Earth

Climate

2015’s record heat: It will soon be ‘normal’

The record-setting global temperatures seen in 2015 could become common as soon as the 2020s, and known as the “new normal.”

Climate

Predicting a wildfire with data from space

When the West gets dry it can catch fire. A teen decided to find out if satellite data might show where a fire’s fuel might reside.

Agriculture

Teen develops water-saving pods for seeds

In California’s drought, every drop of water counts. A teen developed a capsule to keep sprouting seeds wet and reduce water use.

Environment

Ocean of the future may make shrimp small and colorful

Carbon dioxide released into the air can end up in the ocean, making it more acidic. A teen showed that this acidification could shrink shrimp and make them more colorful.

Environment

Arctic Sea could be ice-free by 2050

Everyone contributes to the melting of Arctic sea ice, and all are in danger of making summer ice disappear there completely by 2050, a new study finds.

Oceans

Beaches can be a germy playground

Infectious microbes can flourish on sandy beaches. Scientists are now exploring how to find and monitor these hotspots for pollution that can make vacationers sick.

Oceans

Creative ways to help coral reefs recover

Coral reefs are under siege from threats ranging from climate change to explosives. But scientists are developing ways to rebuild reefs before they disappear.

Tech

Water sensor quickly detects algal poison

A new sensor can detect poisons from harmful algae within minutes so that drinking-water plants can start timely treatments.

Climate

Cool Jobs: Wet and wild weather

How’s the weather? Forecasts rely on scientists and engineers who collect and interpret data gathered on the ground, in the sky and way up in space.

Environment

Rocket nozzle research propels teen to big win

A 13-year old won the top prize at this year’s Broadcom MASTERS science competition. She had determined the best shape for a rocket nozzle. 

Environment

Fattening maggots to create a designer food

Davia Allen wants to reduce food waste by feeding it to fly larvae — which can then serve as food for poultry, fish and people.

Health & Medicine

How fossil fuel use threatens kids’ health

A children’s health expert says kids suffer more than any other group from the many impacts of fossil fuel burning.