EurekAlert! - Science Reporting for Kids

Climate change works for the brown argus butterfly

Thu, 24 May 2012 00:00:00 EDT

A pretty brown butterfly with orange spots on its wings, called the brown argus butterfly, is thriving in the United Kingdom for an interesting reason. Summers have become warmer in the last twenty years, and this change opens up new possibilities for where the butterfly can lay its eggs.

Fragments of rocks that hit the moon

Thu, 17 May 2012 00:00:00 EDT

While looking at rocks collected on the moon during the Apollo mission, scientists have found tiny fragments of meteorites that hit the moon long ago.

Breaking free from a cosmic cocoon

Tue, 15 May 2012 00:00:00 EDT

In movies, heroes and villains are thrown forward after an explosion. This is because an powerful wave of energy, called a shock wave, is released. In space, the same thing happens when a star explodes in what is called a supernova explosion.

Earliest known Mayan astronomical calendar

Thu, 10 May 2012 00:00:00 EDT

A painted room in a Mayan temple in Guatemala shows numerical records of lunar and possibly planetary cycles, scientists report in a new study. The hieroglyphs are from the 9th century, making this calendar older than the records in the Mayan Codices, which were books written on bark paper a few centuries before Columbus landed.

A different kind of cave treasure

Thu, 03 May 2012 00:00:00 EDT

What do you think the scientists who explored the amazing caves in these pictures were looking for? Bats? Skeletons? Pirate treasure? Actually, it was the stalagmites that they were after, because these spiky formations contain important chemical clues to ancient climate.

NJ students named champions in unique contest that aims to demonstrate real-world importance of math

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 00:00:00 EDT

Math skills plus a creative solution to a current US transportation issue equals a prestigious top spot in a one-of-a-kind national math contest. That was the formula for success of a team of five New Jersey high school students, who placed first in the 2012 Moody's Mega MathChallenge, sharing $20,000 from a total $115,000 scholarship pool as well as bragging rights after being chosen from thousands of student participants.

Did fire or ice shape the valleys of Mars?

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 00:00:00 EDT

A particular region of Mars, known as the Athabasca Valles, can be identified by polygon-shaped patterns on the ground. This part of the planet is a network of valleys located near the equator of Mars, and for years astronomers have puzzled over what kind of processes shaped it.

Nation's future STEM professionals gather at D.C. event

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 00:00:00 EDT

Young science enthusiasts from around the country -- including future naval researchers and scientists -- are gathering in the nation's capital for a weekend of discovery at the USA Science & Engineering Festival April 28-29. The event brings a diverse student audience face-to-face with professional scientists and popular TV personalities to showcase the excitement of science and engineering. The Office of Naval Research exhibit will feature two of its hands-on activities: SeaPerch and Physics of Sail.

Miracle at Cook's Pond: NJIT takes first place at Concrete Canoe Competition

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 00:00:00 EDT

Some two dozen civil engineering students at NJIT were thrilled last Sunday as they took first place in the 2012 Concrete Canoe Competition for the New York metropolitan region. This was NJIT's first year in the race following a long hiatus and students spent months designing, fund-raising and building their own concrete canoes. Sunday's event at Denville's Cook's Pond was the final event -- a competitive race to see how the boats held up under pressure. NJIT hosted the event.

Polar bears older than previously thought

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 00:00:00 EDT

Polar bears diverged from their closest relatives about 600,000 years ago, according to a new genetic study published in the April 20 issue of the journal Science.

Spring football goes robotic

Thu, 19 Apr 2012 00:00:00 EDT

It's the season for spring football games and the University of Notre Dame's 83rd annual Blue Gold Football Game will have an unusual accompaniment. Notre Dame's Robotic Football Team will host the Polar Bears of Ohio Northern University in the first-ever intercollegiate mechatronic football game on April 20.

Titanic discoverer embarks on ONR mission to boost STEM education

Wed, 18 Apr 2012 00:00:00 EDT

The famed ocean explorer and RMS Titanic discoverer visited the Office of Naval Research April 18 to discuss how he's using innovative "tele-presence" technology for both research and to energize youth about the sciences. Dr. Robert Ballard -- also known for locating several legendary shipwrecks as well as discovering deep-water hydrothermal vents -- gave a presentation titled, "The Development of Tele-presence Technology in Support of Ocean Exploration and Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics Education."

