50 Years Ago

  1. Tech

    50 years ago, a balloon circumnavigated the world for science

    A 1973 high-altitude flight kicked off an era of useful stratospheric balloon science. Some scientists worry that heightened concerns over alleged spy balloons might hamper that.

    By Carolyn Gramling
  2. Health & Medicine

    50 years ago, air pollution was linked to more reports of animal bites

    Scientists spent decades tying air pollution to health and behavior problems. Now, there’s more evidence that dirty air influences aggression in animals.

    By Aimee Cunningham
  3. Oceans

    50 years ago, researchers discovered a leak in Earth’s oceans

    An analysis of oceanic rocks hinted that ocean water drains into Earth’s mantle. How much makes it back into the ocean remains unclear.