Humanity’s first recorded kiss was earlier than we thought
Ever wondered when humans started kissing for the first time? New research into ancient clay tablets extends the history of kissing by roughly 1,000 years, writes the Smithsonian's Brian Handwerk.
An Icelandic town goes all out to save baby puffins
Smithsonian Magazine takes us to the Icelandic island of Heimaey, home to the world's largest colony of Atlantic puffins. There, we meet a group of volunteers called the "Puffling Patrol."
This shape-shifting robot can liquefy itself and reform
Researchers have created a tiny robot that can melt and reform. The technology — which can be used to repair circuits and may one day be used in medicine — was inspired by the sea cucumber.
A brief history of Christmas markets
A fascinating piece from Smithsonian Magazine on the origins of the outdoor Christmas market and other holiday traditions. Spoiler! It’s mainly a German thing.
Why do some humans love chilli peppers?
Are you a fan of spicy food? 🌶 In this article we hear about the relationship between culture and our senses, discovering how they shape each other and why some people are so drawn to fiery flavors.
Scientists are finding fungi in cancerous tumors
One person can host around 39 trillion microorganisms on and in their body. In this piece, we hear about research that found fungi live in cancerous tumors. Discover more in this Smithsonian article.
The world’s whitest paint may soon help cool airplanes and spacecraft
We have all felt the impact of global warming. A group of researchers have developed an 'ultra-white' paint, which can be used to cool the exteriors of airplanes, cars, trains and even spacecraft.
Was King Arthur a real person?
A writer for Smithsonian Magazine takes us on a vivid trip to southwest England on a quest to discover whether there is any truth to the tales of Camelot and the Knights of the Round Table.
Is Seaweed the Next Big Alternative to Meat?
Read this Smithsonian piece to find out if seaweed-based fake meat can give existing alternative meats a run for their money
How Exercise Boosts the Brain and Improves Mental Health
This article from Smithsonian Magazine describes how exercise can help combat a range of mental health issues.
Plastic Waste Can Be Transformed Into Vanilla Flavoring
Bird Migration Patterns Are Changing—and Climate Change May Be to Blame
Do Trees Talk to Each Other?
Is China Committing Genocide Against the Uyghurs?
There Are Still Thousands of Tons of Unexploded Bombs in Germany, Left Over From World War II