Watch this amazing video showing time-lapse photography of the Aurora Borealis in Alaska
Author Archives: Hilary Woods
Beauty Is in the Brain of the Beholder
Studies show that beauty exists as an abstract concept in the brain which implies it is a perception rather than a reality.
In 5 to 10 years, robots will deal with disasters, not humans
Could robots take over from humans in disaster recovery? Scientists at Virginia Tech think so. Learn about their work with robotic disaster response here.
How social media is helping Nepal rebuild after two big earthquakes
As the effects of the recent earthquake in Nepal became clear, many people have turned to social media to help them locate loved ones and help those affected.
Is your dog a genius? Putting Fido to the test
You can now find out if your dog is a super smart canine Einstein. Read on for more.
Fear Factor Gene Discovered
Did you know that scientists discovered a gene that influences the brain’s response to fear and danger? Read about it here.
Montana Offers A Boost To Native Language Immersion Programs
Thanks to a new Montana state bill more Native American kids will now have the opportunity to participate in language immersion classes in public schools. Read about it here.
One 9 year old’s dream for changing the world — with knitting
Read about a non-profit organization set up by a 9-year old girl to use knitting as a tool to help educate women around the world.
Horror Movies: Why People Love Them
Why do we enjoy horror? Read about the various theories put forward for the popularity of horror movies.
California’s worst drought in 1,200 years in pictures
This series of images shows the devastating effect of the drought in California which has led to sweeping state-wide water restrictions for the first time in history .
Harriet Tubman Wins Unofficial Vote to Be on $20 Bill
With more than 33 percent of ballots cast in an online poll, Harriet Tubman emerged as the face that people want to see on a new $20 bill.
As Life Slips By: Why Eye Movement Doesn’t Blur the Picture
A molecular “glue” has been discovered that builds the brain connections that keep visual images clear and still, even as objects or your eyes move.
The Psychology of a Horror Movie Fan
Discover the reasons why people say they love horror movies, while others hate them.
How this guide dog helps one blind triathlete chase her Paralympic dream
Paralympic hopeful Amy Dixon describes how her guide dog Elvis has been an integral part of her success.
You can’t talk about millennials without mentioning this
A recent report describes how young, multicultural consumers having the spending power and longevity to influence the U.S. retail industry. Read about it here.
Announcing the Finalists of the 12th Annual Smithsonian.com Photo Contest
See some amazing photographs showing nature at work in this year’s photo contest finalists for Smithsonian.com.
How pickpockets trick your mind
The key to a successful pickpocket isn’t sleight of hand, but knowing about how our brains work, according to neuroscientist Susana Martinez-Conde.
Bombing Survivor Rebekah Gregory On Marathon: ‘I Took My Life Back Today’
Returning to the race that caused her to become an amputee, Boston Marathon bombing victim Rebekah Gregory has crossed the finish line.
Who Was Edmund Pettus?
Just who was Edmund Pettus, and why was the famous bridge in Selma named for him? Find out here.
7 Movies You Didn’t Know Were Based on Shakespeare’s Plays
Shakespeare’s work has influenced countless interpretations on big screen. Take a look at these films based on Shakespearean plays—are you surprised?