Radio Signals, SETI

Are we alone in the universe? What six decades of the search for extraterrestrial intelligence can teach us about this profound and eternal question.

60 Years of SETI: The Search for Alien Life in the Cosmic Haystack

This artist’s concept shows exoplanet Kepler-1649c orbiting around its host red dwarf star. The exoplanet is in its star’s habitable zone — the distance where liquid water could exist on the planet’s surface. After searching for signs of alien life for nearly 60 years, some astronomers wonder whether it’s really out there. (Credit: NASA/Ames Research Center/Daniel Rutter

kepler image opener

Life beyond might not exist — or we just don't know how to find it. 

The Lonely Universe: Is Life on Earth Just a Lucky Fluke?

Peace of Mind 1

Deep down, many perfectionists feel like phonies. Their lofty, self-imposed standards also isolates them from others. A recovering perfectionist shares how they became free. 

In the Shadows of Perfectionism: Impostor Syndrome

A sneak peek at Hoberman’s latest prototype: a sphere that transforms shape, size and color by turning itself inside out. (Credit: Yana Paskova)

Hoberman

From medicine to space travel, Chuck Hoberman's shape-shifting is expanding scientific research.

Shapeshifting Materials Could Transform Our World Inside Out

Bats

Robots can use echoes to navigate, but the cacophony of sound is tough to sift through. What can they learn from bats?

The Secrets of Bat Echolocation Could Help Robots Navigate With Sound

talk to the hand

We’re more than just opposable thumbs — our hands gave us tools, new skills and better communication.

Nature's Masterpiece: How Evolution Gave Us Our Human Hands

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A 50-year-old man's nausea and vomiting just wouldn't stop. But the culprit behind his distress came as a surprise: cannabis hyperemesis syndrome.

If Marijuana Gives You an Upset Stomach, You're Not Alone

moon picture - NASA images

Are we looking for life in the wrong places, in the wrong way? Would we recognize the signs? Why out-there ideas may point the way to E.T.

Why Haven’t We Found Alien Life? Blame Our Closed Minds

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Are you looking for a smart read as you cozy up for the winter months? Check out these editor's picks. 

Page-Turning Science Books: Medieval Science, Neanderthals, and a Handbook for Humankind

whiskey - shutterstock

It’s all about that barrel.

What Gives Your Favorite Whiskey Its Unique Flavor? 

sphere

We may never know. 

Where Is the Edge of the Universe?

vaccine - december - shutterstock

Dozens of vaccines are in the works, with many already in clinical trials. Experts say that an effective vaccine is the safest way to reach herd immunity.

Why a COVID-19 Vaccine Is Key For Returning to Normalcy

In India, human-made ice replaces the glaciers that used to provide villages with water. (Credit: Naveen Macro/Shutterstock)

glaciers india shutterstock

These huge masses of ice flow like rivers, and one once hid a Cold War-era city. 

Discover Magazine

December, 2020