Popular Science. Demystifying the worlds of science and technology since 1872.
In 1963, a plane flew to space. Why couldn’t we go farther?
From the record-breaking X-15 to today’s hypersonic aircraft, the spaceplane dream never really died.
Podcasts
Latest Articles
Medieval Russian talisman depicts Christian warrior saint and Medusa
The ‘Zmeeviki’ example highlights 11th century cultural clashes in Russia.
Bald eagles Shadow and Kaydee share sticks and ‘beaky kisses’
It’s still too early to know if the pair’s friendship will blossom into something more.
China is exploring humanoid robots for war – but what role could they play?
A humanoid robot crushed Usain Bolt’s 100-metre sprint world record earlier this year.
Big boy Chunk returns ahead of Fat Bear Week 2026
Last year’s champion is back, busted jaw and all.
68% of physicists don’t think the time started at the big bang
A recent survey shows researchers remain divided on fundamental concepts. But that’s not a bad thing.
It’s almost time to airdrop rabies vaccines again
The USDA program uses fishmeal-coated bait bricks to lure raccoons and other animals.
What would you see if you had one eye on the back of your head and the other in the front?
A 360-degree view of the world around you would come with trade-offs.
First Diplodocus fossils found outside of United States
This huge guy was 83-feet long and a member of the longest land animals ever known.
Yellowstone National Park retrieved 280 hats from hydrothermal vents this summer
Other lost items include hair ties, dozens of lens caps, AirPods, and even an inhaler.
Arborists use supersonic air to save 300-year-old tree that survived American Revolution
The ‘witness tree’ in Eutaw Springs, South Carolina, also endured a lightning strike.
What makes ‘The Pitt’ so horrifyingly realistic? We asked the show’s makeup and prosthetic pros.
‘Depending on the procedure, it can vary between two and nine weeks to build.’
Popular Science Cover Art Store
Own a piece of science history.
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, Popular Science 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.
Meet the team
Our writers and editors
