All Science
- Peggy Whitson logs more space hours than any other US astronaut: A history of women and NASA
On Monday, Peggy Whitson had been in space for a cumulative 534 days, setting a new record and inspiring future female STEM professionals across the United States.
- Tornado watchers are missing more storms, giving shorter notice – and saving more lives?
Sociological research and deadly twisters have spurred a shift in forecasting practices.
- Could this rather esurient caterpillar help stem the plastic deluge?
European researchers have discovered a species of caterpillar capable of eating a common form of plastic. What lessons can nature teach us about cleaning up the nearly indestructible pollutant?
- Why predicting the future is more than just horseplay
The science of prediction lies at the heart of the modern world, but attempts to forecast even the most straightforward systems often confound scientists, while complex systems sometimes reveal themselves to surprisingly predictable.
- Breakthroughs arise from a precise mix of old and new knowledge, say scientists
Analysis of millions of studies and patents found that the most influential science draws a clear line to the work of previous generations of scientists, a pattern that was 'nearly universal in all branches of science and technology.'
- March for Science: Can science and political activism coexist?
Many scientists say they feel compelled to march in the name of science. But for others, the foray into activism runs the risk of worsening the polarization the march is meant to ease.
- New report finds cleaner air for many, but not all
The American Lung Association, which tracks air quality in the United States, says the Clean Air Act is working.
- Why NASA is expanding its 'Veggie' space program
NASA's Advanced Plant Habitat, which just reached the International Space Station, will allow scientists to grow more edible plants in space than ever before – and provide valuable insight into how terrestrial vegetables react to an alien environment.
- First-responder ants suggest helping may be widespread in nature
A species of African ant has been observed carrying their injured comrades back to the nest so that they may recover, another example of behavior once thought unique to humans.
- Enceladus ocean jets spew hydrogen: Hint of life?
NASA's discovery of molecular hydrogen on one of Saturn's moons is encouraging scientists to rethink their understanding of where else in our solar system could support life.
- Beyond the Blue Marble: How NASA Earth science informs planetary research
President Trump has said he wants NASA to refocus its energies beyond our home planet. But even planetary scientists have expressed concerns about scaling back Mission to Planet Earth.
- First LookWhat makes a knot strong? Scientists have figured out how your shoelaces untie themselves.
Shoelaces have been around for thousands of years, but they are understood relatively poorly by scientists. A new study hopes to shed some light on how the dynamic forces of running cause knots to spontaneously unravel.
- Want to encourage cooperation? Try exchanging names.
Researchers have found that reducing anonymity in a classic social experiment promotes cooperation between participants – suggesting that even small steps toward getting to know one another could bring big benefits.
- Graphene oxide: A better membrane, but no 'silver bullet' for desalination
A new membrane marks a step forward for desalination technology. But it still faces a challenging road to the world’s seawater treatment plants, suggesting that the search for solutions to humanity’s thirst is far from over.
- First LookScientists are trying to snap the first-ever photo of a black hole. How will they do it?
Scientists have created virtual 'Earth-sized' telescope with the capability of capturing an image of the event horizon of Sagittarius A*, the black hole at the center of the Milky Way.
- Why isn’t everything powered by solar yet?
If you thought free market forces would take over when solar energy became cheaper than coal, think again.
- First LookLost in space: Astronauts lose grip on key shield component
A piece of shielding was lost, but Mission Control worked with two veteran astronauts to save the day.
- First LookManatees get 'downlisted' from 'endangered' to 'threatened.' Why are environmentalists angry?
By focusing on the manatees’ growing numbers, the feds may have overlooked significant threats to the species' future health.
- First LookSpaceX makes history twice in one evening
The 15-year-old company launched a recycled rocket into space, then recovered it, taking a giant leap toward making spaceflight more like aviation.
- First LookWhy tonight's launch of the SpaceX Falcon 9 will be historic
SpaceX is pioneering a 'reduce, reuse, recycle' approach to space with the second launch of a used Falcon 9.