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Joanna Thompson

Joanna Thompson is a freelance science writer based in New York City. Sometimes she runs fast.

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‘LIKE A DOLL’S EYES’

Is This Photo of the Ultra-Rare Goblin Shark Actually a Toy?

For one group of scientists, this new discovery is a big catch. For others, something fishy is going on.

Joanna Thompson

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NEGATIVE HEADSPACE

Climate Trauma Is Rewiring Our Brains Into Something Worse

“This is not exactly PTSD. It’s a new kind of trauma.”

Joanna Thompson

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CRYSTAL BALL

Can Math Models Predict—and Prevent—the Next Suicide?

With anxiety and depression spiking globally, some researchers think that computer simulations can help create more effective treatments for mental health issues.

Joanna Thompson

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FORTY WINKS FOR THE FUTURE

Hit the Snooze Button if You Want to Save the Planet

Seriously—science shows that fewer hours spent working and more hours spent resting could be one of the best ways to reduce your carbon footprint.

Joanna Thompson

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Social Distortion

Inside the Fight to Save Mars From Inheriting Earth’s Mess

Getting to the Red Planet is hard enough, but building a society everyone wants will be almost impossible. Almost.

Joanna Thompson

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