Helen Thompson

Washington, D.C.

Science Editor at National Geographic

Science editor @NatGeo. Former cat herder @ScienceNews. Runner. Broadway musical geek. Dolly Parton fan. I have a taco problem. She/her.

Articles

14 Fun Facts About Lovebirds, From Their Lifelong Devotion to Surprising Aggression

Feb 14, 2025 | smithsonianmag.com | Helen Thompson |Sonja Anderson

The cuddly, colorful parrots have become a symbol of Valentine’s Day. Here’s what to know about the famously affectionate birds It’s Valentine’s Day, and love is in the air. Millions of people will express affection through chocolate, flowers, greeting cards and stuffed animals. But in the rest of the animal kingdom, relationships can be a little different. Female praying mantises, for example, feast on their male lovers after sex.
Tips for Optimizing Natural Light and Insulation in Your Solarium

Aug 9, 2024 | shessinglemag.com | Helen Thompson

by Helen Thompson, Sponsored PostsCreating a solarium, or sunroom, is a wonderful way to bring the outdoors inside, offering a tranquil space to relax and enjoy nature year-round. One of the critical aspects of building a solarium is optimizing natural light and insulation. By doing so, you ensure that your space is not only bright and welcoming but also energy-efficient and comfortable in all seasons.
Let’s learn about particles that help us peer inside objects

May 7, 2024 | snexplores.org | Maria Temming |Emily Conover |Helen Thompson

electron: A negatively charged particle, usually found orbiting the outer regions of an atom; also, the carrier of electricity within solids. fabric: Any flexible material that is woven, knitted or can be fused into a sheet by heat. fossil: Any preserved remains or traces of ancient life. There are many different types of fossils: The bones and other body parts of dinosaurs are called “body fossils.” Things like footprints are called “trace fossils.” Even specimens of dinosaur poop are fossils.
How ‘parachute science’ in paleontology plays out in 3 countries

Jun 21, 2023 | sciencenews.org | Helen Thompson