Aqua satellite data improves weather forecasts and models

Ron Gelaro leads NASA’s efforts to predict weather, across the globe, using computer simulations.

Gulf of Mexico report: Year 2, Day 54

Ocean Alliance research vessel Odyssey - offshore in the Gulf of Mexico in summer 2011 - reports on its work studying effects of the Gulf oil spill.

Crops with deeper roots and rising CO2

A new study published in the Annals of Botany proposes that breeding crops with deeper roots would help combat rising carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere.

Heat-seeking vampire bats hone in on blood

UCSF researchers discover heat-detecting molecules on the nose nerve endings of vampire bats, similar to those that enable a human tongue to detect spicy food.

More heat extremes across the United States in 2011

It's been hot. And it's still hot. Read more about heat extremes across the Unites States in 2011, including Tropical Storm Emily.

Krakatoa target of Earth Observing-1 satellite

The Earth Observing-1 satellite passes over Anak Krakatau - Krakatoa - and snaps a revealing shot of the growing volcano. Read more.

Gerry Bell: Expect active Atlantic hurricane season in 2011

This week, NOAA updated its outlook for 2011 Atlantic hurricanes. The new outlook anticipates even more hurricanes. Read more from Gerry Bell.

African crested rat picks its poison

Scientists discover how a harmless-looking rodent turns its own fur into a biological weapon.

Desalination: Reasons for and against

Water expert Heather Cooley spoke with EarthSky about promises and problems of desalination in California.

In urban fox families, mother knows best

Mothers wear the trousers in urban fox families: They decide which cubs get to stay in the group and which ones have to leave, and dads have no say in the matter, a recent study has found.