Feature

Math

Theorems for Sale

In April, an eBay auction offered math enthusiasts the rare opportunity of linking their names with one of the most famous mathematicians of the 20th century.

Materials Science

Nice Threads

Once researchers figure out how to spin strong fibers out of carbon nanotubes, real-world applications such as long-distance power-transmission cables, lightweight aircraft materials, and electronic textiles become feasible.

Earth

Dead Waters

Coastal dead zones—underwater regions where oxygen concentrations are too low for fish to survive—are mushrooming globally, threatening to transform entire ecosystems.

Humans

Travels with the War Goddess

A botany expedition to Samoa turns out to be as much about the people as about the plants.