Nature
What are Fire Rainbows?
Fire rainbows are a rare and beautiful weather phenomenon that appear as rainbow-colored wisps of clouds in the sky. Consider yourself lucky if you see one.
History
536 AD: The Worst Year Ever
In 536 AD a volcanic eruption coated the Northern hemisphere with ash and produced a fog that plunged Europe into darkness.
Nature
Mad Honey and its Intoxicating Allure
BY Rae Osborn
Mad honey gains its hallucinogenic properties from a substance called grayanotoxin found in certain rhododendron flowers. Overeating can be dangerous.
History
Let’s Settle This: How Tall Was Napoleon?
BY Cal Harding
Napoleon Bonaparte, “little corporal,” is often depicted as diminutive. Historians lament this fixation, overshadowing discussions on his leadership and impact. But let’s address the elephant in the room—Napoleon’s height—rooted in science and British propaganda.
History
The Extraordinary Evolution of the Dunce Cap
Since its creation by John Duns Scotus in the 13 century, the Dunce Cap has represented the extremes of high intellectualism, evil, and stupidity.
Culture
Ferric Fantasies: The Strange Saga of Popeye, Spinach and Strength
Popeye and spinach have fueled a great deal of nutritional nonsense. One thing is sure, spinach is good for you, but not as much as you first thought.
Science
The Imperfect Hue: What Color is a Mirror?
BY Rae Osborn
Standard mirrors are not perfectly smooth due to structural irregularities For this reason most mirrors reflect green light better.
Sport
How Long is the Marathon? The Story of a Peculiar Distance
The reasoning behind the quirky marathon distance contains some murky explanations. However, those extra 385 yards are likely linked to British Royalty.
Nature
Daisugi: Everything You Need to Know (and a Bit Extra) About the Ancient Japanese Art of Beautiful and Sustainable Forestry
Facing a shortage of cedars and no available land to grow new seedlings, medieval Japanese foresters developed a technique called daisugi. It allowed them to grow trees—on top of other trees!
Nature
Can Men Lactate? Yes, But It’s Complicated
Yes! Men can lactate. However, it’s rare and occurs when the pituitary gland produces a hormone called prolactin which induces milk production.
Science
Space Blindness: A Scary Side Effect of Microgravity
As space exploration expands, space blindness emerges as a grave consequence of extended stays beyond Earth. Can scientists conquer this challenge in time for the impending Mars mission? Unveiling their strategies becomes paramount on the path to interplanetary journeys.
Culture
Blooming Beauty: The Resurgence of Ikebana, the Art of Japanese Flower Arranging
Ikebana’s resurgence: Japan’s ancient art of flower arranging returns in full bloom. Delve into the beauty and symbolism of living sculptures, as cultural significance takes center stage in Ikebana’s majestic comeback. Discover the intricacies of this time-honored tradition.
Culture
Exploring the Myth: Why is There a Worm in Tequila?
Why is there a worm in Tequila? Or is there? Who would even consider a drink with a worm in it and how and why did it get there? Find out all the answers
Culture
Lulu Hashimoto: The Living Doll Conquering the Catwalk
Meet Lulu Hashimoto, the doll who won a human beauty pageant and developed a huge following as a fashion model and human-like character
Science
The Birth of Chainsaws: The Why Behind the Buzz
Ever wondered why chainsaws were invented? Contrary to what one might expect, these now-indispensable modern tools possess a startlingly unconventional origin. Dive deeper into their fascinating history, tracing their roots back to the medical field – specifically aiding childbirth and combatting maternal mortality rates.
History
Wojtek the Bear: The Syrian Brown Bear Who Inspired an Army
Read the amazing story of Wojtek, the bear. There are memorials to this bear in two major cities in Europe. He left an impression on all who met him.
Nature
The Hammerhead Worm: A Tiny Terror Lurking in the Dirt
The Hammerhead Worm, or bipalium kewense, is invading global habitats, feasting on earthworms in our gardens. Discover the eerie realities of this creature and strategies to mitigate its detrimental ecological impact.
Culture
The Cheongsam: Chinese Cultural Attire or High Fashion?
The Cheongsam, the epitome of femininity in China was once made to hide the body. Read the fascinating history of the origins of the traditional garment.
