California’s worst drought in 1,200 years in pictures
Source: BBC
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 .
Science & Nature
As Life Slips By: Why Eye Movement Doesn’t Blur the Picture
Source: ScienceNewsline
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
Source: Pacific Standard
Discover the reasons why people say they love horror movies, while others hate them.
Announcing the Finalists of the 12th Annual Smithsonian.com Photo Contest
Source: The Guardian
See some amazing photographs showing nature at work in this year’s photo contest finalists for Smithsonian.com.
How pickpockets trick your mind
Source: BBC
The key to a successful pickpocket isn’t sleight of hand, but knowing about how our brains work, according to neuroscientist Susana Martinez-Conde.
Hug a tree – the evidence shows it really will make you feel better
Source: The Conversation
Researchers look into the effects that a growing disconnect from nature may have.
Does Success Breed Success?
Source: Psychology Today
In a 2014 study, a sociology research team at the State University of New York at Stony Brook found that one initial success leads to more success in the future.
Thoreau’s Walden, Present at the Creation
Source: NPR
Listen to the radio piece to learn what inspired Thoreau to live at Walden Pond and what he experienced while he was there.
Captured: The moment photosynthesis changed the world
Source: NewScientist
Humans can’t survive without oxygen, but just how did earth’s atmosphere wind up with the perfect amount of oxygen for us in the first place? Here’s a look at the change that made our existence possible.
Bats Are: Important
Source: Bat Conservation International
Over 1000 species of bats are found in nearly every part of the world, but how much do you know about them? Learn about the important roles bats play in their ecosystems at this site from a nonprofit organization dedicated to conserving the bat population.