Popular Mechanics US Magazine - May - June 2025

In this issue

Get Your A/C Ready for High Temps
How to set up and look after your unit to ensure efficiency, smooth running, and a cool(er) summer. By Popular Mechanics Editors

Build Your Own Wine Rack
In just seven steps, you can make a custom tabletop bottle holder to display your favorite brands or varieties. By Bradley Ford

Organ Donation Should Be Easier
Every day, 17 Americans die waiting for a transplant. Experts say the system is safe, but needs updating. It’s no simple task. By Dan Schwartz

QUANTUM GRAVITY

ALMOST ALL WE KNOW about the universe boils down to the rules of quantum mechanics. Just about everything can be described as fields (electromagnetism, the strong nuclear force, the weak nuclear force) and matter, and we've slowly rebuilt our understanding of the cosmos out of these fundamental building blocks.

2 mins

A New Human Species

ALTHOUGH ONLY ONE SPECIES OF hominin exists on the planet today—good ol' Homo sapiens—the human family once comprised a complex tableau of members. And over the years, scientists have tried to get a clearer picture of that prehistoric story by excavating ancient human sites around the world.

1 min

Longevity Escape Velocity

Death and Taxes the twin inevitabilities of human life. At least, for the moment. If you ask some of the most prominent futurists in the world, death may not be on that (admittedly short and cliché) list for much longer.

2 mins

This Secret Military Base

OVER THE YEARS, WE'VE DUG UP A LOT of stuff buried underneath layers upon layers of ice. Ancient tools, animal corpses, World War II planes—you name it, ice has buried it, and we've found it.

2 mins

D.B. Cooper

THE CHILDREN OF CONVICTED SKYJACKER Richard McCoy II believe their dear old dad may have been D. B. Cooper, the notorious central figure in 1971's unsolved skyjacking. It's in fact the only one in U.S. history without an answer—until, perhaps, now.

2 mins

A Third Form of Magnetism

SCIENTISTS HAVE RECENTLY CRAFTED and imaged a novel magnetic substance known as an altermagnetic material.

2 mins

A Christian Amulet

AN 1,800-YEAR-OLD SILVER amulet discovered buried in a Frankfurt, Germany, grave—still next to the chin of the man who wore it—has 18 lines of text written in Latin on just 1.37 inches of silver foil. That could be enough to rewrite the known history of Christianity in the Roman Empire.

2 mins

This Whiskey Shipwreck

DURING A STORMY NIGHT IN 1878, A three-masted schooner called the James R. Bentley struck a shoal and sank to the bottom of Lake Huron on a Chicagoto-Buffalo voyage. Although the crew was rescued, the ship and its precious cargo went into the 39°F water.

2 mins

A Gopher Volcano

IT WOULD PROBABLY BE PRETTY ALARMING to learn that, in the early 1980s, scientists decided to drop off a bunch of gophers at the site of a volcanic eruption.

1 min

A New Predator Emerging From the Deep

SCIENTISTS AT WOODS HOLE OCEANO-graphic Institute (WHOI) and the Universidad de Concepción in Chile have discovered new life—a previously unknown, active predator in one of the deepest trenches in the world.

1 min

HOW TO PREP YOUR A/C FOR SUMMER

With the last two years being the hottest on record, in many parts of the world, an air conditioning system isn't just a luxury; it's a lifesaver. Taking good care of your A/C is therefore essential. Neglecting upkeep could lead to worsened indoor air quality, higher utility bills, and a shortened life span of your unit. Some repairs are best handled by a professional, but there are several maintenance tasks you can manage yourself. Here's how to set up and look after your A/C to ensure efficiency, smooth running, and a cool(er) summer.

9 mins

HIS FAMILY WANTED TO DONATE HIS ORGANS.

IT SHOULDN'T HAVE BEEN THIS HARD.

10+ mins

DIY WINE RACK

Make it your own by selecting unique wood, altering the dimensions, or using a special finish.

4 mins

A Small Town.A Missing Security Guard.A Brazen Heist.

When $220,000 worth of platinum went missing from a Pennsylvania glass factory, authorities were stumped. Then they saw the security footage.

10+ mins

Read all stories from Popular Mechanics US

Popular Mechanics US Magazine Description:

Popular Mechanics US is a widely recognized magazine that caters to enthusiasts of science, technology, and all things related to mechanics. Here's an overview of the magazine's content and its focus on providing valuable insights and information to its readers:

Popular Mechanics US offers a diverse range of content, covering topics such as engineering, DIY projects, automotive advancements, home improvement, technology trends, outdoor adventures, and more. With a rich history dating back to 1902, the magazine has remained a trusted source for practical advice, expert guidance, and in-depth features.
1. Science and Technology: Popular Mechanics US keeps readers informed about the latest scientific discoveries, technological advancements, and innovative ideas shaping the world. It covers topics like space exploration, robotics, artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and emerging technologies, providing insights into how these developments impact our daily lives.

2. DIY Projects and How-Tos: The magazine features step-by-step guides and tutorials for DIY enthusiasts and individuals interested in hands-on projects. From home improvement and woodworking to electronics and automotive repairs, Popular Mechanics US offers practical tips, tool recommendations, and detailed instructions to help readers tackle various projects.
3. Automotive: Popular Mechanics US has a dedicated focus on automobiles, providing coverage on the latest automotive technologies, industry news, and reviews. Whether you're interested in new car models, maintenance tips, or insights into electric and autonomous vehicles, the magazine offers a wealth of information for automotive enthusiasts and consumers.
4. Home and Workshop: Readers looking to enhance their homes or workshops can find inspiration and guidance through Popular Mechanics US. The magazine offers articles on home improvement, DIY renovations, tool recommendations, and tips for maintaining and upgrading living spaces and work areas.
5. Outdoor Adventures and Gear: From camping and hiking to fishing and off-roading, Popular Mechanics US caters to outdoor enthusiasts. It features articles on adventure travel, gear reviews, survival tips, and insights into outdoor recreational activities, helping readers make informed choices for their outdoor pursuits.

6. In-Depth Features and Interviews: Popular Mechanics US delivers in-depth features, interviews, and profiles of experts, innovators, and thought leaders in various fields. These articles provide readers with a deeper understanding of groundbreaking technologies, scientific breakthroughs, and the people behind them.
Popular Mechanics US continues to engage and educate readers by exploring the intersection of science, technology, and mechanics. Through its informative articles, practical tips, and inspiring stories, the magazine empowers readers to stay informed, pursue their interests, and embrace the world of innovation and engineering.