Planet Earth
Earth is one big spinning mystery in a constant state of change. With more than 4.5 billion years of history locked inside a ball of molten rock and iron, our planet is made up of a vast array of geological wonders, carved by the oceans, shaped by the shifting plates beneath our feet and sculpted by weather across the surface. Our team of expert science writers and editors are here to reveal our planet’s secrets — from the deepest depths of the ocean to the very edge of space — keeping you up to date with the latest discoveries with planet Earth news, articles and features.
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Latest about Planet Earth
Florida waters now 'bona fide bathtub conditions' as heat dome engulfs state
By Sascha Pare published
The unprecedented water temperatures — reaching up to 95 degrees Fahrenheit in some places — could intensify storms and hurricanes in the Sunshine State.
Hidden 36 million-year-long cycles may fuel bursts of life on Earth, ancient rocks reveal
By Kiley Price published
As tectonic plates clash and pull apart, sea levels change. This process has shaped marine biodiversity over time, a new study suggests.
Were Neanderthals really killed off by Campi Flegrei, Europe's awakening 'supervolcano'?
By Cameron Duke published
The volcano beneath Italy erupted 40,000 years ago and had catastrophic impact on Earth's climate — around the same time that the Neanderthals began their slow march to extinction.
Indian Ocean gravity hole was caused by extinct ancient sea, scientists say
By Ben Turner published
Scientists have puzzled over the origins of a gravity hole in the Indian Ocean for years. Now, researchers think the sunken floor of an extinct ocean could be the cause.
Did the Cambrian explosion really happen?
By Amanda Heidt published
Something unique does seem to have taken place during this time when so many animal groups first appeared, but it's not an open-and-shut case.
Global temperatures have been the hottest on record for 3 days in a row
By Kiley Price published
The world's average temperature was the hottest on record from July 3 to July 5, 2023. Climate change and El Niño are to blame, scientists say.
Swirls of liquid iron may be trapped inside Earth's 'solid' core
By Stephanie Pappas published
Though Earth's innermost core is solid, new research suggests that it hosts a lot of variation.
Watch thousands of lightning bolts crackle over Europe in stunning new satellite video
By Tereza Pultarova published
Stunning first videos from a new space-borne instrument designed to improve the monitoring of thunderstorms show the crackle of lightning over Europe, Africa and the Atlantic Ocean.
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