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Editors of EarthSky

Some types of nanoparticles negatively affect test heart

Researchers found that some commonly used nanoparticles negatively affected the heart rate, rhythm and ECG values of a test heart.

Astronomers find 96 new star clusters hidden in Milky Way dust

Astronomers found 96 new star clusters in our Milky Way - the first time so many have been found at once. Each spans light-years and contains 10-20 stars.

Crop-circle art created using physics?

A physicist suggests that crop-circle art might be done using GPS, lasers and microwaves to create intricate patterns on farmer's fields.

Did humans evolve bigger brains to see at dim latitudes?

Humans living farther from the equator evolved bigger brains. But it doesn't mean that they're smarter - they need bigger brains in order to see in low light.

Map of religious forests reveals biodiversity

Oxford scientists are mapping church-owned forests around the world, many sheltering endangered species. Learn more about these religious forests.

Swarms of humans likely overwhelmed Neanderthals

Cambridge researchers give evidence of modern humans migrating out of Africa with 10 times the population of Neanderthals in central and western Europe.

Insect-like flying machines for surveillance

Scientists are developing tiny aerial vehicles with innovative flapping wings based on those of natural insects. Read more about flying machines.

A Trojan asteroid for Earth?

Astronomers have discovered the first known Trojan asteroid orbiting the sun along with Earth.

After 10,000 year absence, wildfires have returned to Arctic tundra

The huge stock of carbon contained in tundra could increase atmospheric CO2 drastically, when released by a fire. Read more about wildfires.

Aging brains are different in humans and chimps

Evolution of human longevity led to both a large brain and brain shrinkage, compared to chimpanzees, say researchers. Read more on aging brains.