Topic: Styrofoam

Hubble telescope spots new class of planet: a steamy 'waterworld'

The planet GJ 1214b is a watery planet covered in a thick, steamy atmosphere, a new study of Hubble data suggests.

Canadian teens send Legonaut into 'space' (+video)

Two Canadian boys sent a Lego Man 80,000 feet above the Earth and captured the voyage on video.

Pork chops with chickpeas and spinach

Chickpeas and spinach bring big health benefits to this hearty one-pan meal. Cumin, chili powder, garlic and onion bring big flavor.

Why 2012 could be the year we find a habitable planet

Other than the one we're currently living on, that is. As discoveries of alien planets accelerates, the discovery of an "alien Earth" could be just over the horizon. 

How to make cake pops

Cake on a stick? You bet!

How to launch something into space for $150

Once the sole domain of military pilots and rocket scientists, low-earth orbit can now be attained by ordinary citizens with inexpensive hardware. A Q&A with Spacehack founder and do-it-yourselfer Ariel Waldman.

Shuttle Discovery's crew: a moment to reflect amid rush to complete tasks

Tackling their final chores before departing the International Space Station on Monday, shuttle Discovery crew members acknowledge with some sadness that the mission is the orbiter's last.

3 short story collections: some of the best I've ever read

When it comes to short stories, the best insight on how to read them I've ever found came from a new book on writing, “Unless It Moves the Human Heart,” by Roger Rosenblatt. One of Rosenblatt's graduate students said, in effect, that the writer begins by saying, “And so, we have come to this.” Of three new collections out this winter, two rank among the best I've ever read. If this is what we've come to, 2011 should be rich indeed.

Prince William and Kate Middleton and the future of the royal brand

Royalty used to have final say in matters of life and death. These days -- at least in most of the world -- they are more like celebrity spokesmen for their country.

Remembering Guenter Wendt, Apollo-era 'pad führer'

Guenter Wendt was NASA's original launch pad leader – or 'pad führer,' as he was affectionately known – for the agency's manned space program and the last man the Apollo astronauts saw before launching to the moon. He died Monday.

With these tips, anyone can grow lavender

Helpful tips on growing lavender in less than ideal conditions.

Haitians in makeshift camps organize services 'platoons'

Small groups have taken it upon themselves to establish security, organize aid deliveries, and maintain a minimum of sanitation in the sprawling 'tent cities' that cropped up in the wake of the Jan. 12 earthquake.

NASA's Kepler finds its first five planets - an odd assortment

NASA's Kepler space telescope is just beginning its three-year mission to find Earth-like planets in habitable zones around stars. The first new planets it has found, announced Monday, include two so hot they would melt iron.

Oops! This planet is orbiting in the wrong direction

Containers -- accessories for your garden

The addition of terra cotta pots and stands provides an inexpensive way to perk up decks and entrances.

Barbie's no threat to little girls

They learn more about self-image from their moms

Asta in the Wings

A 7-year-old narrator with an unforgettable voice carries this debut novel.

Great gardening expectations

THE ARRIVAL OF SEED PACKETS SPEEDS US TOWARD SPRING.

Peace, goodwill, and Hanukkah latkes

One day a year I was the most popular kid in the class.

From trash to an inventor's treasure trove

Kids dig through their trash and recycling bins to find materials for creating inventions.

A tiny house for every story

Each of the 32 buildings in this village represents a time in my life.

New York mayor proposes plastic-bag surcharge

In an effort to curb waste and generate revenue, New York mayor Michael Bloomberg has called for a 6-cent fee for every plastic shopping bag given to shoppers.

One team’s quest to win the world’s most prestigious barbecue contest

Members of Mad Hogs and an Englishman swab their meat with special sauces (one secret ingredient: grape jelly) and cook it very slowly.