Why do we need a leap year? And happy February 29!

Every 4 years is a leap year. So 2024 has a leap day, February 29. But why? Julius Caesar presented a solar calendar to keep the seasons in line.

How astronauts to Mars can manage stress on the long journey

Astronauts headed to Mars will live and work in confinement for more than two years. Here are ways to manage these stressful conditions.

Underground nuclear tests now 99% detectable

New science is now able to detect 99% of underground nuclear tests, which will help keep tests from being conducted in secret.

Why is the 2024 Lunar New Year so late? Blame the moon

The reason the 2024 Lunar New Year falls so late is the date of new moon and how it aligns with spring in the Chinese calendar.

The April 8 eclipse is part of Saros 139. What does that mean?

Enjoy the April 8 eclipse as you witness the 30th of 71 member eclipses in the illustrious procession known as Saros 139. Learn more here.

NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory to cut 8% of workforce this week

NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory - for decades a leader in robotic exploration of the planets in our solar system - will cut 8% of its workforce this week.

Can beavers revitalize California’s mountains and meadows?

Officials in California are relocating beavers (Castor canadensis) to help improve the state's mountain environment and waterways.

The strange story of the grave of Copernicus

Nicholas Copernicus was the astronomer who, five centuries ago, explained that Earth revolves around the sun, rather than vice versa. A true Renaissance man.

Why pee is yellow and how that keeps us healthy

A recent study revealed that bilirubin reductase is why pee is yellow. Learn more about the discovery and why yellow can be a sign of good health.

When does Friday the 13th have a full moon? Next one is 2049

Want to see some dates when a Friday the 13th and a full moon fall on the same day? Here are past and future Friday the 13ths with full moons.