Mental Floss

NEWS

iStock.com/TorriPhoto

When you need a particularly decadent treat, head to one of these chocolate shops (or their websites) to satisfy that sweet tooth. No holiday necessary.

Suzanne Raga


NASA

In 2004, the rover Opportunity landed on Mars. Originally intended to serve a mere 90-day mission, the rover instead beamed back scientific discoveries for more than a decade—and now its groundbreaking mission is over.

Erin McCarthy


iStock/fotolinchen

Saliva is more important than you think: You need spit to taste, chew, swallow, and digest everything you eat. Your spit even fights tooth decay and cavities.

Shaunacy Ferro








Hulton Archive/Getty Images

John Adams had a reputation for articulate jabs and razor-sharp put-downs at the expense of his rivals and allies alike. Here are a few of his best zingers.

Mark Mancini












Christopher Polk, Getty Images

For more than 90 years, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has rewarded excellence on the big screen—and they've seen plenty of historic firsts over the decades.

Rudie Obias