Scientists have taken an important step forward in being able to predict space weather, the various solar events that can seriously affect communications and electric power on Earth. The new method can allow up to two week's advance warning of strong solar winds. (American Geophysical Union release)

An automated research station will be built at the North Pole beginning this month to study changes in the Arctic Ocean. The "North Pole Automated Station" will use a system of floating buoys to learn how the world's northernmost sea helps regulate global climate. (National Science Foundation release)