Posts by EarthSky

The Origin of Photosynthesis Revealed

Genome analysis of “living fossil” sheds light on the evolution of plants

Image Credit: U.S. Air Force
Feb 21, 2012 Space 1 Comment

Rocket launched into the aurora borealis

On February 18, 2012, a research team launched a rocket into the heart of the aurora borealis, or northern lights, to investigate ‘space weather.’

10feb04_430
Feb 20, 2012 Tonight 13 Comments

Blue-white Rigel is at the foot of Orion

Look for the bright star Rigel below Orion’s Belt stars. If this star were as close as our sun, it would outshine the sun by 40,000 times!

Rainforest plant combats multi-resistant bacterial strains

Aggressive infections in hospitals are an increasing health problem worldwide. The development of bacterial resistance is alarming. Now a young Danish scientist has found a natural substance in a Chilean rainforest plant that effectively supports the effect of traditional treatment with antibiotics.

Photo credit: Lara604
Feb 20, 2012 Health 2 Comments

Cranky today? Even mild dehydration can alter our moods

Even mild dehydration can alter a person’s mood, energy level, and ability to think clearly, according to two recent studies.

10feb03_430
Feb 19, 2012 Tonight 7 Comments

Somber red Betelgeuse shines in the shoulder of Orion

Betelgeuse is a rare supergiant star. There might be only one red supergiant star like Betelgeuse for every million stars in our Milky Way galaxy.

Arctic Tern in flight via Wikimedia Commons
Feb 18, 2012 Biodiversity 7 Comments

Which bird migrates the farthest?

Over its lifetime of about 25 years, an Arctic Tern can fly a million kilometers – nearly three times the distance from the Earth to the moon.

Image via Mike's Birding Blog

Why do birds collide with windows?

Birds’ eyes are well adapted for flying, but some of their adaptations cause trouble when birds encounter plate glass windows.

Northern cardinal. Milton, FL.  Photo credit: Christopher King
Feb 18, 2012 Biodiversity 2 Comments

Best backyard bird pics from EarthSky Facebook friends

As the 2012 Backyard Backyard Bird Count continues, some great bird pics from EarthSky Facebook friends.