Federal spending on fundamental scientific research is pivotal to America’s long-term economic competitiveness and growth. But less than two years after agreeing the U.S. needed to invest[1] tens of billions of dollars more in basic research than it had
Solar eclipses result from a fantastic celestial coincidence of scale and distance
On April 8, 2024, millions across the U.S. will have the once-in-a-lifetime chance to view a total solar eclipse. Cities including[1] Austin, Texas; Buffalo, New York; and Cleveland, Ohio, will have a direct view of this rare cosmic event that lasts for
Total solar eclipses, while stunning, can damage your eyes if viewed without the right protection
On April 8, 2024, and for the second time in the past decade, people in the U.S. will have an opportunity to view a total solar eclipse[1]. But to do so safely, you’ll need to wear proper protection[2], or risk eye damage.
Earth is the only planet in
a rocky road for its rovers, a long slog for scientists – and back on Earth, a battle of the budget
Is or was there life on Mars? That profound question is so complex that it will not be fully answered by the two NASA rovers now exploring it[1].
But because of the literal groundwork the rovers are performing, scientists are finally investigating,
Salty foods are making people sick − in part by poisoning their microbiomes
People have been using salt since the dawn of civilization[1] to process, preserve and enhance foods. In ancient Rome[2], salt was so central to commerce that soldiers were paid their “salarium,” or salaries, in salt, for instance.
Salt’s value was in
Are private conversations truly private? A cybersecurity expert explains how end-to-end encryption protects you
Imagine opening your front door wide and inviting the world to listen in on your most private conversations. Unthinkable, right? Yet, in the digital realm, people inadvertently leave doors ajar, potentially allowing hackers, tech companies, service providers
Why do trees need sunlight? An environmental scientist explains photosynthesis
Curious Kids[1] is a series for children of all ages. If you have a question you’d like an expert to answer, send it to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. [2]. Why do trees need sunlight? – Tillman, age 9, Asheville, North Carolina Trees need sunlight