Where Not to Look for Alien Life
Scientists are learning that some galactic neighborhoods are better at forming planets than others.
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Getty Civilization Owes Its Existence to the Moon
Our silver satellite inspired religion, gave rise to science, and made us human.
Photo-illustration by Matteo Giuseppe Pani. Source: Getty. The Dark Side of Light
Beneath the surface of one of Germany’s deepest lakes, researchers are studying the hidden effects of artificial light.
Jocelyn Tsaih The Most Compelling Photo of the Moon Landing
As Buzz Aldrin descended the lander’s ladder, Neil Armstrong captured the moment.
NASA The True Price of Privatizing Space Travel
As NASA opens up the International Space Station to private astronauts, the romance of space will be within reach for those who can afford it.
Moving Stars Might Speed the Spread of Alien Life
Intelligent planet-hoppers could populate a galaxy in as little as 650,000 years.
P van Dokkum / NASA / AP The Search for Alien Life Begins in Earth’s Oldest Desert
In the Martian landscape that is the Atacama desert, astrobiologists are learning how to recognize extraterrestrial organisms.
Zoë van Dijk Earthquakes and Volcanoes May Have Helped Intelligent Life Evolve
Earth's slipping, sliding outer crust could be key to hosting a wide variety of living things.
Don Smith / Getty America in the Shadows
The nation’s dogged attempts to chase eclipses follow its own haphazard maturation.
Alexey Rotanov / Vladimir Wrangel / Shutterstock / Zak Bickel / The Atlantic Offbeat Ways to Enjoy the Total Eclipse
Readers plan to take in the eclipse using psychedelic drugs, boat trips, and other diversions.
Yoray Liberman / Getty
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