energy
An Extremely Powerful and Unexplained Energy Ray Tore Through Our Galaxy
The highly energetic gamma ray was more powerful than any particle accelerator on Earth, hinting at the existence of cosmic super-accelerators called PeVatrons.
Before Texas, Feds Warned of ‘Catastrophic’ Blackouts Due to Fossil Fuel Failures—But Did Nothing
A previously ignored 2018 study called "Surviving a Catastrophic Power Outage" predicted much of what happened in Texas last week with shocking prescience.
Texas Tesla Owners Are Drawing Power From Their Cars During Blackouts
Widespread outages demonstrate both the promises and current shortcomings of the energy transition.
Tiny Nuclear Reactors Are the Future of Energy
New nuclear reactor designs could bring far more widespread use and public acceptance of this powerful form of energy.
Researchers Think Megastructures Can Help Seed Life Throughout the Galaxy
When you think of "conservation," you probably don't imagine blowing up Jupiter and building an energy-harvesting megastructure.
The Moon Is for Sale (Some Restrictions May Apply)
VICE News' "Complexify" series takes you down the rabbit hole, to show you why just about everything is more convoluted than you think.
Why the Future of Nuclear Power Is Tiny and Factory-Made
Governments around the world and companies like Rolls Royce are investing in the next generation of nuclear reactors.
OK, What Is Room-Temperature Superconducting and Will It Change Everything?
It's been 100 years since a Dutch physicist discovered superconductivity, and recent discoveries show we're closer than ever to developing potentially world-changing technology.
Here's Why Your Phone Battery Sucks
Besides the daily frustration of running low, there's a lot more to know about those rechargeable lithium-ion batteries.
How China’s Addiction to Coal Is Ravaging Zimbabwe’s Environment
When wildlife monitors came across a group of Chinese men drilling in Hwange National Park, they assumed they'd wandered into the park by accident.
The End of the Oil Age Is Upon Us
A new report suggests that over the next 30 years, at least 80 percent of the oil industry will be wiped out.
Scientists Turn Normal Red Bricks into Electricity-Storing Supercapacitors
“We have created a new brick that can be incorporated into your house that has the functionality of storing electrical energy.”