Students' underwater robots face off in national competition

Fri, 13 Apr 2012 00:00:00 EDT

With a national title on the line, student teams from across the country are competing with their underwater robots in the Office of Naval Research-funded championship April 11-13 in Manassas Park, Va. The 2012 National SeaPerch Challenge brings top teams from middle and high school together to compete with the underwater robots they've built as part of a curriculum designed to boost their skills and interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.

Baboons can learn to spot printed words

Thu, 12 Apr 2012 00:00:00 EDT

Baboons can't read, but they can learn to tell the difference between real printed words (like KITE) and nonsense words (like ZEVS), scientists say.

Archaeologists of the universe

Thu, 12 Apr 2012 00:00:00 EDT

Astronomers and archaeologists (like Indiana Jones) have a lot in common, as they both look for clues to understand past events. However, while archaeologists have to dig deep underground to find fossils and ruins, all astronomers have to do is look up to the night sky. That's because when we look at objects in the night sky, we are seeing them as they looked when the light they gave off started its long journey across the universe to us!

ASPB returns for more science outreach at the White House

Mon, 09 Apr 2012 00:00:00 EDT

The American Society of Plant Biologists returns today to the South Lawn of the White House in Washington, D.C., to offer science activities for kids as part of the 2012 White House Easter Egg Roll. About 35,000 entry ticket winners representing all 50 states will enjoy the 134th occurrence of this annual event.

Bone markings: Something for scientists to chew on

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 00:00:00 EDT

Many fossil animal bones have been dinged up by natural processes, chewed by carnivorous animals or cut by human tools. But, when researchers dig up these bones millions of years later, it can be really difficult to tell these different types of marks apart.

A star turned inside out!

Wed, 04 Apr 2012 00:00:00 EDT

What happens what a star explodes? The answer is it sometimes turns itself inside out. We know this thanks to X-ray pictures of this exploded star.

Students use math to help US high-speed rail get back on track

Mon, 02 Apr 2012 00:00:00 EDT

Judges for Moody's Mega Math Challenge evaluated nearly 1,000 solution papers, and have selected the top 55 as the contest moves one step closer to deciding this year's best.

With pesticides, bees can't find their way home

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 00:00:00 EDT

Scientists have discovered some of the ways that a widely used insecticide harms bumblebees and honeybees.Bumblebees and honeybees are important pollinators of flowering plants, including many major fruit and vegetable crops. Each year, honeybee hives are trucked in on farms to help pollinate almond, apple and blueberry crops, among others.

The extinction of Australia's giant animals

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 00:00:00 EDT

Human hunters were primarily responsible for the disappearance of Australia's giant vertebrates about 40,000 years ago. And, this extinction in turn caused major ecological changes. These are the conclusions of a new study in the March 23, 2012, issue of the journal Science.

UH receives ExxonMobil grant for Bernard Harris Summer Science Camp

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 00:00:00 EDT

ExxonMobil awarded another grant to the UH teachHOUSTON math and science teacher preparation program, as it once again takes the reins of the Bernard Harris Summer Science Camp for Houston-area middle school students. This year's theme addresses the reliance on fossil fuels and the need for alternative energy sources, with campers being tasked to find a plan for constructing an energy-efficient home using various forms of energy. Deadline to sign up is Thursday, April 5.

Timing is key to fern's spore-throwing catapult

Thu, 15 Mar 2012 00:00:00 EDT

If you've ever been hiking, chances are you've seen fern plants in the woods. Nestled under fern leaves are tiny capsules chock-full of spores, tiny life vessels which, like seeds, are used for dispersal. Fern plants launch their spores with tiny catapults. Once in the air, wind and air currents can take the spores around the world.

NJIT senior develops Web-based list of must-read books on climate, more

Tue, 13 Mar 2012 00:00:00 EDT

NJIT senior Anthony Sorgi wants to save the world -- or at least improve it. And he thinks other college students want to do the same. Sorgi, of Lebanon Township, and enrolled in Albert Dorman Honors College, the main supporter and funder of his efforts, has already begun making that difference.

