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Three maps of Japan that shows the distribution of earthquakes.

Mapping Magnitude: The Evolution of Earthquake Maps

Posted by: Sonia Kahn

Did you know that worldwide, roughly 55 earthquakes are recorded per day? Of course, the vast majority of these seismic events are minor, making it all the more impressive that we are able to detect them. The technology used to gather data on earthquakes and seismic movements has vastly improved over time, and with it …

Detail of a map of New York City that shows the subway lines in different colors.

What Goes Up Must Come Down: A brief history of New York City’s elevated rail and subway lines

Posted by: Sonia Kahn

On a recent trip to New York City, I frequently found myself in the underbelly of the city, submerged below the hustle and bustle as I was transported up and down Manhattan. I couldn’t help but notice while I was visiting how the now antique mosaics depicting station names give the subway system character. It’s …

A red outline around the streets of San Francisco in the burned portion of the city. The buildings that have been rebuilt two years later are shown as black rectangles.

Shaken to the Core

Posted by: Sonia Kahn

At 5:12 a.m. on a typical Wednesday morning, most San Franciscans are probably sleeping. Perhaps they are just brewing their first cup of coffee, or gearing up for a jog. Maybe they are just stepping foot out the door on their way to work. Nothing out of the ordinary. But 115 years ago at 5:12 …