News

  1. Space

    Crab nebula outbursts shock astronomers

    Short-lived gamma-ray flares recently recorded from the Crab nebula supernova remnant, known for its steady emissions, are perplexing researchers and forcing them to consider new models for particle acceleration.

    By Ron Cowen
  2. Space

    Beast at galaxy core sits, lacking spin

    New observations suggest that the Milky Way's central black hole rotates slowly or not at all, reinforcing its image as a gentle gravitational giant.

    By Ron Cowen
  3. Psychology

    Connected at church, happy with life

    People who feel best about their lives combine religious identity with congregational friendships, a survey finds.

    By Bruce Bower
  4. Life

    Friendly fire blamed in some H1N1 deaths

    A poorly targeted immune response to the 2009 pandemic flu virus caused young adults and the middle-aged to suffer more than usual.