On Today's Podcast
Could bird flu still spark a pandemic?
As local reports of dead birds rise, the greatest human risk continues to fall on some of the most vulnerable: farm workers.
Listen NowMarch 20, 2026
Move over, Ryan Gosling: Rocky the alien is the breakout star of the movie adaptation of "Project Hail Mary." Plus, how a particle accelerator, a robot, and 2,000 ants came together to paint a picture of biological diversity. And, a mathematician analyzed 150 years of women’s fashion to understand 20-year trend cycles, and how “optimal distinctiveness” drives change.
Full Of Stars
How a mechanical limitation forced “2001: A Space Odyssey” to slow down.
Cómo capturar un aroma
Separa y captura moléculas de aroma mediante vaporización por calor.
6:56
What Happened The Last Time Earth Got Hot Quickly?
Plus, 13,000-year-old footprints, the James Webb telescope is delayed, and a rogue satellite makes a timely landing.
4:59
Climate Science Goes To Court In California Oil Case
A judge requested a climate science tutorial in a federal lawsuit where two California cities are suing the oil company Chevron.
7:56
Is There A Cell Phone Link To Cancer? A Definite Maybe
A government study found a possible link to a rare type of cancer in rats. A peer review panel met this week and endorsed the findings.
Death And Thievery In The Colony
Cleptoparasite female bee, in the nest, with the manacles.
12:16
A New Organ That Could Explain The Mysteries Of The Human Body
Scientists have discovered “the interstitium,” a previously unidentified network of fluid-filled tissue.
17:20
Can We Predict Urban Gun Homicides?
Thousands of people of color die every year from gun homicides in cities. Can social science predict and prevent their deaths?
16:43
Little Bats, Impressive Resumes
Fancy flying, fast thinking, and sophisticated sonar: Why bats seem to have it all.
25:55
Beyond The Hive: The Wonderful World Of Native Bees
There are 4,000 types of native bees in North America, including species that secrete silk and others that build tiny towers.
Bats Take Flight
Thanks to high-speed video, we now know that bats fly very differently compared to birds.
Get Your Future Issue Of ‘Your Martian Daily’
Tips from a NASA astronaut for what to eat, how to dress, and how to manage your modern life on Mars.
Celebrate Spring At The Orchid Social
On April 9 in New York City, join Ira Flatow for a Science Friday garden party.
7:24
A Rhino’s Last Chance, Carbon Emission Carnivores, And Water On Exoplanets
The last male northern white rhino is dead. But he may still be able to help his species survive.
4:29
In Alaskan Cities, Climate Risks Could Become Credit Risks
In the state’s coastal fishing communities, climate change is becoming a threat to the economy.
17:13
How Do You Prevent Russia From Hacking Into The U.S. Power Grid?
Russian cyber groups have proven they can hack their way into U.S. power stations. Is there any way to make the grid safe?
16:47
After You Die, Your “Necrobiome” Lives On
A team of bacteria, insects, and other organisms take over bodies after death. But what can they tell scientists about how someone lived and died?
11:47
A Dung Detective Hunts For Rare Microbes
Most zoo visitors go to see the animals. Michelle O’Malley visits for their poop.
7:10
Coughs On A Plane
Researchers map out how the behavior of airplane passengers affects the chances of in-flight disease transmission.