On Today's Podcast
Into the Woods, From Chestnut Genetics To Tiny Forests
Genetic research could speed the restoration of the American chestnut tree. Plus, "rewilding" small spaces with fast-growing miniforests.
Listen NowFebruary 27, 2026
A new simulation shows large amounts of hydrogen in our planet’s core. Scientists report on what they found in 290-million-year-old vomit. Plus, a comedic play and a 20-year neurology study explore what we can do to prevent dementia and cognitive decline. And, a federal law aims to close the legal loophole that lets stores sell THC products from hemp.
Bones, Books, and Bell Jars
In her new book, Bones Books and Bell Jars, physician and photographer Andrea Baldeck documents the collection of medical texts, instruments, and specimens at Philadelphia’s Mütter Museum.
How the Morning-After Pill Works
Growing scientific evidence weakens claims that the morning-after pill is tied to abortion.
Mapping the Microbial Make-Up of Healthy Humans
Scoping out the trillions of germs that call the healthy human body home.
Bacterial Armor Imaged, Down to the Details
Images of a bacterium reveal a protective protein coat akin to the chainmail of a medieval knight.
Desktop Diaries: Sylvia Earle
A moray eel, a flock of geese, and a shrunken head are just a few of things found in and around Her Deepness’ office.
Virus Hunter Recalls Discovery of Ebola and HIV
Would you be brave enough to go deep into the African jungle to investigate a deadly new virus? Peter Piot was, and he’s here to tell the tale.
Putting a Friendly Face on Statistics
Turning data into faces makes people take notice.
Neanderthals: The Oldest Cave Painters?
A red disk painted in a Spanish cave over 40,800 years ago could be the work of Neanderthals.
Desktop Diaries: Sylvia Earle
In the latest installment of Science Friday’s Desktop Diaries series, Her Deepness takes us on a tour on her Oakland office.
How ‘Flame’ Malware Hijacks a Computer
This malware spies, eavesdrops and writes home with data from infected computers.
Identifying the Real Culprit Behind Killer Vascular Diseases
A study finds stem cells are to blame for blocked arteries that cause heart attacks and stroke.
The Winning Answer to a Burning Question
The winner of Alan Alda’s ‘Flame Challenge’ draws on animation, song and a physics background.
What Happens When Two Galaxies Collide?
Astronomers say the Andromeda and Milky Way galaxies will collide in four billion years.
Ex-Spy Telescopes May Aid Hunt for Dark Energy
The spy telescopes are wide-angle and short in length–earning them the nickname “stubby Hubbles.”
SpaceX Dragon May Ferry Astronauts by 2015
After a successful cargo run to the space station, SpaceX is preparing the Dragon capsule for crew.
Why Ignorance Trumps Knowledge in Scientific Pursuit
Neuroscientist Stuart Firestein discusses why ignorance is key to scientific discovery.
The Many Lifestyles of Muck-Dwelling Microbes
From barely-alive to bits of a biocomputer, a look at two different microbes and their unusual stories.
Can Technology Deliver Better Health Care?
Got high blood pressure? There’s an app for that!
Remembering a Son in Immortal Bird
A father reflects on family life, heartbreaking loss, and how he thinks the medical system failed his son.
Lightning Bug of a Different Color
Forget the fireflies, some millipedes glow in the dark too.