All Stories
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Materials ScienceErasing wrinkles, the physicists’ way
Researchers study how folds and other creases disappear.
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Food for Mars
Astronauts may have to survive in orbit for months dining on a really limited menu of processed foods and reconstituted beverages served from oh-so-glamorous plastic pouches. Luckily, even the International Space Station can restock its pantry several times a year because these foods are relatively perishable. Which explains the problem NASA faces in planning for really long missions — like a trip to Mars.
By Janet Raloff -
EarthResearchers create global map of tree height
A new map shows forest height around the globe and will improve estimates of how much carbon is stored in trees.
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Particle PhysicsNew data suggest a lighter Higgs
Fermilab results heat up the race for an elusive particle.
By Ron Cowen -
Health & Medicine‘Housekeeping’ proteins may set aging limit
Aging cells may seal their fate by keeping worn-out proteins when they sprout offspring.
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AstronomyHeftiest stars discovered
At more than 200 times sun’s mass, this giant sets a new record.
By Ron Cowen -
MathSwarming locusts impossible to predict
A mathematical analysis shows that random factors underlie the insects’ movements across the landscape.
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PlantsExplosions, mushroom clouds — all good for short moss
BLOG: Sphagnum reproduces with a bang that compensates for life so close to the ground.
By Susan Milius -
EcosystemsFrogs leapt before they landed
Jumping preceded mastery of the touchdown in amphibian evolution, a new study suggests.
By Sid Perkins -
Among stars, heavyweight champ
Stellar record-holder weighs in at 265 times mass of sun.
By Ron Cowen -
PaleontologyOldest dog debated
A fossil jaw may, or may not, come from the oldest known example of man’s best friend.
By Bruce Bower