Dispatch From the Oil Frontier
Ever-increasing fossil fuel demand has companies going farther and digging deeper for oil than ever before. We visit one high-tech drilling rig stationed in the ultradeep waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Plus: A snapshot of the world's current resources -- how long they'll last and what we can do about it.

Southern Exposure
2008 House of the Year has the classic charm of a vintage low-country cottage -- coupled with a solid structure that can withstand ocean salt, hurricanes and earthquakes.

Haptics -- The Technology of Touch
Remote-control robot surgeons, virtual buttons that feel real, video games that hit back. The new world of force feedback is just getting started -- but it will change the way we interact with our machines.

New Cars: American Hero
Dodge's new Challenger puts a modern twist on an old favorite. Plus: Anatomy of the new Honda CBR motorcycle; we test drive European diesel sedans; and a master spy signs off.

The Facts about Ferrets
They're long, they're lean, and they're not so mean! Feisty ferrets have a rep for being nibbly and stinky, but these relatives of the weasel have gotten a bad rap. We provide a guide for their care within the shelter -- and a glimpse of why their advocates have a mania for mustelids.

Teach the Children Well
Educators aim to leave no child behind, but many of the most important lessons kids can learn -- about kindness and non-violent conflict resolution, for example -- are now being edged out in favor of standardized lessons and regular testing. But by tying your lessons to new educational requirements, you can get humane education back into the curriculum.

Shelter Medicine
Veterinarians are often in the best position to notice signs of animal cruelty, yet studies have shown they seldom report their suspicions.