Science | Smithsonian

Scientists Are About to Redefine the Kilogram

After more than 100 years of defining the kilogram according to a metal artifact, humanity is preparing to change the unit based on a constant of nature

Astronomers Find Second-Closest Known Exoplanet

The planet, a frozen Super-Earth, orbits Bernard's Star about six light-years away.

World’s Oldest-Known Figurative Paintings Found

Dated to at least 40,000 years old, the depiction of a cattle-like animal has striking similarities to ancient rock art found in other parts of the world

The Science of Good Chocolate

Meet the sensory scientist who is decoding the terroir of chocolate—and working to safeguard the cacao plant that gives us the sweet dark treat

The Science Behind Decorative Gourd Season

Gourds are the runts of their family of fruits, too tough and bitter to eat, but they remain one of the most popular crops of fall

The Plight of the Right Whale

With dwindling numbers due to snags in lobster traps and collisions with ships, the right whale is looking for a way to make a comeback

Introducing Endangered Species to Our Cities

Some ecologists believe our best chance to preserve biodiversity is to introduce non-native species to cities—but others warn of unintended consequences

Scientists Are About to Redefine the Kilogram — Scientists Are About to Redefine the Kilogram

After more than 100 years of defining the kilogram according to a metal artifact, humanity is preparing to change the unit based on a constant of nature

Astronomers Find Second-Closest Known Exoplanet — Astronomers Find Second-Closest Known Exoplanet

The planet, a frozen Super-Earth, orbits Bernard's Star about six light-years away.

World’s Oldest-Known Figurative Paintings Found — World’s Oldest-Known Figurative Paintings Found

Dated to at least 40,000 years old, the depiction of a cattle-like animal has striking similarities to ancient rock art found in other parts of the world

The Science of Good Chocolate — The Science of Good Chocolate

Meet the sensory scientist who is decoding the terroir of chocolate—and working to safeguard the cacao plant that gives us the sweet dark treat

The Science Behind Decorative Gourd Season — The Science Behind Decorative Gourd Season

Gourds are the runts of their family of fruits, too tough and bitter to eat, but they remain one of the most popular crops of fall

The Plight of the Right Whale — The Plight of the Right Whale

With dwindling numbers due to snags in lobster traps and collisions with ships, the right whale is looking for a way to make a comeback

Introducing Endangered Species to Our Cities — Introducing Endangered Species to Our Cities

Some ecologists believe our best chance to preserve biodiversity is to introduce non-native species to cities—but others warn of unintended consequences

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Scientists Are About to Redefine the Kilogram and Shake Up Our System of Measures

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