EAPS News

02-20-2026

Atmospheric pollution caused by space junk could be a huge problem

NewScientist — After a Falcon 9 rocket stage burned up in the atmosphere, vaporised lithium and other metals drifted over Europe. This growing type of pollution could destroy ozone and form climate-warming clouds. EAPS's Dan Cziczo was quoted in the article.

02-16-2026

As Earth slowed its spin, oceans may have tipped the balance for life

Earth has not always rotated at the same speed it does today. Over the roughly 4 billion years that life has existed on the planet, Earth's rotation has gradually slowed, lengthening days and quietly reshaping the oceans. New research from Purdue University suggests that this planetary slowdown may have played an important role in making Earth's oceans more hospitable for life

02-13-2026

Why Are Thunderstorms More Intense Over Land Than Ocean?

EOS — A new perspective on convective instability sheds light on the factors controlling intensity in the rising motions that produce precipitation, and occasionally thunder and lightning, over land. EAPS Professor Dan Chavas was part of the research group.

02-13-2026

Purdue grad plays major role in NASA’s Artemis II mission

FOX59/CBS4 — The historic Artemis II launch has been postponed to March following technical difficulties identified during a wet dress rehearsal on Feb. 6, including operational issues from the bitter cold and a hydrogen leak in the Space Launch System (SLS) Rocket. EAPS's Briony Horgan was interviewed for this article.

02-10-2026

February staff recognition for dedicated years of service

Purdue Today has launched a new monthly feature celebrating Purdue staff members in West Lafayette and Indianapolis who have dedicated 10 or more years of service to the university. EAPS's Senior Administrative Assistant, Tracy McGirt, is celebrating 15 years of service at Purdue!

02-09-2026

Award-winning writer, documentarian to headline Presidential Lecture Series event, kicking off Purdue’s celebration of America’s 250th

Bestselling writer, documentarian and television producer Timothy Ferris will kick off the spring semester’s Presidential Lecture Series on Feb. 26 with a conversation with Purdue University President Mung Chiang addressing the pivotal role of science in advancing democracy and economic development. The lecture also commences Purdue’s yearlong celebration of our nation’s 250th birthday.