Skip to main content

Frequently Asked Questions

What's New?

Check out our new digital magazine, Space & Physics!  The first issue is free to download, and you can subscribe to this bi-monthly publication by clicking here.  

Are there technical specifications for using ScientificAmerican.com?

We support the latest operating systems, and the latest versions of the following browsers, set to accept all cookies:

Chrome/Mobile Chrome

Firefox 

Safari/Mobile Safari

Android

Microsoft Edge

Should I accept cookies?

Yes!  Like most websites, ScientificAmerican.com uses cookies.  Cookies are small packets of data, they do not contain information that identifies you personally.  They function to help personalize your experience on our website, enable you to use our shopping cart, and helps us measure the effectiveness of our advertising.  Learn more about how Scientific American use cookies.

I use Microsoft Edge, how do I accept cookies?

First, please make sure you have the latest version of Microsoft Edge.  Update if necessary.

  1. Open the Microsoft Edge.
  2. Click on the More actions button on the toolbar, and select Settings.
  3. Search for View advanced settings and click on it.
  4. Under Cookies section, select to either Don't block cookies (default), Block only third party cookies.
  5. Restart Edge.

How do I find an article on ScientificAmerican.com?

Click on the magnifying glass symbol in the top of the page toolbar on ScientificAmerican.com to begin your search.

What information do you gather and how do you use it?

Our use of any information we collect regarding your usage of this website, or your purchases of products and services we offer is outlined in our Privacy Policy.

My password isn't working! Help!

Simply click the “Forgot password” link on the login screen. Then enter your email address and click on “Send me reset email”. You will receive an email with instructions to reset your password.  Check your spam folder if you do not find this email in your inbox.

I can't find an issue or an article that I downloaded. Where is it?

Where your browser places downloads is up to you and how you configure your browser.  Most browsers default to a "Downloads" folder already present on your computer.  Please consult the help desk of your browser to find out how to configure or change where your downloads go.  

Are there rules for leaving comments?

Where a comments forum is offered, we ask that you follow our Community Guidelines. 

Scientific American reserves the right to delete comments and revoke commenting privileges from the site and social media pages without notice.

Letters to the Editor can be sent in an email, or to the following address:

Scientific American
Letters to the Editor
1 New York Plaza
Suite 4500
New York, NY 10004