Great Barrier Reef is dying

Authors of a cover story in journal Nature this week called for immediate global action to reduce the magnitude of climate warming in order to secure a future for coral reefs.

Real-life Hoth is disappearing

Hardangerjøkulen, the Norwegian ice cap better known to Star Wars fans as the ice planet Hoth, is melting and may disappear by 2100.

Most US wildfires ignited by people

A study reports that 84% of U.S. wildfires between 1992 and 2012 were started by things like discarded cigarettes, unattended campfires, and arson.

Why pandas are black and white

The giant panda’s distinct black-and-white markings have two functions: camouflage and communication, says a new study.

GOES-16’s 1st flashy images

Detecting and predicting severe weather just got easier, scientists announced, with the 1st images from a new Lightning Mapper onboard NOAA’s new GOES-16 satellite.

Beautiful video: Dolphin stampede

Truly one of the most wonderful videos we've seen. If you watch, you'll see thousands of dolphins, plus a whale calf snuggling with its mom.

California sediments pour into the sea

Drought plagued California and much of the American Southwest for nearly 5 years before this year. Now satellites see swollen rivers dumping sediments into the sea.

World’s oldest microfossils in Canada

A new discovery provides direct evidence of one of Earth's oldest life forms, in a place known to harbor some of Earth's oldest rocks.

Galapagos tortoise back from the brink

Galapagos giant tortoises, once on the brink of extinction, have made a comeback.

Storm chasers honor Bill Paxton

An amazing several-state tribute - stretching across Tornado Alley - honoring Twister star Bill Paxton, who died Sunday due to complications from heart surgery.

2026 Donation Campaign

If EarthSky has ever helped you discover something new, prepare for an eclipse, spot a planet, or simply inspired a moment of wonder, today is the perfect day to give back. Your donation helps keep trusted science news, expert night sky guides, and independent science journalism free for everyone.

Please help keep EarthSky going by donating today!

Please help keep

EarthSky going!

If you've already donated, we apologize for the popup and greatly appreciate your support.