The Waterlust Project takes off

Fri, 09 Mar 2012 00:00:00 EST

The Waterlust Project, spearheaded by University of Miami grad student Patrick Rynne offers a fresh take on connecting people with the environment -- particularly water and the ocean.

What can honeybees tell us about human behavior?

Thu, 08 Mar 2012 00:00:00 EST

A new study of honeybees might help researchers understand why some people break free of their normal routines and seek out new experiences. Zhengzheng Liang and colleagues took a close look at the genes that are expressed in the brains of honeybees when the bees are out searching for new food sources.

Students taking part in DOE 'biggest energy loser challenge'

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 00:00:00 EST

Lessons about energy efficiency are hitting home through an online middle school pilot curriculum developed for students in Louisiana, Hawaii and Japan.

Is US high-speed rail worth the cost?

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 00:00:00 EST

Gas prices today are 10 percent higher than they were a year ago and projected to reach $5 a gallon in some parts of the country by Memorial Day. This is a major reason why our country's leaders are exploring alternate methods of transportation less influenced by oil prices. This past weekend, competing high school teams in Moody's Mega Math Challenge, an Internet-based applied-math modeling contest, also weighed in on the mass transit issue.

NASA invites children and families to learn about the universe

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 00:00:00 EST

NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center Visitor Center in Greenbelt, Md. will host this month's Sunday Experiment on Sunday, March 18 from 1-3 p.m. EST. It's a free afternoon for children of all ages and their families with a look at how NASA's most powerful space telescope will look at the universe and see further back in time than ever before.

It's easy being green on St. Patrick's Day

Mon, 05 Mar 2012 00:00:00 EST

The 83rd Annual Meeting of the Entomological Society of America, Eastern Branch, will feature "It's a Bug's World -- An Insect Fair for All Ages," on Saturday, March 17 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at the Hilton Hartford.

Unlike chimps, young kids share knowledge

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 00:00:00 EST

Young children trying to solve a puzzle collaborated and shared information, while chimps and capuchin monkeys working on the same puzzle did not, according to a new study. These findings help explain why human culture gets more complex over generations, while that of other animals seems to stay roughly the same. Other animals are capable of learning from each other, so researchers would like to know what special human abilities allow us to have "cumulative culture."

NASA looks for international student educational interest

Wed, 29 Feb 2012 00:00:00 EST

NASA is putting out the call to students who have interest in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). There is a national effort to promote STEM education careers to students as young as grade-schoolers. Having students of all ages become well versed in STEM subjects will create a pipeline of talent necessary for NASA's future exploration initiatives.

Why did the raccoon cross the road? To get to the other side

Wed, 29 Feb 2012 00:00:00 EST

As traffic rumbles overhead, two eyes glow inside a storm drain beneath one of Maryland's highways. A raccoon is making his way from one side of the street to the other. Researchers set up infrared motion-detecting cameras to find out which critters are using the underground tunnels. They found the raccoon is one of 60 species that use the culverts as their personal transportation system, connecting wildlife to habitats bisected by highways, and reducing highway collisions.

Moody's Mega Math Challenge: 1,193 teams, 29 states, $115,000 in prizes

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 00:00:00 EST

The stakes in Moody's Mega Math Challenge have always been high: thousands of students competing for thousands of dollars in scholarship prizes. And this year they are even higher as the contest has expanded to include more states and more money than ever before. More than 5,400 students comprising 1,193 teams from nearly one thousand high schools have registered for this year's contest, an almost 70 percent increase over last year.

Small horses liked it hot

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 00:00:00 EST

The earliest horses were closer in size to a housecat than to the modern-day animals we're familiar with. Even at this small scale, the body size of these ancient horses evolved over time. New research shows that environmental temperatures drove these changes.

Green beetles and bees hit Hartford, Conn., on St. Patrick's Day at BugWorld Insect Fair

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 00:00:00 EST

"It's a Bug's World," a free public program for kids and parents will feature live insects, a honey exhibit, a bed-bug sniffing dog, insect kites, cricket musicians, face painting, balloon art and more.

