Creating large-scale, regular arrays of nanoscale components is now almost as easy as blowing bubbles. (p. 356)

The pigment melanin may enable certain fungi to convert dangerous radiation into usable energy. (p. 325)

Solvents in nanoscale droplets can be used to clean centuries-old frescoes, saving them from the unintended consequences of previous restorations. (p. 310)

Light can be made to act as if it's composed of particles, waves, or something in between. (p. 292)

Physicists have found a way to almost double measurement precision when using photons to gauge distances. (p. 276)

A French team has created the first mini-origami figures that fold themselves around droplets of water. (p. 270)

Our solar system's periodic motion from one side of the galaxy to the other could expose life on Earth to massive amounts of cosmic rays and cause recurring, catastrophic mass extinctions. (p. 244)