Nicole Mortillaro

Senior Science Reporter

Based in Toronto, Nicole covers all things science for CBC News. As an amateur astronomer, Nicole can be found looking up at the night sky appreciating the marvels of our universe. She is the editor of the Journal of the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada and the author of several books. In 2021, she won the Kavli Science Journalism Award from the American Association for the Advancement of Science for a Quirks and Quarks audio special on the history and future of Black people in science. You can send her story ideas at nicole.mortillaro@cbc.ca.

Latest from Nicole Mortillaro

Heads up! Soviet-era probe to re-enter atmosphere this week, could make it to the surface

Fifty years ago, the former Soviet Union launched a probe to Venus. However, the rocket engines shut off too early, and the probe became stuck in Earth orbit. Now, it’s making its way back home, and there's the possibility it could make it to Earth's surface.

Scientists skeptical about recent claims that signs of life were possibly detected on exoplanet

Remember those claims that signs of life may have been detected on an exoplanet? Scientists have been skeptical about the claim, and now new, independent research is adding to that skepticism.

New evidence finds Mars may have had conditions that could have supported life

A new study led by a University of Calgary scientist has found evidence that suggests Mars once had a carbon cycle, giving further support for the habitability of the red planet.

There's a new comet in the sky, and it's already visible through binoculars

One of the great things about astronomy is that it’s always full of surprises, especially when it comes to comets — you just can’t predict new ones. But there’s a lot of buzz around a recently discovered comet that has quickly brightened.

NASA astronauts speak after unexpected 9-month stay on the International Space Station

After returning home earlier this month, NASA astronauts Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore spoke to the media about their extended nine-month stay on the International Space Station.

Partial solar eclipse to greet early risers in eastern Canada on Saturday

Attention those in eastern Canada: Do you still have those solar eclipse glasses from last year's total eclipse? If so, grab them and get up early on Saturday morning for a wonderful sight.

Did we surpass 1.5 C of warming in 2024? It depends on who you ask

Today, several climate agencies confirmed what we knew was coming: Earth once again experienced its hottest year on record. But whether or not it surpassed 1.5 C above the pre-industrial average depends on which climate agency you look at.

New York City has just implemented congestion pricing on cars. Is a big city in Canada next?

New York City, a bustling metropolis with eight million people all trying to get somewhere, has now put a price on cars entering part of Manhattan, the first of its kind in North America. Could Toronto, Montreal or Vancouver be next?

What to look forward to in space in 2025

This year, we were treated with a total solar eclipse, fantastic displays of the northern lights, spectacular meteor showers and impressive rocket launches. Here's what's in store for the year ahead.

Heads up! It's time for the Geminid meteor shower, one of the best shows of the year

December isn’t just about the holidays — it’s also the time of year we get to enjoy what is often touted as one of the best meteor showers of the year: the Geminids.