How Your Next Question Could Become a Popular Mechanics Story
Curiosity behind a rover name
In 2019, NASA asked U.S. grade-school students to suggest names for its new Mars rover. A 12-year-old girl proposed “Curiosity,” describing it as a force that drives everyday life and encourages people to ask questions and explore.
Popular Mechanics points to that example as a reflection of the curiosity it has sought to serve since 1902. The magazine says its mission is to help readers understand the world and find creative solutions.
Questions of every kind
The magazine is asking readers to send in subjects they keep thinking about. These could include an unexplained mystery, a question about how a machine works or a claim someone wants to test.
Questions can also be practical, such as choosing wood for a DIY project or finding a way to wrap presents while using less paper. The invitation spans topics that are broad or highly specific.
Ideas that may spark stories
Popular Mechanics says reader questions may concern science, technology, engineering, math, innovation, DIY or enduring mysteries. It also welcomes observations from daily life, including something unusual noticed during a commute.
The magazine frames questions as a starting point for understanding how things work and exploring possible answers. Readers are encouraged to share whatever has captured their attention.
Key points
- Popular Mechanics is inviting readers to share questions they cannot stop thinking about.
- The magazine says questions can be philosophical, practical, broad or highly specific.
- A 12-year-old suggested “Curiosity” for NASA’s new Mars rover in 2019.
- Popular Mechanics says it has served curious readers since 1902.