Geologists discover the first evidence of 4.5-billion-year-old “proto Earth”
Materials from ancient rocks could reveal conditions in the early solar system that shaped the early Earth and other planets.
The first animals on Earth may have been sea sponges, study suggests
MIT researchers traced chemical fossils in ancient rocks to the ancestors of modern-day demosponges.
MIT geologists discover where energy goes during an earthquake
Based on mini “lab-quakes” in a controlled setting, the findings could help researchers assess the vulnerability of quake-prone regions.
Collaborating with the force of nature
Ongoing research by three architecture faculty aims to yield structures that protect communities from the devastation of volcanic eruptions.
Island rivers carve passageways through coral reefs
Research shows these channels allow seawater and nutrients to flow in and out, helping to maintain reef health over millions of years.
Asteroid grains shed light on the outer solar system’s origins
A weak magnetic field likely pulled matter inward to form the outer planetary bodies, from Jupiter to Neptune.
Mars’ missing atmosphere could be hiding in plain sight
A new study shows Mars’ early thick atmosphere could be locked up in the planet’s clay surface.
Q&A: Helping young readers explore curiosity about rocks through discovery and play
“All the Rocks We Love” is a new picture book by MIT Professor Taylor Perron and Lisa Varchol Perron.
Study: Titan’s lakes may be shaped by waves
MIT researchers find wave activity on Saturn’s largest moon may be strong enough to erode the coastlines of lakes and seas.
Study: Heavy snowfall and rain may contribute to some earthquakes
The results suggest that climate may influence seismic activity.
Geologists discover rocks with the oldest evidence yet of Earth’s magnetic field
The 3.7 billion-year-old rocks may extend the magnetic field’s age by 200 million years.
Extracting hydrogen from rocks
Iwnetim Abate aims to stimulate natural hydrogen production underground, potentially unearthing a new path to a cheap, carbon-free energy source.
Study determines the original orientations of rocks drilled on Mars
The “oriented” samples, the first of their kind from any planet, could shed light on Mars’ ancient magnetic field.
Unlocking history with geology and genetics
PhD student Fatima Husain investigates the co-evolution of life and Earth and works to communicate science to the public.
Q&A: What sets the recent Japan earthquake apart from others?
Geophysicist William Frank discusses how a recent earthquake in Japan relates to an earthquake swarm in the region.