What are rare earth elements?

Most of us use rare earth elements every day – without knowing it. These little-known and fascinating elements make modern electronics possible.

We’re guinea pigs in global microplastic experiment

Microplastics are everywhere - in our water, soil, and even the air we breathe. The consequences of this exposure on human health is unknown.

We promise you won’t be eaten by a megalodon

So go ahead and get scared at the new movie "The Meg," but don't worry. Scientists have officially debunked the myth that megalodon sharks still exist.

Carbon monoxide from California wildfires drifts east

What happens in California doesn't stay in California. This animation, made from satellite data, shows carbon monoxide from the state's massive wildfires drifting eastward all the way across the U.S.

What’s causing Florida’s algae crisis? 5 questions answered

Red tides and a blue-green algae outbreak are fouling hundreds of miles of coast, killing fish and driving tourists from beaches. Some causes are natural, but human actions also play a role.

Want to trick your ears?

You’ll enjoy this video of audio illusions from the guys at AsapSCIENCE. Can you understand the talking piano?

A spacecraft to touch the sun

Launch of the daredevil Parker Solar Probe - which will get closer to the sun than any spacecraft in human history - has been delayed until Sunday, August 12.

How NASA will shield solar probe from crazy heat

The Parker Solar Probe, expected to launch Saturday, will get closer to the sun than any spacecraft in human history. How will the spacecraft withstand the heat?

Prehistoric mass graves linked to tsunamis

“We were able to make a strong case for many of these sites being related to major tsunamis, as opposed to more standard explanations like warfare or an epidemic."

2017 was 3rd warmest year on record, says international report

According to the annual State of the Climate report, 2017 was the globe's 3rd-warmest year on record, behind 2016 (1st) and 2015. Earth also experienced record-high greenhouse gas concentrations and rises in sea level.

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