Archaeology
- Humans
This ancient ivory comb reveals a wish to be free of lice
The comb bears the earliest known complete sentence written in a phonetic alphabet, researchers say.
- Archaeology
King Tut’s tomb still holds secrets 100 years after its discovery
New details of Tut’s story are still coming to light. Here are three things to know on the 100th anniversary of his tomb’s discovery.
- Humans
Long-lost ‘smellscapes’ are wafting from artifacts and old texts
By studying and reviving old scents, archaeologists are finding new clues about how ancient Egyptians experienced their world through smell.
- Archaeology
Rats can chronicle human history
Rats have lived alongside people for thousands of years. Now, scientists can study the rats and their leavings to learn more about ourselves.
- Fossils
Bright-colored feathers may have topped pterosaurs’ heads
Fossil remains of a flying reptile hint that their vibrant crests may have originated 250 million years ago in a common ancestor with dinosaurs.
- Humans
Scientists Say: Denisovan
The Denisovans were a recently discovered population of ancient hominids.
- Physics
Muons reveal the inner worlds of pyramids, volcanoes and more
Tracking these subatomic particles can uncover surprising hidden structures.
- Humans
The earliest known pants are surprisingly modern — and comfy
This 3,000-year-old garment was not only stylish but also functional. By recreating it, scientists also unraveled its complex and multicultural origins.
- Archaeology
Our species may have reached Europe while Neandertals were there
Archaeological finds from an ancient French rock-shelter show periodic settlements by both populations, just not at the same time.
- Animals
Mysterious kunga is the oldest known human-bred hybrid animal
People bred these animals — part donkey, part wild ass — some 4,500 years ago, probably for use in fighting wars.
- Archaeology
Vikings were in North America 1,000 years ago
Wooden objects provide the most precise dating yet for a Viking settlement on the coast of Newfoundland in Canada.
- Humans
Genetics show humans likely trace back to Africa
Our history began looking ever more complex once geneticists revealed our ancestors picked up new DNA as they traveled across time and continents.
