How to find aliens: Look when their planets are aligned

A new study proposes a novel idea for how to find aliens: Look for their deep space communications when their planets are in alignment, as seen from Earth.

Starship redeems itself in spectacular 10th test flight

After a series of explosive failures this year, SpaceX’s Starship saw spectacular success during its 10th flight test on August 26, 2025.

Neanderthals and modern humans interbred 140,000 years ago

The fossil remains of a child, dated to 140,000 years ago, shows the earliest known evidence of breeding between Neanderthals and modern humans.

Human evolution complexity revealed in new African fossils

Scientists are learning more about human evolution after discovering a new species of Australopithecus that lived contemporaneously with ancient humans.

Did alcohol and evolution go hand in hand for humanity?

Alcohol and evolution: Eating alcohol-laden fruit might have helped early hominids socialize. Later, did making alcohol drive the rise of agriculture?

Why do we sleep? Study blames overloaded brain cells

Why do we sleep? University of Oxford researchers may have cracked the mystery: an electrical buildup within cellular components.

August birthstone: Peridot, spinel, or sardonyx

The August birthstone can be crystalline green peridot, colorful spinel, or banded sardonyx. Take your pick of these colorful gemstones, August babies!

UFOs in Canada? Official new report

The Chief Science Advisor of Canada has released a new report about UFOs in Canada. It provides guidelines to standardize UAP reports for government agencies.

Are dogs a good judge of character? New study says maybe not

Many people think their dogs are good judges of a person’s character, but new research indicates there is no evidence that dogs form opinions of people.

What are hole-punch clouds, aka fallstreak holes?

Have you ever seen a fallstreak hole or hole-punch clouds? They're a type of cloud with a flat layer interrupted by a big hole, often with wisps at the center.

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.