Science

Crows Are the New Pigeons

They’re flocking to cities for the same reasons people do.

How Long Should a Species Stay on Life Support?

Decades into their recovery program, black-footed ferrets still don’t have a clear-cut path to leaving the endangered-species list.

The Most Powerful Rocket in History Had a Good Morning

SpaceX’s latest Starship mission flew farther than before—and tested technology that could elevate humankind’s spacefaring status.

The Return of Measles

Cases are creeping up in America, and not because of politics.

Fruit Chaos Is Coming

Climate change is threatening to turn sublime summer stone fruits disgusting, or rob us of their pleasures entirely.

Do Animals Have Fun?

Scientists want an evolutionary explanation for animal play. But maybe the answer is simply: It brings them joy.

Evolution Isn’t Just a Matter of Chance

Mollusk eyes could help unravel a long-standing biological mystery.

The Oceans We Knew Are Already Gone

As far as humanity is concerned, the transformation of our seas is “effectively permanent.”

The Cystic-Fibrosis Breakthrough That Changed Everything

The disease once guaranteed an early death—but a new treatment has given many patients a chance to live decades longer than expected. What do they do now?

The Universe Is Nothing Without Us

I was called to science to seek a truth that transcended humanity. What I found instead is much more rewarding.

Goodbye to Biden’s First Climate Envoy

John Kerry believes the world can still limit global warming, even if U.S. climate politics are “embarrassing.”

A Persistent Lightning Mystery Has Finally Been Solved

What’s the lightning capital of the U.S.?

Shark Teeth Aren’t Just ‘Triangular Pointy Things’

Scientists are studying ancient teeth for clues about the ocean’s past.

How First Contact With Whale Civilization Could Unfold

If we can learn to speak their language, what should we say?

Apollo’s Sequel Will Be a Gold Rush

The moon hasn’t seen this many missions since the Apollo era. This time, humanity might be there to stay.

Florida’s Experiment With Measles

How far can the state go before a serious outbreak hits?

There’s Only One Way to Fix Air Pollution Now

Clean-air rules just can’t keep up with climate change.

The Secret of Plant ‘Sight’

Scientists have discovered that a mysterious behavior might come down to air.

Anchorage Fell in Love With a White Raven

Reports that the leucistic raven was spotted at a McDonald’s—and then later at a Wendy’s—drew large crowds.

Great Apes Know Just How Much to Annoy One Another

Playful teasing might have evolved to help our ape ancestors gather crucial intel on their family’s and friends’ thoughts.