Science

Can we grow veggies on Mars? Fly larvae and synthetic soil may hold the answer
A Texas undergrad is investigating how to grow vegetables on Mars — and has cultivated test samples of English peas in simulated Martian soil, with fertilizer from fly larvae.
Tour the galaxy with the 'Bad Astronomer'
In his new book, Philip Plait — aka the Bad Astronomer — takes space fans on a vivid tour of the cosmos, with stops on planets, moons, stars and even black holes. (Spoiler: That last one doesn’t end well.)
University of Minnesota launches Cannabis Research Center
The University of Minnesota School of Public Health has launched a new Cannabis Research Center to assess the health impacts of the state’s recent legalization of recreational cannabis for adults.
Video: Monday evening blast shakes homes in parts of northern Minnesota; cause unclear
Authorities in northern Minnesota say they’re not sure what caused a bright flash and “incredibly loud explosion” that shook buildings across parts of the region Monday evening.