Donate

Oort cloud

Comet Lovejoy has probably passed through the inner solar system at least once already—we just weren't alive to see it.

Look hard and you can see Comet Lovejoy lighting up the night sky

Science

The last time Comet Lovejoy was visible in the night sky was 8,000 years ago. Now it’s back and visible from the Northern Hemisphere in the coming weeks, and binoculars or a telescope can give you a glowing view of the visitor.

Sedna artist rendering

The discovery of a new ‘dwarf planet’ expands our view of the solar system

Environment
Sedna artist rendering

The discovery of a new ‘dwarf planet’ expands our view of the solar system

Environment
Thanksgiving Obamacare

Obama’s having trouble fitting his turkey into the oven this year

Global Scan
Tell us about your experience accessing The World

We want to hear your feedback so we can keep improving our website, theworld.org. Please fill out this quick survey and let us know your thoughts (your answers will be anonymous). Thanks for your time!

We respect your time, attention and privacy

This is a news website, not a click casino. We do NOT employ deceptive behaviors, display annoying ads or use third party cookies and trackers to monetize your visit or help advertisers track you across the internet.

Simply, we ask that you would consider a donation to support the journalism we produce every weekday. Thank you.

This is The World

The World is a public radio program and podcast that crosses borders and time zones to bring home the stories that matter.

Follow The World

Subscribe to The World’s Latest Edition podcast for free using your favorite podcast player: