After an asteroid struck Finland long ago, microscopic life colonized the impact site within a few million years, new research reveals.
Earth science
Scientists Tune In to the Ocean’s Sound Waves
A new technique detects inaudible acoustic signals from crashing waves, opening up possibilities for monitoring sea and atmospheric conditions from shore.
Zircon Crystals Could Reveal Earth’s Path Among the Stars
Researchers found signs of melting in zircon crystals in the crust that correspond to our planet’s journey through the galaxy’s spiral arms.
New 3D Model Reveals Geophysical Structures Beneath Britain
Using magnetotelluric data to identify subsurface electrically conductive and resistive areas, scientists can identify underground features and predict how space weather may affect infrastructure.
Ice Diatoms Glide at Record-Low Temperatures
New observations reveal how microscopic organisms move through polar ice and illustrate how they may have evolved to thrive in extreme environments.
The AI Revolution in Weather Forecasting Is Here
The past decade has seen explosive growth in forecasting research and applications using AI. Sophisticated new approaches show vast potential to support public safety, health, and economic prosperity.
Old Forests in the Tropics Are Getting Younger and Losing Carbon
New research quantifying the global impact of forest age transitions found that 140 million tons of aboveground carbon are lost per year because of old-growth forests being replaced by younger stands.
Science Agencies Shuttered in Government Shutdown
At 12:01 a.m. this morning, the U.S. federal government shut down. This shutdown comes after weeks of negotiations and pressure tactics failed to bring Congressional Republicans and Democrats together on a budget for the 2026 fiscal year or a continuing resolution to fund the government for a few more weeks.
Spiky Sand Features Can Reveal the Timing of Ancient Earthquakes
Icicle-shaped features known as sand dikes form during ground shaking. New work reveals how these features can be used to date long-ago earthquakes.
Small Satellites, Big Futures
Programs that teach students to design, build, and launch tiny satellites are helping to inspire the next generation of space scientists and engineers.
