From hype to hyperloop
Vacuum-based transport systems could clear the way for faster, cheaper travel – or so proponents claim. Jon Cartwright takes a closer look
When goofing off is good
Particle physicist Daniel Whiteson describes his collaboration with the artistic brains behind PHD Comics
A shared journey of discovery
Benjamin Skuse investigates the sibling-scientists relationship to see if having a brother or sister who is also a researcher can help or hinder your career
Instrumentation at the extremes
Designing equipment that can survive in the harshest reaches of the solar system is a challenge. Keith Cooper explores how instrument developers do it
On the hunt for helium
Most sources of helium are discovered by accident, but geoscientists are developing new ways to find this incredibly useful element
Spying on volcanoes
Matthew Watson explains how drones are helping scientists to map and monitor active volcanoes – work that could save human lives
Fighting fire with fire
Stephen Ornes on the many open questions when it comes to the physics of wildfires
Just beyond our fingertips
An optical glucose sensor would be a boon for millions of people with diabetes. So why hasn’t someone built one yet? Kate Bechtel discusses the factors standing in the way
3D printing goes micro
Ultrashort laser pulses could make it possible to manufacture micron-scale structures using additive manufacturing
The power of the blackboard
Philip Ball on why we physicists still love our blackboards