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.
17:38
Rethinking A New Aid For Hearing Loss
A new generation of tech is helping change the stigma around hearing aids.
17:28
Can We Keep Coronavirus Out Of The Classroom?
With little federal guidance, the country is a patchwork of plans to open schools or keep students learning from home.
10:56
Can COVID-19 Spread Through The Air?
A dive into the debate over whether the coronavirus is airborne, plus other news from the week.
16:47
Take A Trip Through Time With Emily Graslie
The Field Museum’s Chief Curiosity Correspondent talks about her ultimate paleontology road trip across the Great Plains and the state of science communication.
17:10
Who Owns The Night Sky?
As space fills with satellites, how do we weigh the value of a dark night over the benefits of a connected world?
34:02
The Climate Is Changing—But Can We?
The chaos of 2020 made conversations about the climate crisis more difficult—and more important than ever.
In A Moment Of Black Holes And Pandemics
A year after the Event Horizon Telescope captured the first ever image of a black hole, author and astrophysicist Janna Levin looks back at the project’s impact.
11:55
How Sewage Samples Help Scientists Track COVID-19 Outbreaks
How scientists are using sewage to trace the pandemic. Plus, the toll fireworks can take on the lungs, and a birdsong gone viral.
34:43
Making The Outdoors Great For Everyone
How racism pervades public places meant for everyone.
16:49
Naked Mole Rats May Unlock Secrets About The Human Brain
Naked mole rats are unique in the mammal world. But their brains may have valuable clues for our own.
29:08
The Best Summer Science Books Of 2020
Our summer science book list will take you swimming with eels and unlock the mysteries of bird behaviors.
Introducing: Science Friday Summer Institute
From August 3-6, join Science Friday Education, STEM researchers, and STEM educators from around the country for a virtual conference and co-creation institute.
11:42
The First Wave Of COVID-19 Is Still Surging
States reckon with reopening as case numbers climb, plus a new signal in a Italian dark matter detector.
11:29
Why Are Honey Bee Colonies Collapsing?
Researchers are trying to figure out why bee colonies across the country are collapsing.
17:28
How To Approach The Risks Of Socializing During A Pandemic
States are opening up. Should you expand your social life? How to assess and manage your risk during the pandemic summer.
16:02
The Man Who Couldn’t See Numbers
A rare disease sheds light on how the human brain processes visual information.
33:56
COVID-19 Is Taking A Toll On Young People’s Mental Health Too
Uncertainty is hard for everyone. Here’s how caretakers can support kids and teens during social distancing.
12:12
PG&E Guilty Plea Sets A Precedent For Climate Change Culpability
Plus, why we shouldn’t count on lockdowns to work again.
17:05
Insights From International Doctors On The Frontlines Of The Pandemic
Two international resident physicians in the Bronx share their experiences treating COVID-19 patients.