Every astronaut learns a great deal about the Earth and its place in the cosmos before going into space. But once they see the Earth from space, everything changes. Watch this short film to learn why.
Tag Archives: Technology
Wife on Mars: A love story
In marrying, a couple may vow “to have and to hold” each other “till death do us part.” But what if what parts spouses is not death, but more than 35 million miles of empty space? Learn how one couple hopes to sustain the bonds between them while one remains on Earth and the other journeys to Mars, never to return.
Decade-Old Rover Adventure Continues on Mars and Earth
The rovers Spirit and Opportunity landed on Mars in 2004. Ten years later, Opportunity is still exploring. Learn about the team behind the rovers, and what they have accomplished.
Fukushima nuclear crisis continues to unfold
An earthquake and tsunami in 2011 caused heavy damage to the Fukushima nuclear power plant in Japan. Three reactors melted down, and radiation escaped into the air and water. Watch a report about how workers are still trying to contain the damage.
Technology firms explore ‘second screen’ opportunity
Software developers are seeking ways to connect people’s tablets and smartphones with what they are watching on television screens. But how useful is it?
Using nature’s genius in architecture
Humans can learn a lot from nature: In this TED talk, learn how architects are imitating natural processes and structures to create more efficient buildings.
James Webb Space Telescope
This NASA site provides an overview and links about ongoing work on the James Webb Space Telescope, expected to be able to view the universe’s early development starting in 2018.
Mars One
In April 2013, Mars One launched its Astronaut Selection Program, taking the foundation one step closer to its eventual goal of establishing a human settlement on Mars. Explore the official Mars One site to learn more about the organization, its mission, and the risks and challenges involved in such a historic undertaking.
How It Works: Putting Humans in Suspended Animation
Though it may sound like science fiction, the use of “suspended animation” (emergency preservation and resuscitation) to help save human lives will begin in trial form in the very near future. Read the article and watch the short video that follows, in which Dr. Sam Tisherman answers frequently asked questions about the procedure.
The Lesson of the Power Loom
In this article, technology and innovation researcher James Bessen discusses how the inventions of the Industrial Revolution may influence the innovations of today.
500-year-old mystery: Wreck off Haiti may be Columbus’ flagship Santa Maria
A shipwreck found off the coast of Haiti may be the Santa Maria, one of the three ships Christopher Columbus used to sail across the Atlantic in 1492. Learn about how the importance of the Santa Maria, and why one explorer thinks the wreck is Columbus’s long-lost ship.
Aaahh! The world’s scariest roller coasters
Do you enjoy the feeling of being frightened? If you do, then you may be a fan of roller coasters. Learn about some of the scariest roller coasters in the world, and watch videos of what the rides are like.
28 Years Ago, Challenger Shuttle Disaster Gave NASA Painful Lesson
In this opinion piece, Hugh Harris, former director of the NASA John F. Kennedy Space Center Public Affairs Office, shares his experiences and thoughts on the United States Space Program.
3D movie reveals hidden dimensions of universe
With advances in digital and microscopic imagery, a new film entitled “Mysteries of the Unseen World” is showing viewers everyday items from perspectives their eyes would never allow them to see. Watch this interview with Louie Schwartzberg, the film’s director, to learn more.
A Modern-Day Tale of Romeo and Juliet
A couple arrested in Yemen have sparked a major Facebook campaign. Read this article to find out about this modern-day Romeo and Juliet.
The Quest to End the Flu
Every year, thousands of people die from the flu. However, the methods used to make flu vaccines are slow. Read this article to find out about the researchers who are on a quest to find new, faster ways to make vaccines.
Optimism May Be Hard-Wired into the Brain
Researchers have discovered that our brains are much better at remembering positive events than negative ones. How does optimism play a role in survival? Read this article to find out more.
We Don’t Have to Choose Between Fossil Fuels and Green Energy
Does America’s energy future depend on fossil fuels, such as oil and gas, or alternative energy, such as solar and wind power? According to author Michael Levi, Americans should embrace both forms of energy. Read this article to find out how Americans can find common ground on this important issue.
Texting May Be Taking a Toll
Thumb cramps, sleeplessness, distractions, falling grades. . . . Is it possible that texting teens are too busy making their voices heard? Read this article to discover what some experts suspect. It may be time to turn off that phone and get some rest.
Bioluminescent Art: Beautiful Bacteria Glow in the Dark
Changes that happen in nature can be a source of surprising art. In this article, Anna Norris discusses how microbiology and visual design merge to create a new art form.