As a reader, you can be assured that InDEPTH does not condone the use of AI for writing, generating images, or automating any other creative works, and we do not employ AI for these applications. Some members of our team utilize AI as a research tool (to compile lists of sources, for instance) or to check their and our contributors’ writing for errors. Human-made works—of historic and scientific reporting, of prose, of visual art, of videography—are and will always be the backbone of this publication. As always, no matter how messy, human creativity, passion, and feeling will be the hallmark of this magazine.

From brand-new features published in 2025 to evergreen classics from the InDepth archive,
these are the stories you read most this year—two separate top lists that capture what the community
cared about, debated, and bookmarked.

Certain articles contained herein discuss technical concepts and experiences for informational and journalistic purposes only. It does not constitute instruction, certification, engineering guidance, medical advice, or safety recommendations, and should not be used as a substitute for formal training, manufacturer documentation, or professional judgment.