Reading magma, predicting giant eruptions

Tiny crystals show super-volcano getting ready to erupt

Volcanic eruptions are unpredictable, but here's a new view of the historic eruption of a Mediterranean monster. About 3,500 years ago, Santorini's eruption left a giant caldera and 60-meter layers of pumice. A new study of tiny crystals tracks the movement of molten magma before the cataclysm. More »

Chasing neutrinos at the South Pole

World's iciest telescope looks down; sees ancient explosions

Neutrinos are odd: Extremely difficult to see, they travel through mass with scarcely a trace. A 1-billion ton detector in South Pole ice is now counting neutrinos, intent on understanding their origin and role in the universe, and even spotting echoes of the Big Bang. More »

Science Teachers: Hip yourself to a great resource!

Teaching the science standards? Looking for extra-credit projects?

For 15 years, we've presented the science behind the news. The Why Files are accurate, engaging, entertaining and educational. Check our links from national science teaching standards to specific Why Files -- all 750 of them! Whether it's geology or archaeology, weather or human behavior, The Why Files has it covered. More »

I robot. Aye science!

Exploring ocean and atmosphere with smart vehicles

Military technology supports atmospheric and ocean science! 1: a robot sub smart enough to find stuff in the deep ocean 2: a metal fish glides for weeks under the ice 3: an electric sinker-bobber that never needs recharging 4: a research jet that flies miles above airliners. More »