In this 8 minute podcast, atmospheric scientist llan Koren talks about how smoke over the Amazon affects not only the immediate forest, but also global climate because of its dramatic impact on Earth’s clouds.

Plans on paper and realities in Antarctica have proven to be two different things. And we use data, data, data.

It’s a hopeful sign as we enter 2009: Coral reefs damaged by the 2004 tsunami are recovering suprisingly quickly.

Moving into position: We prepare to move 796 miles west of McMurdo to Dome A, the highest point of the E. Antarctic Ice Sheet. Read more here.

Marine scientist Martin Riddle led a voyage to probe the seabed of the Southern Ocean near Antarctica. Hear about the astounding creatures he saw there.

Whales are mammals, and their ancient ancestors are thought to have lived on land. So did whales ever have legs? Read more about it here.

From McMurdo Station, this is the 4th post in Robin Bell's description of science in Antarctica in late 2008 and early 2009. Read more about it here.

Neil Sampson, president of a company that consults on forests and climate, said that private forest owners play an essential role in keeping wooded land growing and healthy.... and Americans who don't own wooded land still reap the benefits of forests.

Geologist Jean-Philippe Avouac talks about using satellite imagery to study earthquakes in this 8-minute podcast.

Reading about the polar expedition and coming face to face with it are two very different things. Read more on walking in Robert Scott's memories.