Articles
Science Friday is your trusted source for news and entertaining stories about science.
A Christmas Tree Grows In Oregon
The country’s Christmas tree capital is Oregon, where Douglas and noble firs reign thanks to accommodating climate and soil.
Holiday Gift Idea: Offbeat Science Books
From Rube Goldberg devices to jet packs, these books cover subjects that won’t disappoint.
Where Do the Geminids Come From? (Hint: It’s Not a Comet)
Evidence suggests that these fireballs don’t come from a comet, but an asteroid with a tail.
Fritz Kahn’s Fantastical Journey Through the Body
The German graphic designer was a pioneer of popular science communication, using familiar objects as metaphors for biological processes.
The ‘Bunny Girl’ on the Moon
In 1969, the Apollo 11 astronauts heard about a mythical goddess who lives on the moon with her rabbit companion.
‘The Simpsons’ Has Been Drip-Feeding Us Math
An excerpt from “The Simpsons and Their Mathematical Secrets.”
Backstage at ‘The Big Bang Theory’
Being on set at the popular show left me starstruck.
Airplane of the Future?
This plane looks blue under ultraviolet light, but it’s designed to be green.
10 Questions for Mark Mello, Moth Man
The zoologist attributes his affinity for nature to a childhood of tromping outdoors.
The Choreographic World of Elizabeth Streb
Ira’s conversation with Action Architect Elizabeth Streb continues.
A Monarch Retreat
For Californians, Thanksgiving is prime time for butterfly counting.
All About Apples: Some History, a Recipe, and Recommendations
An excerpt from “Eating on the Wild Side,” complete with apple crisp recipe.
Mapping Microbes in California Wine Country
Wine grapes have distinctive microbial patterns based on growing conditions, environmental features, and the fruit itself.
Now You Can Peruse Carl Sagan’s Stuff
A collection featuring Carl Sagan paraphernalia is open to the public at the Library of Congress.
Bristling at the Cold
Its brown and black bristles help this creature survive harsh winters.
Saturn Says ‘Cheese’
The Cassini spacecraft’s sweeping shot shows Saturn, its moons and rings, and Earth, Venus, and Mars.
A Butterfly’s-Eye View: Aloft in a Balloon
Camille Flammarion’s balloon excursions afforded a new perspective on the world.
Turmoil at Twitter: A CEO’s Ouster
Evan Williams was forced out of the company in a boardroom coup carried out by the people he had hired.
What You Didn’t Know About Einstein
When you find yourself wanting to re-read a book that you just finished, you gotta recommend it to others.