The US Hitches Its Final Ride to Space From Russia—for Now
Thursday’s launch to the space station will mark the end of America’s dependence on Russia for human spaceflight, but NASA may buy more seats on Soyuz rockets.
After 50 Years of Effort, Researchers Made Silicon Emit Light
We’re approaching the speed limit for electronic computer chips. If we want to go faster, we’ll need data-carrying photons—and some tiny lasers.
The Power Plant of the Future Is Right in Your Home
If we want more renewable energy, our grids will have to manage themselves. A small experiment in Colorado is lighting the way.
Charge a Car Battery in 5 Minutes? That’s the Plan
Several companies have built lithium-ion batteries that can fully charge in a matter of minutes. Their next goal: getting these into electric vehicles.
SpaceX Competitor OneWeb Is Reportedly Bankrupt
The company planned to put 650 internet satellites into orbit. But it only managed to launch 74 before its coffers ran dry, according to a report out today.
America’s Electricity is Safe From the Coronavirus—for Now
Utilities and grid operators are well-prepared to handle the pandemic, but a second wave of the virus later this year could be disastrous.
Want Electric Ships? Build a Better Battery
Large container ships are a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, but electrifying the world’s fleet faces steep technological hurdles.
Should Earthlings Chase ‘Oumuamua Into Interstellar Space?
A mission to the mysterious asteroid is technically feasible, but it might not be the best way to study interstellar objects.
The Factory Where They Engineer Massive Water Art Pieces
WET, a preeminent water design firm, uses supercomputers and other cutting-edge technology to build the most iconic fountains and water features in the world.
SETI@Home Is Over. But the Search for Alien Life Continues
Although the public part of the worldwide experiment is coming to an end this month, the world’s greatest extraterrestrial hunt is far from finished.