Eric Potter explains what, how and why of hydraulic fracturing

A geologist presents the basics of hydraulic fracturing, or fracking, and explains why it's being used to obtain energy.

Paul Ehrlich and the vital role of women in this century

The author of The Population Bomb said that equal opportunities for women might be key to maintaining Earth’s population at a reasonable level.

Clearing your skin and killing germs with viruses

Strange as it sounds, some viruses are good for you.

Did you unwittingly name your baby after a hurricane?

Hey, it happens. Human choices aren’t always rational.

Solar storms can cause power grids to fail at lower latitudes

A solar storm caused a power failure in Quebec in 1989. Another solar flare apparently caused a power failure in New Zealand in 2001.

How to dispose of a dead body, legally

Not keen on being buried 6 feet under in a fancy casket? Don’t worry, you have plenty of options.

Listening to astronomy

It used to be you had to take classes, or be in the right place to hear a lecture on astronomy. Now there are many resources for hearing astronomy podcasts online.

In the future, airplanes might flock like birds

Toulouse-based aircraft company Airbus sees airplanes of the future flocking along express skyways to cut time and emissions.

Oops, caloric restriction may not increase lifespan

A new study suggests the benefits of extremely low calorie diets may not extend to primates.

Harold Huff develops meat-like soy chicken

Harold Huff develops a soy chicken product with something new - what food scientists call 'the right chew.'