Travel
August 27, 2020

You Can Now Pedal Through California’s Scenic Redwood Forest on a Railbike

In an effort to give a new lease on life to some of America’s historic railway lines, Skunk Train is repurposing unused train tracks as adventurous tour routes. One of its most popular experiences is an excursion through the world-famous Redwood Route in northern California. But rather than ride the rails via train, you and a friend can pedal an electric-powered railbike meant for two.

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Drawing
August 26, 2020

Illustrator Imagines Powerful Warriors as a Diverse Group of Strong Women [Interview]

From Disney’s depiction of Mulan to Studio Ghibli’s Princess Mononoke, female warriors in animated films are undoubtedly legendary—but a rarity. Women in fantasy art and film are still vastly underrepresented, especially characters that embody diversity. Artist Yael Nathan seeks to change this. She’s created an illustrated series of powerful women warriors that represent many shapes, sizes, and skin colors. Female heroines are often depicted as young, physically fit, and attractive (by society's standards).

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Animals
August 25, 2020

Incredible Dragonfly Photos Offer a Rare Look At Their Delicate Beauty

Astronomy professor Pieter van Dokkum has a special passion for photography. And in particular, an enthusiasm for photographing dragonflies. This led the Yale University educator to publish his book, Dragonflies: Magnificent Creatures of Water, Air, and Land. Over nearly 200 pages, Van Dokkum brings the reader on a journey across the life cycle of these magical insects. Part of the Odonata order, the winged creatures are found on every continent except Antarctica.

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History
August 24, 2020

Researchers Uncovered a 5,000-Year-Old Crystal Dagger Buried in Spain

Archeologists have discovered many tools left behind by prehistoric civilizations. Most of these are made of stone, but in Spain, researchers have found incredible weapons made of rock crystal. Dating back to at least 3000 BCE, these weapons include an incredible crystal dagger that would have taken enormous skill to carve. The incredible find was discovered in the megalithic tomb of Montelirio tholos, which is located in southwestern Spain.

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My Modern Met

Celebrating creativity and promoting a positive culture by spotlighting the best sides of humanity—from the lighthearted and fun to the thought-provoking and enlightening.