STEM Grand Challenge winners to build better digital tutors for students

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 00:00:00 EST

The Office of Naval Research today announced the selection of four academic and industry teams to develop affordable digital tutoring software to improve middle and high school students' science, technology, engineering and math knowledge. Winners of ONR's STEM Grand Challenge will produce intelligent tutoring technology that will enhance the STEM skills of students, Sailors and Marines while preparing the future naval science and engineering work force to address emerging national defense challenges.

Good vibrations and the science of touch

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 00:00:00 EST

Did you know that your fingertips and palms are especially good at feeling vibrations? You can check this out by putting your hands on an object that's giving a gentle hum, like a washing machine. Then try your forearm, and compare what you feel.

ORNL offers mentors, working space for students to build robots

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 00:00:00 EST

Students from eight local high schools will work hand in hand with ORNL scientists and engineers to build a robot for the FIRST robotics competition, a nationwide event that promotes science and engineering for high school students.

NASA scientist and education award winner leads student phytoplankton study

Fri, 10 Feb 2012 00:00:00 EST

Dr. Tiffany Moisan is a NASA scientist who thrives on studying the ocean and has a passion for educating and inspiring students in ocean sciences. Last year, Moisan received an award that enabled her to work with the education community and bring students into the field for a hands-on learning experience.

Shedding more light on major quakes

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 00:00:00 EST

Using a technique known as Light Detection and Ranging, or LIDAR, before and after large earthquakes might help researchers pinpoint the places where those quakes break the ground wide open, according to a new study.

Math contest adds up to prizes at UH

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 00:00:00 EST

More than 500 math-savvy teens will showcase their talents and vie for prizes during the seventh annual University of Houston Mathematics Contest Saturday, Feb. 11. The event is free to participants and open to both middle and high school students.

What to love about Moody's Mega Math Challenge

Wed, 08 Feb 2012 00:00:00 EST

While most typical teenagers are relaxing, shopping, going to the movies, or hanging out with friends, thousands of their peers will spend the first weekend in March analyzing and modeling a complex, real-world issue using the power of mathematics. Participants in Moody's Mega Math Challenge, these students will be competing for a share of $115,000 in scholarship prizes to be awarded by the Moody's Foundation in April.

Off Western Australia, temperature rules the reefs

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 00:00:00 EST

Australia's Great Barrier Reef has been in decline for years. Its crumbling conditions have caused many researchers to predict that higher levels of carbon dioxide in the world's oceans would only harm the coral further. But, new research is suggesting that a more acidic ocean -- due to increased carbon dioxide levels -- would not actually affect coral reefs as much as the sea's temperature.

Before they pounce, jumping spiders see green

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 00:00:00 EST

Jumping spiders have an unusual depth-perception system in their eyes, which helps them pounce on their prey, a Japanese research team has discovered.

Students showcase Mars rover models at 10th annual event Jan. 28

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 00:00:00 EST

More than 200 Mars rover models created by elementary and middle school students will arrive at the University of Houston Saturday, Jan. 28 at the 10th annual Mars Rover Model Celebration and Exhibition. The event hosts hundreds of contestants and is free for the public to attend. An educational endeavor for third- through eighth-graders, more than 700 students, representing 33 schools and 75 classrooms, are expected at the event.

Bird attraction based on illusion

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 00:00:00 EST

Bowerbirds, which live in Australia and New Guinea, have an elaborate mating ritual in which the males build large structures or "bowers" that females stop by to inspect. In a new study, scientists report that certain male bowerbirds attract mates by decorating their bowers in a way that creates an optical illusion.

Moving mathematics beyond the classroom: Moody's Mega Math Challenge

Wed, 18 Jan 2012 00:00:00 EST

Outside the classroom, the practical implications of math go far beyond cracking a complicated calculus problem. So how about giving students a math test where they are judged on the creativity of their ideas and the applicability of their solutions? That is the basis for Moody's Mega Math Challenge.

A wind-riding bird gets a boost

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 00:00:00 EST

The wandering albatross spends most of its life in flight, touching down on land to find food or to breed. These enormous seabirds, which have the largest wingspan of any living bird, conserve energy while aloft by riding the wind currents.

