Physics
We summarize the week's scientific breakthroughs every Thursday.
- Archaeology
Pin-drop test pops Greek amphitheater’s acoustic claims
Analysis of an ancient Greek amphitheater’s ability to carry sounds reveals overblown tour guide claims.
- Science & Society
Dive deep to discover unexpected connections
Readers often praise Science News for its brevity. But some ideas need more space, writes acting editor in chief Elizabeth Quill.
- Planetary Science
Readers intrigued by Mars’ far-out birth
Readers sent feedback on the Red Planet's formation, jumping genes and more
- Quantum Physics
A quarter century ago, the qubit was born
The invention of the qubit a quarter century ago enabled the quantum information revolution.
- Physics
50 years ago, a millionth of a degree above absolute zero seemed cold
Today, scientists have reached temperatures less than a billionth of a degree above absolute zero.
- Quantum Physics
Quantum computers are about to get real
Qubit-based machines are gearing up to solve problems that are out of reach for even the most powerful supercomputers.
- Physics
Here’s why your wheelie suitcase wobbles
Physicists explain why roller suitcases rock back and forth as you dash through the terminal.
- Astronomy
Satellite trio will hunt gravitational waves from space
The European Space Agency has green-lighted the Laser Interferometer Space Antenna, expected to launch in 2034.
- Quantum Physics
Quantum satellite shatters entanglement record
A satellite sent entangled particles to two Chinese cities 1,200 kilometers apart.
- Physics
Water circling a drain provides insight into black holes
Water waves scattering off a vortex can exhibit rotational superradiance, an effect predicted to appear in black holes.
- Physics
Faux particles commit physics faux pas
Quasiparticles present in a solid material break the rules of particle physics.
- Physics
Swift kick from a supernova could knock a black hole askew
An exploding star may have tilted the spin of one of LIGO’s black holes.
