Earth and atmospheric sciences

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.

Planet found in tilted orbit around distant starOdd discovery may help refine theories about how planets, solar systems form

MIT team solves longstanding volcanic mystery

Climate change odds much worse than thoughtNew analysis shows warming could be double previous estimates

Summit explores global sustainabilityNew MIT student group hosts premier event