A 'fat' cluster of galaxies

Tue, 10 Jan 2012 00:00:00 EST

What do you get when you smash two of the largest objects in the universe together? A big fat one!

Origins of huge-headed 'supersoldier' ants

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 00:00:00 EST

Most ant species in the Pheidole genus have two social groups, or castes: workers and solders. Some also produce "supersoldiers." These large ants block their nest entrance with their extra-large heads and fight with invading ants during army ant raids.Although there are 1,100 different species of Pheidole ants worldwide, just a few of them produce supersoldiers.

One-third for the birds!

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 00:00:00 EST

As the numbers of big fish like tuna decline, humans are increasingly catching anchovies, sardines and other small "forage fish" instead. But if humans take too many, they could be cutting off the food supply for the animals that prey on forage fish.

Naked mole-rats feel no pain from acid

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 00:00:00 EST

The African naked mole-rat is, to our eyes, a pretty ugly creature. These small animals have no hair, wrinkly skin, and two long, yellow front teeth. They live in huge colonies inside deep underground tunnels, where there is little fresh air.

Connecting math to reality

Wed, 14 Dec 2011 00:00:00 EST

Moody's Mega Math Challenge not only gets students to appreciate math and science, but also keeps them interested in pursuing STEM degrees in college.

New American Chemical Society video on why people like or dislike foods

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 00:00:00 EST

The wonderful world of flavor chemistry -- that science that explains why we like or dislike certain foods -- is the topic of the latest episode in ¬the American Chemical Society's award-winning Bytesize Science podcast series.

Honor among rats

Thu, 08 Dec 2011 00:00:00 EST

In an unusual example of empathy in animals other than primates, new research shows that rats will liberate their distressed cagemates from a trap, even when they get no additional reward. These animals seem to be showing empathy, which has often been considered unique to primates. An empathetic animal can "put itself in another's shoes" while maintaining its own perspective and emotional separation.

Alliance teams up at UH to help visually impaired children

Wed, 07 Dec 2011 00:00:00 EST

A children's vision alliance is teaming up at the University of Houston's College of Optometry to provide life-changing aids to visually impaired children in need. Optelec and Sight Savers America are partnering with UH's Center for Sight Enhancement to donate equipment and training to five young patients aged 7 to 16, who have severe vision impairments that render them legally blind. They will receive the equipment and training at a low-vision clinic Dec. 13.

There's something about a face

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 00:00:00 EST

It's easy for people to tell one human face from another. We do it all the time without even thinking about it. But, it does take a special ability. Imagine trying to distinguish one goldfish face from another, or one squirrel face, or one wasp face. Within each of these species, all the faces look pretty much the same, right? In contrast, there's something about the human face that our brains recognize and remember in fine detail.

The world's first fish hooks?

Thu, 24 Nov 2011 00:00:00 EST

Researchers in East Timor, a country in Southeast Asia, have discovered the remains of large fish and fishing gear in a shelter that was used by early humans long ago. The remains include some fish hooks made out of bone and they appear to be 42,000 years old, which suggests that early humans were fishing in the open ocean much earlier than researchers had thought.

For decision-making, less information may be more

Thu, 17 Nov 2011 00:00:00 EST

A study on European starlings shows that when it comes to making decisions, it can help to have less information about the available choices -- but not always. Whether this "less-is-more" effect comes into play depends heavily on a species' ecological situation, the researchers report.

NASA announces 2011 NASA OPTIMUS PRIME Spinoff Video Contest

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 00:00:00 EST

NASA is kicking off its second annual NASA OPTIMUS PRIME Spinoff Video Contest to raise student awareness of how NASA technologies provide benefits to the public. Registration for the contest is open until Jan. 3, 2012.

Stars may not be massive or metallic

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 00:00:00 EST

Before stars existed in space, the only elements present in the universe were hydrogen, helium and lithium. The birth of the first stars fundamentally transformed the early universe by emitting the first light and producing the first metals.Astronomers are still trying to unlock some of the secrets of early star formation. Two new studies in the journal Science show that these early stars weren't as big or metallic as previously thought.

