Small eddies play a big role in feeding ocean microbes
Swirling waters replenish nutrients in open ocean, a new study finds, and could mitigate some climate change effects.
Department
Earth, Atmospheric and Planetary Sciences
Saturn’s rings and tilt could be the product of an ancient, missing moon
A “grazing encounter” may have smashed the moon to bits to form Saturn’s rings, a new study suggests.
Study: Astronomers risk misinterpreting planetary signals in JWST data
Refining current opacity models will be key to unearthing details of exoplanet properties — and signs of life — in data from the powerful new telescope.
Divorce is more common in albatross couples with shy males, study finds
In a long-studied population of wandering albatrosses, females are less likely to stick with a shy mate.
Using seismology for groundwater management
New research showcases a pilot application using seismometers to monitor groundwater aquifers in California.
Porosity of the moon’s crust reveals bombardment history
The moon sustained twice as many impacts as can be seen on its surface, scientists find.
Kerry Emanuel: A climate scientist and meteorologist in the eye of the storm
With over 200 published papers, multiple books, and countless media appearances, Emanuel’s 41 years at MIT have been marked by influential research into hurricane formation and climate change outreach.
MIT-WHOI Joint Program announces new leadership
Ed Boyle to step down as director; Mick Follows will take over the directorship in July.
New maps of asteroid Psyche reveal an ancient world of metal and rock
The varied surface suggests a dynamic history, which could include metallic eruptions, asteroid-shaking impacts, and a lost rocky mantle.
Study finds natural sources of air pollution exceed air quality guidelines in many regions
MIT research highlights the opportunity to rethink global air quality guidelines.
A passion for science and music
Fieldwork campfire jam sessions and geology lessons helped inspire senior Zoe Levitt to pursue songwriting full time.
Magma beneath tectonic collision zones is wetter than previously thought
New findings may help explain how Earth’s crust forms, the location of ore deposits, and why some volcanoes are more explosive than others.
MIT Climate and Sustainability Consortium announces recipients of inaugural MCSC Seed Awards
Twenty winning projects will link industry member priorities with research groups across campus to develop scalable climate solutions.
What choices does the world need to make to keep global warming below 2 C?
New study reveals multiple pathways for a successful energy transition by 2050.
Empowering people to adapt on the frontlines of climate change
A new platform will unite climate models, impact predictions, random control trial evaluations, and humanitarian services to bring cutting-edge tools to Bangladeshi communities.