Science

Eclipse enthusiasts wearing protective glasses view a partial eclipse from Beckman Lawn at Caltech in Pasadena, Calif., on Aug. 21, 2017. Another solar eclipse is just weeks away.

The eclipse gives astronomy clubs an opportunity to shine

7:00am March 16, 2024

by Scott Neuman

From Texas to Maine, they're teaching people how to enjoy the spectacle safely. Some will hand out glasses or answer questions at events. Others plan to take their own advice — and get outta town.

This close-up of the Verona astrolabe shows Arabic and Hebrew markings.

This medieval astrolabe has both Arabic and Hebrew markings. Here's what it means

5:00am March 16, 2024

by Ari Daniel

This discovery sheds new light on the rich history of scholarship and intellectual exchange between Muslims, Jews and Christians during a time of Muslim rule in medieval Spain.

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If the FDA approves it, a new blood test could become another screening option for colorectal cancer.

A simple blood test can detect colorectal cancer early, study finds

7:14pm March 14, 2024

by Allison Aubrey

At a time when colorectal cancer is rising, researchers say a blood test can detect 83% of people with the disease. If the FDA approves it the test would be another screening tool for early detection.

Daniel Lewis explored the roles of different trees play his new book, 'Twelve Trees'

6:23pm March 14, 2024

NPR's Ari Shapiro talks with writer Daniel Lewis about his new book, Twelve Trees, which zeroes in on a different tree species in each chapter.

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The SpaceX Starship spacecraft lifts off from Starbase in Boca Chica, Texas, on Thursday.

Third time's the charm: SpaceX's massive Starship reaches space

10:56am March 14, 2024

by Geoff Brumfiel

SpaceX has successfully conducted a test launch of its massive Starship rocket in a major success for company, which saw the rocket explode in two previous test flights

Science

How a woman in science is using her background to inspire girls to get into STEM

5:14am March 14, 2024

by Adam Bearne

Despite the cancellation of her Netflix show Emily's Wonder Lab, MIT engineer-turned-TV host Emily Calandrelli is still encouraging children to explore the amazing world of science.

Students finish their lunch at Lowell Elementary School in Albuquerque, N.M., on Aug. 22, 2023. A legislative proposal would ban six artificial food dyes in California schools.

Here are the concerns with artificial food dyes, as California weighs a ban in schools

5:01am March 14, 2024

by Joe Hernandez

Six artificial food dyes and titanium dioxide would be banned in schools under a proposal in the state legislature. Critics say there isn't enough evidence to prove they're a health risk.

The SpaceX Starship is seen as it stands on the launch pad ahead of its third flight test from Starbase in Boca Chica, Texas on March 12, 2024.

Elon Musk's giant Starship rocket is launching again. Here's what to expect

8:34pm March 13, 2024

by Geoff Brumfiel

The rocket is the largest ever built. It has yet to complete a full test flight, but the third time might be the charm.

A medieval object with Arabic and Hebrew writings shows the collaboration of its time

5:58pm March 13, 2024

by Ari Daniel

Scientists identified an 11th-century astrolabe with Arabic inscriptions and Hebrew writings, highlighting a period when Muslims ruled in present-day Spain and scholarship and idea-sharing flourished.

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People view a total solar eclipse at from the observatory at Rockefeller Center in New York City on Aug. 21, 2017.

Everything you need to know about solar eclipse glasses before April 8

4:55pm March 13, 2024

by Joe Hernandez

From why you need them to how to check if they're legit, here's a guide to eclipse glasses so you can view next month's rare total solar eclipse safely.