NGM AUGUST 2026 THE DAY THE WORLD EXPLODED

Oplontis is a lesser-known 2nd century BC Roman villa that was the lavish vacation home for Roman emperors and their families. Officially designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Oplontis has revealed new insights about the infrastructure and daily life of both the mega-wealthy and the people who served them before the area succumbed to the ashy  destruction of Vesuvius. This site has long been overlooked—even by National Geographic; we have never done a print story. We will take a first-of-its kind comprehensive look at the biggest discovery to come out of Oplontis: a room full of 54 skeletons huddled together. 

Other features in this issue include: • Revealing Every Animal on Earth: Wildlife photographer Joel Sartore is on a quest to make intimate portraits of some 25,000 animal species. Twenty years into his Photo Ark project, global biodiversity has never been so in need of a champion. • The Rise of Morocco’s Horsewomen: For centuries, only men practiced the equestrian spot of tbourida. Now a cohort of trailblazing women is recruiting a new generation of fierce female riders.  • Mystery Forests of the Marshlands: In Florida’s gator-strewn backcountry, stands  of strangely tiered cypresses have long been an eco-curiosity, but scientists are  coming to realize their incredible value.