Office of Naval Research engages students at national American Indian conference

Wed, 09 Nov 2011 00:00:00 EST

Office of Naval Research representatives are heading to Minneapolis to interact with tribal college students and educators at the American Indian Science and Engineering Society's national conference Nov. 10-12. More than 17,000 Sailors and Marines and Department of the Navy civilians identify themselves as American Indian or Alaskan Native, according to the Navy Diversity Directorate. ONR's education outreach initiatives strive to encourage students to pursue studies that may lead to DON careers.

Teen musicians in drug treatment win 2012 GRAMMY experience

Mon, 07 Nov 2011 00:00:00 EST

Two teens with powerful stories about their experience in drug treatment have been awarded the top distinction in the MusiCares and GRAMMY Foundation's Teen Substance Abuse Awareness through Music Contest. The annual contest was created to celebrate National Drug Facts Week and is coordinated by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, part of the National Institutes of Health.

Bird brains primed for cooperation

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:00:00 EDT

Best friends sometimes finish each others' sentences, but the plain-tailed wrens of the Andes take things even further. Male and female wrens sing intimate duets in which they alternate syllables so quickly it sounds like a single bird is singing.

High school students tackle timely issues with mathematics

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 00:00:00 EDT

Registration for Moody's Mega Math Challenge 2012, an applied math contest for high school students, opens today.

Ugly bugs compete in 'Wild West' showdown

Sat, 29 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EDT

Little hombres in a gang of creepy, crawling critters are contending in the 2011 Ugly Bug Contest hosted on the Arizona State University "Ask A Biologist" website.

The big hearts of pythons

Thu, 27 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EDT

Pythons can go a full year without food, and once they do score a meal, their heart nearly doubles in size. Since the snake's heart-ballooning after a meal is similar to the heart growth seen in people who exercise a lot, like Olympic athletes, studying snake hearts could help scientists figure out how to make human hearts healthier.

New Halloween videos from the American Chemical Society

Thu, 27 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EDT

Scaring up some Halloween fun while increasing public awareness about chemistry's role in everyday life, the American Chemical Society today released two new episodes of its award-winning Bytesize Science video series that focus on the makings of two popular kinds of candy.

Helping people stay on their medication

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EDT

A new episode in the 2011 edition of a popular Prized Science video series from the American Chemical Society, the world's largest scientific society, focuses on research that helped ease side effects of treatments for diseases that affect millions of people around the world: schizophrenia and cancer.

Evidence from a prehistoric mastodon hunt

Thu, 20 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EDT

A controversial mastodon rib, found with the tip of a bone point lodged inside, is 13,800 years old, researchers report in a new study.

NASA invites students to study the sun during Solar Week

Wed, 19 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EDT

Please join us for Solar Week Fall 2011, Oct. 17-21 -- a lively week of online activities and curriculum for students about the sun, including games and lesson plans for the whole week. Your classroom can submit a question to solar scientists.

Saving sharks with Sophi

Mon, 17 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EDT

Second grader Sophi paints with marine artist Guy Harvey to help raise awareness and funds for the University of Miami's RJ Dunlap Marine Conservation Program.

The world's first art studio?

Thu, 13 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EDT

One of the earliest forms of paint is known as ochre -- and it really wasn't much more than colorful dirt. But, researchers believe that early humans may have used this colorful ochre to decorate their bodies or to make simple pieces of artwork.

Want to build a better monster?

Thu, 13 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EDT

Monsters are springing up online all over Phoenix's metro area -- possibly 16,000 of them -- real Halloween horrors: furred, fanged, feathered and altogether fun.

Giant-sized Webb Space Telescope model to 'land' in Baltimore

Thu, 13 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EDT

Baltimore's Maryland Science Center is going to be the "landing site" for the life-sized full-scale model of NASA's James Webb Space Telescope, and it's free for all to see.

If you love something, close it up? The weird world of caves

Thu, 06 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EDT

How would you feel if someone told you they'd discovered someplace amazing, but if they let other people come visit, it would be ruined? Would you wonder, what's the point of protecting it, if nobody can enjoy it? Or, could you appreciate the place without having to actually see it in person?

