Science & Society
We summarize the week's scientific breakthroughs every Thursday.
- Earth
Expert eavesdroppers occasionally catch a break
Acting Editor in Chief Elizabeth Quill discusses the many ways we watch, listen and learn about science.
- Astronomy
‘Making Contact’ chronicles an astronomer’s struggle to find E.T.
For decades, astronomer Jill Tarter led the hunt for extraterrestrial intelligence, as detailed in a new biography.
- Chemistry
Radioactive substances leave electron ‘fingerprints’ behind
A new method of nuclear forensics could make it harder to handle radioactive material in secret.
- Science & Society
This history book offers excellent images but skimps on modern science
For an accessible account of mostly pre-20th century science, check out The Oxford Illustrated History of Science.
- Genetics
Resistance to CRISPR gene drives may arise easily
New tools for pest and disease control could become useless without improvements.
- Climate
Rising temps may mean fewer passengers on airplane flights
Global warming could force airplanes to carry a lighter load — and fewer passengers —on each flight.
- Climate
Rising temperatures may mean fewer passengers on airplane flights
Global warming could force airplanes to carry a lighter load — and fewer passengers —on each flight.
- Animals
Whales feast when hatcheries release salmon
Whales: “They’re 40 feet long and they’re feeding on fish that are the size of my finger.”
- Science & Society
Dive deep to discover unexpected connections
Readers often praise Science News for its brevity. But some ideas need more space, writes acting editor in chief Elizabeth Quill.
- Climate
Climate change could exacerbate economic inequalities in the U.S.
Counties across the United States won’t all pay the same price for climate change, a new simulation predicts.
- Science & Society
Latest stats are just a start in preventing gun injuries in kids
New stats on firearm deaths and injuries are disturbing, but the picture to make policy is far from complete, researchers say.
- Chemistry
Every breath you take contains a molecule of history
In 'Caesar’s Last Breath', best-selling author Sam Kean tells vivid stories about the gases we can’t see.
