Popular Science. Demystifying the worlds of science and technology since 1872.

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Rachel Feltman

Rachel Feltman

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illustration of a large lizard with a bulging head carrying a large egg
Wildlife

Bones of a raccoon-sized prehistoric lizard sat in a jar for 20 years

The formidable lizard is named for Tolkien’s goblin prince, Bolg.

Huge wave breaking. Ocean spray is thrown into the air. World famous surf break named Jaws on the Northshore of Maui, Hawaii.
Ocean

What’s the formula for the ‘perfect wave’?

But ask a surfer—or a scientist—and you’ll find that perfection is both elusive and everywhere.

a long black amphibian with feathered gills called an axolotl swims in a fish tank
Wildlife

Axolotl mucus peptides attack breast cancer cells and MRSA

‘The peptides specifically kill cancer cells without attacking healthy breast tissue cells.’

A Guatemalan tiger rump tarantula (Davus pentaloris) in a terrarium with reflections.
Spiders

Tarantulas adapt their running style after losing legs

Six legs can work just fine for the flexible Guatemalan tiger rump tarantula.

Fuzzy beetle on red flower
Wildlife

Most bugs can’t see red—but these beetles can

Two species found in the Mediterranean can see what many of their relatives cannot.

Large truck towing ANITA atmospheric survey system in Antarctica
Particle Physics

Physicists can’t explain mysterious radio wave emissions in Antarctica

The anomalous readings ‘appear inconsistent with the standard model of particle physics.’

A great hammerhead shark swimming close to the surface in Bimini, Bahamas, Caribbean Sea.
Endangered Species

Young hammerhead sharks love Biscayne Bay. Leave them alone, humans.

The estuary in southern Florida is a nursery and refuge for this critically endangered species.

Human head covered by smoke from factory chimneys. Air pollution, emmisions, climate change concept. Vector illustration.
Pollution

What warped the minds of serial killers? Lead pollution, a new book argues.

Ted Bundy, the Green River Killer, and others terrorized the Pacific Northwest. “Murderland” asks what role polluters played.

Fragment with portion of inscription that says Odysseus
Archaeology

Ancient Greek inscriptions point to the ‘Sanctuary of Odysseus’

Archeologists continue to shed light on the historical origins behind Homer’s ‘Odyssey.’

Own a piece of science history.

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Popular Science has been demystifying the worlds of science and technology since 1872. We explain the inner workings of the phone in your pocket, explore world-changing innovations, and examine everything from the marvels of deep space to the secret lives of staples like bread. We deliver an engaging, approachable, and inclusive look at emerging technologies and scientific advances.
Daily, PopSci unpacks the science behind the top current new stories, dissects the latest technology and digital trends, and helps readers live smarter, safer, and happier through clever DIY projects.

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