Earth and atmospheric sciences

Coordinated stargazingMIT astronomer leads the first team to study a Kuiper Belt object during a stellar occultation.

3 Questions: Noelle Selin on curbing mercuryAs U.N. negotiations begin this week on a global mercury treaty, an MIT atmospheric scientist explains the challenges ahead.

3 Questions: John Marshall on the Gulf of Mexico oil spillAn MIT oceanographer discusses why ‘we have never had a spill like this’ — and what that means for cleanup efforts.

A look back in timeBy linking the odd geometry of bacterial growths to photosynthesis, researchers may have a new way to study Earth’s oldest fossils.

Genes as fossilsMIT researchers discover the DNA responsible for creating fossil-like molecules found in ancient rocks.

New phenomenon found in internal wavesMIT team shows that waves inside oceans, air and stars are filtered and reflected by layers.

EAPS launches Global Habitat Longevity AwardMIT community members encouraged to submit nominations; entries due by May 21

Volcanic VenusNew research highlights recent volcanic activity on Venus, indicating that Earth’s sister planet is alive — geologically speaking

Explained: Dynamo theoryRecent discoveries raise questions about how small planets can have self-sustaining magnetic fields

Mapping VenusNew analysis supports theory that Venus’ surface evolved through extreme makeover, not plate tectonics

Weather in a TankA curriculum built around a rotating-tank experiment could improve weather and climate education

Wind resistanceMIT analysis suggests generating electricity from large-scale wind farms could influence climate — and not necessarily in the desired way.

Hurricanes’ effects on ocean temperature revisitedMixing of ocean layers by tropical cyclones may have less effect on climate than previously thought, new research reveals.

Ecological balancing actPhytoplankton diversity depends on balance between competition and the ocean’s physical dynamics, new research suggests

Ancient hurricanesIntense hurricane activity millions of years ago may have caused and sustained warmer climate conditions, new research suggests

3 Questions: Bradford Hager on Haiti’s coming quakesThe MIT geophysicist expects more earthquakes could hit the region relatively soon.

Extreme makeovers in spaceResearch suggesting that near-Earth encounters can ‘shake’ asteroids opens the door to a new field: asteroid seismology

Figuring out where to put the carbonIf we plan to keep using fossil fuels, we need to figure out how to sequester the resulting carbon dioxide. New tools from MIT could help evaluate where to do it — and how to keep it contained.

A new day dawned fastRecovery from marine mass extinction happened much faster than thought, high-resolution research finds

3 questions: Ben Weiss discusses what a wet moon might meanThe planetary scientist explores the implications of the recent discovery of water on the lunar surface.

In Profile: Maria ZuberPlanetary scientist is driven by the thrill of exploring uncharted territory

Hidden waves pack a big punchThomas Peacock sheds light on an odd but powerful phenomenon of sea and sky

Oddball stars explainedNew observations solve longstanding mystery of tipped rotation. In addition to shedding light on how binary stars form, the explanation knocks down a possible challenge to Einstein's theory of relativity.

Concentrating emissionsAhmed Ghoniem of mechanical engineering leads an MIT effort to make coal plants cleaner by using a pressurized combustion system to capture carbon dioxide.

A hard rain's gonna fallClimate change will yield more extreme rainfall, according to a new analysis.

Jupiter, solar system's 'big bully,' takes a punchApparent strike by comet highlights planet's benefit to Earth, MIT professor says

MIT groups see sun darkenFaculty-led groups in Asia watched century's longest solar eclipse

What makes a rolling landscape roll?New study explains evenly spaced ridges and valleys; could help identify signs of life on other planets.