Guest Thinkers — September 1, 2010

Chaiten Eruption enters second month

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If you needed any evidence that Chaiten is still erupting quite vigorously, just check out the MODIS image taken on 5/31 (above). The eruptive column is still delivering ash across southern Chile, over the Andes and into Argentina. This eruption just keeps on impressing me with its duration and magnitude – this is one for the ages (well, human ages).

A weekly newsletter featuring the biggest ideas from the smartest people

Nasa's nasa spacecraft observing annular eclipse.

Starts With A Bang

October 14, 2023’s annular eclipse will have huge consequences 6 months later

An annular eclipse is coming to Earth on October 14, 2023. Six months later, a total solar eclipse is headed our way. Here’s the reason why.

Starts With A Bang

Yes, removing groundwater is changing Earth’s tilt

Despite the enormous mass of the Earth, simply depleting our groundwater is changing our axial tilt. Simple Newtonian physics explains why.

Starts With A Bang

Mt. Vesuvius buried Pompeii, but it incinerated the people of Herculaneum. Here’s how

Nearly 2000 years ago, Mt. Vesuvius erupted, burying Pompeii but incinerating Herculaneum. The most lethal volcanic phenomenon is at fault.

Strange Maps

What’s better than maps or stamps? Maps on stamps!

When maps meet stamps, you get a love child called “cartophilately.”

The Past

10 of the most legendary rulers from ancient history

From Ramses II to Alexander the Great, these leaders helped shaped the world we know today.

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Guest Thinkers

Back from east coast, time to play catch-up

I’ve made it back from my trip to Washington DC. The Smithsonian Institution is quite a fun place to visit, especially if rocks are your ilk. Be sure to check […]