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A Brief History of the International Geophysical Year
The "year" lasted 18 months.
SCIENCE
How a Squishy Worm Robot Could Improve Colonoscopies
The squirming device is softer and safer than traditional technology.
Why Is Yawning Contagious?
A new study may challenge this long-held belief.
How Eclipse Chasers Are Putting a Small Kentucky Town on the Map
The most anticipated eclipse in American history is coming this summer. At the heart of it is Hopkinsville, Kentucky, which anticipates 100,000 visitors. Mental Floss takes a look behind the small town's preparations—and a deep dive into the passionate su
13 Fundamental Facts About the Anus
3. Once a year, have a professional look at it.
Drumming Cockatoos Keep the Beat Like Human Musicians
The ladies love drummers.
9 Powerful Facts About Derechos
They make even the most severe thunderstorms look like child's play.
Harry Potter Has Created a Huge Black Market for Owls in Indonesia
In the decades since the first movie came out, the demand for black-market owls in Indonesia has multiplied.
Yes, Scientists, the Sex of Your Animal Subjects Affects Your Results
Ignoring huge variables like sex is not the best way to get valid data.
Working Nights Could Keep Your Body from Healing
Scientists say sleeping during the day and working at night could block necessary regeneration of damaged DNA.
Bright Street Lights Can Be Bad for Your Health, Doctors Say
LED street lights are good for the environment, but not so much for people's health, the American Medical Association said in a new policy statement.
How Experts Say We Should Stop a 'Zombie' Infection: Kill It With Fire
"I really don’t think it’s that crazy."
What’s the Difference Between “Mostly Sunny” and “Partly Cloudy”?
A question from Marcus in Louisville.
Seagulls Eat Garbage in Landfills and Then Poop Pollution Into Our Waters
What goes around comes around.
Parkinson’s Disease Has an Autoimmune Component, Study Finds
A new study links Parkinson’s to the body’s immune response to the accumulation of a certain protein.
What is the Main Function of Blood?
What doesn't blood do might be the better question.
Why We Keep Falling for Fake News
The bots are only partly to blame.
Watch Richard Feynman Explain Fire
"Fire is stored sunshine."
11 Booming Facts About Thunderstorms
Turns out they're as fascinating to study as they are to watch.
A Partner's Touch Could Ease Our Pain
A new study finds that a couple’s physiological connection can be interrupted by pain but restored by touch.
10 Fascinating Facts About the La Brea Tar Pits
There’s a gooey time capsule in the heart of Los Angeles, left over from an era when saber-toothed cats, dire wolves, camels, and giant sloths prowled southern California.
Why Does Humid Weather Make Hair Frizzy?
Blame chemistry.