Latest about Planet Earth
Nuclear fusion could be the clean energy of the future — but these 'tough' challenges stand in the way
Even once researchers can reliably get more power out of a fusion reaction than they put in, they'll still need to overcome engineering challenges to scale up fusion energy.
Snowstorms, fire and Yellowstone's next eruption
Science news this week Jan 11, 2025: Our weekly roundup of the latest science in the news, as well as a few fascinating articles to keep you entertained over the weekend.
Ferns can evolve 'backward,' scientists discover
Evolution is often depicted as a steady forward march from simple to complex forms. But new research shows that certain ferns can evolve ‘backward.’
Stark 'drought' maps reveal just why wildfires have blazed through Los Angeles
The state is seeing a sharp water divide this year, with lots of rain in the north while the south has stayed dry. A hydrologist explains what’s happening.
2024 was the hottest year on record, and the 1st to breach the 1.5 C global warming limit, data reveals
Scientists have warned that the Paris Agreement to limit global warming will likely be breached as data reveals 2024 was the hottest year in human history.
Antarctica 'pyramid': The strangely symmetrical mountain that sparked a major alien conspiracy theory
Antarctica is home to a peak shaped like a perfect pyramid — but contrary to what conspiracy theorists say, the mountain's four symmetrical faces were forged through natural processes.
Deforestation: Facts about the widespread destruction of Earth's forests
Fact file Deforestation can include clearing the land for farming or livestock, or using the timber for fuel, construction or manufacturing.
We finally know where the Yellowstone volcano will erupt next
A detailed look at Yellowstone's magma storage system finds that only one region is likely to host liquid magma in the long term.
