Top 10 Leading Science Magazines

Science magazines allow readers to explore fascinating discoveries, groundbreaking research, and compelling ideas shaping our understanding of the world. As science and technology advance at an ever-quickening pace, following trustworthy publications has become more crucial than ever.

Below we highlight 10 of the most popular, long-standing, and influential science magazines available today. Whether you’re a career scientist, curious layperson, or student, these publications deliver captivating and educational content that illuminates the wonders of science.

1. Scientific American

• Published continuously since 1845, making it the longest-running monthly science magazine
• Covers recent developments in science and technology through news articles, features, and more
• Tackles fields like physics, space, environment, biotech, medicine, psychology, archaeology
• Includes commentary from leading scientists on breakthrough research
• Reaches over 3 million readers monthly via print and online

2. National Geographic

• Renowned publication known for breathtaking photography and first-rate science storytelling
• Engrossing articles on biology, geology, archaeology, astronomy, the oceans, plant Earth’s diverse ecosystems
• Extensive coverage of paleontology, including new dinosaur species discoveries
• Striking photographic spreads of wildlife, landscapes, Indigenous cultures worldwide
• Global print circulation over 3.5 million, reaching millions more online

3. New Scientist

• Leading weekly science and technology magazine published in the UK since 1956
• News reports, features, and research highlights from the frontiers of science
• Eclectic mix of coverage on space, physics, nanotech, climate, evolution, medicine, robotics, and more
• Accessible articles aimed at scientifically-curious readers rather than experts
• Global circulation over 120,000, with an online audience over 5 million

4. Discover

• Established science magazine covering cosmology, quantum physics, environmental issues, paleontology
• Monthly print magazine with over 4 million readers and a large online presence
• Features explain complex, cutting-edge research and concepts in an engaging way
• Regular columns such as 100 Top Science Stories and Retrospectacle
• Annual awards for outstanding achievement in science journalism

5. Science News

• Weekly magazine published continuously since 1922, making it the longest-running science publication
• Succinct encapsulations of the latest research across diverse scientific fields like genetics, robotics, archaeology
• News reports and updates written for a general audience rather than scientists
• Covers emerging technologies and interviews prominent scientists
• Print and online content reaches over 1 million science enthusiasts

6. Scientific American Mind

• Bimonthly magazine published by Scientific American focusing on recent psychology, neuroscience, mental health
• Illuminates new research into human behavior, intelligence, emotions, disorders, relationships, sexuality
• Features like “Ask The Brains” offer insights from cognitive scientists
• Profiles leading neuroscientists, psychologists, psychiatrists
• Reaches over 200,000 readers interested in the workings of the human mind

7. Popular Science

• Longest-running magazine on this list, founded in 1872
• Showcases new inventions, technological breakthroughs, and discoveries across the sciences
• Monthly features aimed at science enthusiasts include Futuretech (emerging technologies) and What’s New (notable developments)
• Reviews and recommendations of lab equipment, telescopes, electronics, and more for hands-on scientists
• Readership exceeds 1.3 million

8. Wired

• Leading publication reporting on how emerging technologies affect culture, business, and innovation
• Started in 1993 and went on to help popularize the 1990s “Digital Revolution”
• Covers cutting-edge breakthroughs in AI, quantum computing, cybersecurity, biotech, transportation
• Longform features provide in-depth look at complex or controversial technologies reshaping society
• Print and online content reaches 30 million readers globally

9. American Scientist

• Respected science and technology magazine published by scientific honorary society Sigma Xi
• Peer-reviewed articles by prominent scientists across disciplines like chemistry, biology, physics, computer science
• Aimed at professional researchers, academics, and students rather than general audiences
• Technical, detailed pieces illuminate specific niches like nanomaterials, immunotherapy, exoplanets
• Reaches over 100,000 subscribers, many affiliated with universities or research institutes

10. Physics Today

• Monthly peer-reviewed magazine published by American Institute of Physics
• Highlights recent discoveries, trends, and news from the world of physics research
• Features, columns, editorials, reviews on topics like quantum physics, optics, condensed matter physics
• Created for an audience of physicists and physics students
• Readership comprises over 130,000 physicists and other scientists

Why Science Magazines Matter

Science magazines serve many invaluable purposes for both scientists and general audiences, including:

• Allowing people to explore exciting scientific topics and discoveries they might otherwise never encounter
• Making cutting-edge research accessible and engaging to non-expert readers
• Helping researchers stay up to date on the latest developments in their field
• Educating the public on important issues like climate change, technology’s impacts on society, advances in medicine
• Encouraging fascination with and support for scientific research among the general population
• Providing insightful commentary and critiques of new studies and publications
• Documenting the history of science’s greatest breakthroughs and innovations over decades
• Showcasing breathtaking visuals of things like deep space and microscopic biological processes
• Interviewing influential scientists and sharing their stories with the world

Whether you read them for entertainment, education or career development, the most compelling, trusted science magazines open doors to endless wonders and transform how we see the world. Following just one or two can vastly expand your scientific knowledge and perspective.