The Mysterious Origin of Oolitic Sand

New evidence is emerging for the odd hypothesis that this strange, egg-shaped sand is built by microbes.

Aug 23, 2018 | 450 words, about 2 minutes

How Warming Could Speed up the Sea

As the planet warmed at the end of the last ice age, the abyssal Pacific circulation kicked into high gear.

Aug 16, 2018 | 850 words, about 4 minutes

Is a Chemical Used in MRIs a Threat to Marine Ecosystems?

Gadolinium, a rare earth element important for medical testing, has found its way into coastal waters.

Jun 14, 2018 | 550 words, about 2 minutes

Soon Your Phone May Be Powered by Ship Soot

Researchers found a way to turn carbon pollution into graphite, a component widely used in batteries.

May 17, 2018 | 550 words, about 2 minutes

A Scheme to End the World’s Worst Acid Trip

This geoengineering idea is potentially risky and largely untested, but it does work—theoretically.

Mar 28, 2018 | 850 words, about 4 minutes

When It Comes to Climate Change, the Ocean Never Forgets

Climate scientists are investigating the extent to which warming, acidification, and other effects can be undone.

Mar 15, 2018 | 500 words, about 2 minutes

Diet of the Ancient Mariner

An unprecedented archaeology experiment is putting historical shipboard food and drink to the test.

Mar 14, 2018 | 700 words, about 3 minutes

The Sky Is Falling

A pioneering voyage into the heart of a wildfire ash storm.

Feb 26, 2018 | 650 words, about 3 minutes