NASA movie on ocean circulation gets visitors in the 'LOOP'

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 00:00:00 EDT

When balance teeters, movement results. This simple idea is the fuel for a new movie from NASA called LOOP. Opening Oct. 6 around the country in spectacular Science On a Sphere theaters, LOOP explores natural forces that propel circulation patterns on Earth.

Superfast muscles found in bats

Thu, 29 Sep 2011 00:00:00 EDT

As bats swoop in on their prey, their sonar-based calls -- used to locate and track their meals -- increase to an incredible speed of about 160 calls per second. This kind of super-fast sonar call is known as the "terminal buzz," and it is often the last thing an insect ever hears.

National Fossil Day to be held during Earth Science Week 2011

Tue, 27 Sep 2011 00:00:00 EDT

The American Geological Institute and the National Park Service are collaborating on the second annual National Fossil Day -- Oct. 12, 2011 -- during Earth Science Week (Oct. 9-15).

Cattle versus wildlife: The battle for food has benefits

Thu, 22 Sep 2011 00:00:00 EDT

In Africa, the widespread belief among small subsistence farmers and commercial ranchers alike is that nearby wildlife compete with livestock for food. The solution for most farmers is to kill off wildlife. These eradication efforts are troublesome to scientists and others concerned about biodiversity conservation.

Are you ready for this jelly?

Thu, 15 Sep 2011 00:00:00 EDT

There are places in the ocean where giant jellyfish rule. They look like dinner plate-sized water balloons, hundreds and sometimes thousands of them floating together. When people catch too many regular fish like sardines or anchovies, they leave behind an empty ocean neighborhood that the jellyfish move into in a big way.

Jumping for Jurassic joy: Museum of the Earth opens full-view Fossil Preparation Lab

Tue, 13 Sep 2011 00:00:00 EDT

See history in the making: The Museum of the Earth, an affiliate of Cornell University, officially opens its new Fossil Preparation Laboratory on Saturday, Sept. 24.

Virus gene leads moths to tree top doom

Thu, 08 Sep 2011 00:00:00 EDT

A gene found in a virus turns gypsy moth caterpillars into tree-climbing zombies, reports a new study in the journal Science on Sept. 9, 2011. These moth caterpillars infected by a virus known as a baculovirus, are hypnotized into climbing to the top of trees to die, liquefy and rain viral particles on the foliage below to infect new hosts.

Deadline approaching for Mars Rover Teacher Workshop at UH

Thu, 08 Sep 2011 00:00:00 EDT

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Mars Rover Model Celebration and Exhibition. A workshop to prepare teachers for coaching their students through the planning and completion of operational rover models will be held at the University of Houston 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 17. While walk-ins are welcome, the deadline to sign up for receiving materials is Sept. 10.

An evolutionary 'cradle' for ice-age giants

Thu, 01 Sep 2011 00:00:00 EDT

The frosty highlands of the Tibetan Plateau may have been an evolutionary "cradle" for the woolly rhinos and other shaggy, cold-hardy creatures that roamed North America and Eurasia during the last ice age, a new study suggests.

Earth-bound meteorites come from stony asteroids

Thu, 25 Aug 2011 00:00:00 EDT

Thanks to the Hayabusa space mission, researchers have gotten their first up-close look at dust from the surface of an asteroid. The unmanned Japanese spacecraft was launched in 2003 and sent to the stony, or S-type, asteroid known as 25143 Itokawa. In 2005, it landed on the surface of that asteroid and scooped up some loose dust. Hayabusa returned to Earth in 2010 and researchers from all over the world have been analyzing the asteroid dust ever since.

Good teachers need more than facts

Thu, 18 Aug 2011 00:00:00 EDT

What makes a good teacher? When adults answer this question, they often talk about how well the teacher understands his or her subject and can explain it to students. But, if you're a student reading this, you might be thinking, well, OK, but there's more to it than that...

