Did Ice Age hunters burn Europe’s forests?

Large-scale forest fires started by prehistoric hunter-gatherers are probably the reason Europe is not more densely forested, says a new study.

Twice as many bird species as before?

Bird watchers, prepare to update your checklists. Ornithologists are pondering a new way of defining bird species. If the new thinking is accepted globally, the number of known bird species would double.

Rare glimpse of feathered dinosaur tail

Noticed at an amber market in Myanmar, an amber specimen is now said to hold one of the best, most beautiful and most useful examples of dinosaur feathers.

New Zealand quake reveals new land

The 7.8-magnitude earthquake off the coast of New Zealand's South Island on November 13 created a thin swath of newly exposed land. Before and after images.

Arctic sea ice at record low

So far this year, the Arctic Ocean and neighboring seas have been slow to freeze, setting a record low for the floating cap of sea ice in November.

Gravity waves over China

Gravity waves traveling upwards from the lower atmosphere caused this unusual banded structure in airglow above China in late November.

What’s the hottest Earth has ever been?

Earth’s hottest periods occurred before humans existed. Those ancient climates would have been like nothing our species has ever seen.

Hurricane risk to US northeast coast

Due to shifting weather patterns, the northeastern coast of the United Sates could see more frequent and more powerful hurricanes in the future, says new research.

2016-17 winter outlook for US

NOAA's outlook for this winter predicts a warmer, drier South, and cooler, wetter North. Drought is expected to persist in California and expand in the Southeast.

Night-shining clouds over Antarctica

The AIM spacecraft has spotted noctilucent clouds - aka night-shining clouds - above Earth's southernmost continent. The season for them started early this year!

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.