Michael headed for landfall in Florida

The early morning update on Wednesday, October 10, shows Michael has strengthened more than expected to a Category 4 hurricane. The storm is due to make landfall on the north Florida coast today.

Microplastics found in sea turtle nesting sand

Researchers have found microplastics deep in the sand on beaches where sea turtles lay their eggs.

Baby giraffes inherit spot patterns from mom

A new study suggests spot patterns are linked to survival rates of young giraffes.

Arctic sea ice reaches 2018 minimum

On both September 19 and 23, Arctic sea ice dropped to its minimum extent of 1.77 million square miles (4.59 million square km). The 2018 minimum ties for the 6th-lowest in the satellite record.

Microbes catch a ride on fog

When fog rolls in, it can bring along communities of airborne microorganisms, says a new study. Moisture in fog allows microbes to last longer than they would in dry air.

What we’ve learned from 50 years of ocean drilling

We know more about the surface of the moon than about Earth’s ocean floor. But analysis of core samples from the deep seabed has given us insights into climate change, Earth’s history, and the key conditions for life.

Death toll surges over 800 in Indonesia earthquake

Links to stories and images of the 7.5-magnitude earthquake and subsequent tsunami in Indonesia on Friday. By Sunday morning, the death toll had gone over 800, with thousands waiting to be rescued.

Study untangles role of pollution, smoke on thunderclouds

Smoky air makes it harder for thunderclouds to grow. But pollution - if it's not too heavy - energizes their growth, according to a new study based on satellite data.

NASA balloon tracks electric blue clouds

A balloon mission flying over the North Pole captured 6 million images of these bright blue noctilucent clouds in their home in the upper atmosphere.

Pink lagoon provides clues to possible Mars life

This candy-pink lagoon in Spain is providing valuable clues about how extremophile microorganisms might exist on Mars despite the planet's harsh conditions.