a growing demand for platforms that prioritize user experience and community engagement over commercial interests. The implications of this trend extend beyond the scientific community, as it may influence how other professional groups choose their platforms for communication and collaboration.