What’s Wrong with Planet Earth?
According to one critic, the BBC documentary inspired more appreciation for HD television than it did for engaged environmentalism.
Seeing Black Holes
Two of the scientists on the huge team that eventually captured the world's first image of a black hole discuss the particular challenges of the task.
Exploring Lake Baikal
The world's largest, deepest freshwater lake is home to hundreds of species that don't live anywhere else on Earth. But it's threatened by climate change.
The 4 Questions to Ask before You Unplug
If you're concerned about the internet's effects on the world and on yourself, unplugging might not be the answer.
The Dramatic Waves That Sink Ships
Rogue waves are becoming larger and more dangerous. But even long-term studies have not made these waves any easier to predict or avoid.
Why Is It So Much Hotter in the City?
On a sunny day, a city can be several degrees warmer than the surrounding countryside. Could better building materials make cities absorb less heat?
Salamanders Crossing: This Way to the Vernal Pool!
They may look like random puddles, but some states are building million-dollar tunnels to direct wildlife to these seasonal refuges.
How Women Helped to Develop the First Spacesuit
NASA recently cancelled an all-female spacewalk, citing a lack of spacesuits. Ironically, women played a key role in creating the very first spacesuits.
What Is a Quantum Computer?
Researchers claim to have turned back time inside a quantum computer. Meanwhile, most of us are still trying to wrap our minds around what that even means.
How Medical Researchers Used to Party
There’s always been some fuzziness in our distinctions between medicine and recreational drugs. Just look at nitrous oxide.