Today on New Scientist


Twitter reveals the happiest spots in New York

An analysis of tweets shows which areas of New York City were happiest and saddest during a two week period


Wiped out: The race to save our video heritageMovie Camera

The taped memories of half a century are failing, and the machines to play them are too. We must act now or lose a huge chunk of 20th-century history


Syria: Drop medicines, not bombs

The most effective response to the nerve gas attacks in Damascus would be to arm the people with antidotes and information


ButtonMasher: DIY video game tools put you in control

No programming experience? No problem. A host of new tools let anyone create their own video game


Iraq offers grim lessons for Syrian gas survivors

The aftermath of 1980s chemical attacks in Iraq suggest that thousands of Syrians face decades of sickness – but intervention can still help some


Wind and rockets key clues in Syrian chemical puzzle

From wind direction to short-range rockets, analysis of the Damascus chemical attack can reveal the poison used, identify suspects and suggest what to do next


Red sprites snapped dancing above a Nebraska storm

Rare pictures taken from a research plane show the lightning-like tendrils reaching up into the sky, offering a chance to explore what sparks a sprite


Yosemite Rim Fire is taste of things to come

The huge wildfire burning 250 kilometres east of San Francisco threatens its power and water supplies, and is a sobering warning of changes that lie ahead


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