On Today's Podcast
What is lymphatic drainage, anyway?
A new wellness trend focuses on stimulating the lymphatic system. What does this system do, and is there science to back these claims?
Listen NowSeptember 18, 2026
Hawaiʻi has generally been safe from the worst effects of hurricanes. But this year, two hurricanes battered the islands in a matter of weeks. A new wellness trend focuses on stimulating the lymphatic system. What does this system do, and is there science to back these claims? Plus, perimenopause science, our fascination with lost knowledge, and a snake's spider-like tail appendage.
11:43
Tracking Nighttime Bird Migrations, by Sound
Researchers are trying to build a network of computerized sensors that identify birds based on the short chirps they make while in flight.
23:52
Predicting the Car (and Fuel) of the Future
Will electric cars ever be popular? A trip into the Science Friday archives for a look at the rise of alternative-fuel vehicles.
16:47
Closing Out the Cephaloparty
For the end of Cephalopod Week 2016, we delve into the mysteries of cephalopod ink and the squid microbiome.
10:16
Heat Waves Make for Less Friendly Skies
Extreme heat affects an airplane’s lift during takeoff and landing, due to reduced air pressure, and some experts say climate change could result in more weight restrictions on flights.
17:21
From ‘Nettles’ to ‘Volcano,’ a Pain Scale for Insect Stings
What we can learn from the man who got stung…willingly…for science.
This Cuttlefish Dazzles
Internet chatter suggests that the flamboyant cuttlefish—known for ambling along the seafloor and flashing brilliant displays—is toxic. What does the science say?
Make A Squid Print
Observe the different features of a squid from your local market and then create a squid print where you can document your findings.
A Shot in the Dark: Alternative Uses for Squid Ink
Stephanie Bush, a scientist at the Monterey Bay Aquarium Research Institute (MBARI), suggests that squids might use ink to attract a mate, repel a predator, or even confuse their prey.
The Rare Sight Of A Brooding Squid
This cephalopod will carry and brood its eggs for several months, without feeding.
Discuss the Applications and Implications of Metal Foam
What responsibility, if any, do scientists and the public have to make sure new technologies are developed for the purpose of good? Have students discuss this issue by brainstorming possible uses for a new metal foam and then deciding who should address unintended uses of that technology.
Secrets of Cephalopod Camouflage
Ethologist Roger Hanlon has devoted a career to studying how octopuses, squid, and cuttlefish become inconspicuous.
17:03
Best Science Fiction Books for Your Summer Reading List
Annalee Newitz and Ann VanderMeer share their science fiction picks to add to your summer reading list.
12:19
The Neuroscience of a Microchip, Remembering a Keystone Ecologist, and Brexit’s Effect on Science
What can “Donkey Kong” tell us about the state of neuroscience? Plus the possible implications of Brexit for science.
16:59
Eight (or More) Reasons to be Amazed by the Octopus
Octopus researchers help kick off our annual Cephalopod Week celebrations with a look at the octopus, from its genes to its outlook on life.
12:09
Unlocking Blood-Forming Stem Cells for Personalized Therapies
A look at how stem cells found in the blood can be used to treat cancer, diabetes, and other diseases.
17:11
Forecasting the Revolution in Human Reproduction
In “The End of Sex and the Future of Human Reproduction,” Hank Greely explores the legal and ethical frontiers of human reproductive technology.
17:20
What We Do (And Mostly Don’t) Know About Guns
The CDC doesn’t study effects of firearms. Here’s what researchers have to say about that.
The Technology That’s Changing the Future of Human Reproduction
Author Hank Greely on how humans will conceive and reproduce in the brave new world ahead of us.
I, Octopus
With thousands of chemically-sensitive suckers, color-changing skin, and a brain that literally stretches when they eat, octopuses seem like aliens living in our oceans.