'Aspiring Scientists' program concludes another successful year

Wed, 17 Aug 2011 00:00:00 EDT

George Mason University's Aspiring Scientists Summer Internship Program wrapped up its fifth year Monday with final presentations highlighting the original research projects completed by the program's 48 students through the science-mentoring program. This summer, the high school and undergraduate students put in eight 40-hour weeks as they worked benchside with their dedicated Mason faculty mentors from disciplines such as chemistry, biochemistry, proteomics, genomics, neuroscience, biodefense, bioinformatics, computer science, nanotechnology, physics and environmental science.

No technical know-how needed: Endless Forms website helps users 'breed' 3-D printable objects

Wed, 17 Aug 2011 00:00:00 EDT

Forget draft tables and complicated computer-aided design programs: You dream it. Endless Forms helps you design it.

By sticking with the group, wasps help themselves

Thu, 11 Aug 2011 00:00:00 EDT

What makes animals and insects like Polistes dominulus, commonly known as the European paper wasp, work together and help each other out? What benefits do these wasps receive from building their nests with strangers and serving the queen wasp? Until now, researchers have believed that the wasps are somehow benefiting their relatives by helping out around the nest.

Female frogs limit the length of male mating calls

Thu, 04 Aug 2011 00:00:00 EDT

Male tungara frogs are known for their long mating calls, which they use in hopes of attracting a female. But, a new study shows that a long-winded frog song doesn't necessarily guarantee the males a mate. Instead, it seems that the female tungara frog's perception -- or what she hears from her environment -- is just as important as what the males are singing to her.

Nobel Prize-winning physicist honored with US postage stamp

Fri, 29 Jul 2011 00:00:00 EDT

Though physicists know Maria Goeppert Mayer left her own stamp on history, the US Postal Service recently issued one of its own to commemorate the nuclear physicist.This June, the Postal Service released a new stamp honoring Maria Goeppert Mayer, a Nobel Prize-winning physicist who worked at the US Department of Energy's Argonne National Laboratory in the 1940s and '50s. The year also marks the 20th anniversary of the founding of the Women in Science and Technology organization at Argonne.

MU study pairs military veterans and shelter dogs to ease transition home for veterans

Thu, 28 Jul 2011 00:00:00 EDT

A University of Missouri professor is conducting a unique study that will give military veterans a "training buddy" to help them cope while helping shelter dogs become more adoptable.

Hear my nectar: How dish-shaped leaves attract pollinating bats

Thu, 28 Jul 2011 00:00:00 EDT

Bats use high pitched sounds to locate food and navigate. Humans generally can't hear these high pitched sounds. When these sounds bounce off of objects, bats are capable of listening to the returning echoes, which gives bats a sense about the distance, movement and size of all objects in their path -- this is called "echolocation."

A gene to help the butterfly's disguise

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 00:00:00 EDT

Heliconius butterflies include more than 40 different species of butterfly, and they are famous for their strikingly unique and colorful wing patterns. They have evolved their current wing colors by mimicking, or copying, the warning signals of other species of butterfly.

Being the boss baboon is stressful

Thu, 14 Jul 2011 00:00:00 EDT

Boss baboons, the alpha males at the very top of wild baboon society, have higher stress hormone levels than second high ranking males, a new study in the journal Science reports. The findings hint that being the boss isn't always fun, and can sometimes be tiring and hard.

A new player in spinal cord injuries?

Thu, 07 Jul 2011 00:00:00 EDT

Scars are made of connective tissue that replaces normal skin after a wound -- and even though most people don't like the way they look, they play a valuable role in the healing process.

The July 16 'Great Bee Count Day' draws near

Wed, 06 Jul 2011 00:00:00 EDT

With a sunflower and a half-hour each month, you could help San Francisco State University scientist Gretchen LeBuhn learn more about the lives of pollinating bees and the essential services they provide for humans.

Shooting for the stars

Wed, 06 Jul 2011 00:00:00 EDT

Lindsay Lohan, Charlie Sheen? Oh, no. "Burned-out star" has a totally different meaning for Judi Provencal. The University of Delaware astronomer has been busy manning the command center for a star watch of epic proportions, the latest observing run of the Whole Earth Telescope. This global collaboration of observatories collects asteroseismic data -- information on stellar waves that pass through hot stars in the cosmos like earthquakes pass through Earth.