Although no injuries or major damage was reported after yesterday’s 5.4 quake in Los Angeles, the jolt was a reminder of the importance of structural integrity for buildings in earthquake hotspots. Earlier this week, NewsHour reported on a debate in Oregon about the need to fortify their schools against possible earthquake damage. Read or watch the report.

With just two weeks to go to the 2008 Summer Olympic Games, China is pushing to clean up air pollution in Beijing and show its political tolerance by allowing protest zones around the city. Scott Tong, who is based in Shanghai, takes your questions about the country’s preparations for the games. Ask now.

We’re excited to announce the launch of The Human Spark web site. A three-part series to be broadcast on PBS in 2009, The Human Spark will follow Alan Alda …

The Hubble Space Telescope has produced the most stunning images of the cosmos humanity has ever seen. It has transformed our understanding of the universe, about its age and evolution, the life cycle of stars, and the very existence of black holes. Watch a video about the visionaries behind the Hubble.

New York has long boasted about the quality of its drinking water. However, plans to drill for natural gas near the watersheds that supply New York City may change that.