EDITOR’S LETTER

Ever had that creepy feeling that you are being watched? Well, your worst fears have become reality. At this very moment, tiny eyes are watching your every movement. From under concrete slabs; out of small holes; on your kitchen counter… Ants. Are. All. Around. You. Scientists have counted the total number of ants on Earth (see page 11), and I’m terrified to tell you there are more than we previously thought. A lot more. If the thought of 20 quadrillion creepy crawlies gives you the heebiejeebies, be brave, because all manner of gruesome horrors lie inside the covers of this month’s magazine. I can personally guarantee you, however, that it’s all treat and no tricks!

In a past life, I was the editor of the Horrible Science magazine. Nick Arnold – the writer of the original books – is back again, with the terrifying tale of the grave-breaking, corpsepilfering body snatchers who supplied dead bodies to medical schools. Turn to page 24 to read this frightful chapter in the (horrible) history of medical science… if you dare!

We’ve also got some spine-chilling activities for you try out in our Labs section (page 47). Our investigation into vampires in Mysteries of Science (page 28) proves that you don’t need ghost stories – nature contains all the nightmares you’ll ever need. Even space can be spooky. We’ve included a NASA pull-out poster for your bedroom wall, inspired by classic “B-movie” posters.

If that’s not enough to give you the shivers, What in the World? (page 56) will make sure that you never sleep again.

Happy Halloween!