News in Brief

  1. Planetary Science

    Mercury’s stunning landscape mapped

    First complete topographic map of Mercury reveals plains, craters and both the highest and lowest points on the planet.

    By Christopher Crockett
  2. Environment

    When measuring lead in water, check the temperature

    Lead contamination in drinking water can be much higher during summer than winter, new research suggests.

    By Thomas Sumner
  3. Environment

    U.S. oil and gas boom behind rising ethane levels

    Oil and gas operations on North Dakota’s Bakken shale are largely to blame for a recent rise in global emissions of the greenhouse gas ethane, researchers conclude.

    By Thomas Sumner
  4. Animals

    Male giant water bugs win females by babysitting

    Female giant water bugs prefer males already caring for eggs, an evolutionary force for maintaining parental care.