50 Years Ago

Archaeology

50 years ago, Stonehenge’s purpose mystified scientists. It still does

In 1972, scientists thought Stonehenge may have been a calendar. Today, we still don’t know its purpose, but we have gained insight on its origin.

Earth

50 years ago, scientists found a new way to clean up oil spills

In the 1970s, researchers added chemicals to the list of oil spill cleanup methods. Soon, they may add microbes.

Earth

50 years ago, scientists dug into Pangaea’s past lives

In 1972, scientists wondered whether Pangaea was Earth’s only supercontinent. Fifty years later, we know it wasn’t the first and it won’t be the last.

Particle Physics

50 years ago, physicists got a whiff of what glues together protons

In 1972, particle smashups hinted at the gluon, which we now know not only holds together the innards of the proton, but also makes up more than a third of its mass.

Tech

50 years ago, genes eluded electron microscopes

In the 1970s, scientists dreamed of seeing genes under the microscope. Fifty years later, powerful new tools are helping to make that dream come true.

Health & Medicine

50 years ago, scientists hoped freezing donor organs would boost transplants

In the 1970s, biologists hoped to freeze organs so more could last long enough to be transplanted. Scientists are now starting to manage this feat.

Paleontology

50 years ago, the dinosaurs’ demise was still a mystery 

In 1972, scientists blamed dinosaur biology for the reptiles’ demise. Years later, researchers ID’d the real killer: an apocalyptic asteroid.

Earth

50 years ago, a new theory of Earth’s core began solidifying

In 1972, scientists proposed that Earth’s core formed as the planet came together. Fifty years later, that theory is generally accepted, though many mysteries about the core remain.

Animals

50 years ago, eels’ navigation skills electrified scientists

Excerpt from the June 24, 1972 issue of Science News

Space

50 years ago, the United States and Soviet Union joined forces for science

In 1972, U.S. and Soviet leaders agreed to work together on science. Now, Russia’s war in Ukraine is straining that decades-long partnership.

Space

50 years ago, scientists had hints of a planet beyond Pluto

In 1972, calculations from Halley’s comet offered evidence of another planet. Today’s astronomers are still searching for a Planet Nine.

Health & Medicine

50 years ago, scientists were seeking the cause of psoriasis

In the 1970s, scientists found a link between a chemical messenger and psoriasis, a complex inflammatory skin disorder.