State of the Planet

News from the Columbia Climate School

Turkana Rift

  • In Eastern Africa, the Cradle of Humankind Is Tearing Apart

    In Eastern Africa, the Cradle of Humankind Is Tearing Apart

    Researchers have found that Earth’s underlying crust in the Turkana Rift region has been significantly thinned, presaging Africa’s eventual breakup—and with that finding, the researchers offer a new perspective on Turkana’s fossil record of human evolution.

Blue banner with kids and Earth photos. Text: "Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory Open House, Saturday, October 17, 2026, 10am-4pm.

On Saturday, October 17, 2026 from 10am to 4pm, Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory Open House—our biggest, best science fun and discovery event of the year—will take place on our beautiful campus in Palisades, NY. Mark your calendar and join us for this free, family-friendly celebration of science! RSVP Today!

  • In Eastern Africa, the Cradle of Humankind Is Tearing Apart

    In Eastern Africa, the Cradle of Humankind Is Tearing Apart

    Researchers have found that Earth’s underlying crust in the Turkana Rift region has been significantly thinned, presaging Africa’s eventual breakup—and with that finding, the researchers offer a new perspective on Turkana’s fossil record of human evolution.