On Today's Podcast
The science and politics of the new mRNA flu vaccine
A new mRNA flu vaccine promises a closer match to circulating flu strains. But dysfunction at federal health agencies is complicating rollout.
Listen NowOctober 9, 2026
A new mRNA flu vaccine promises a closer match to circulating flu strains. An estimated 2 billion tons of dust are lofted into the air each year, affecting ecosystems, the atmosphere, and the weather. Plus artist David Byrne sits down with Flora for a conversation on why some ideas go dormant, and then reawaken. And, a Cephalopod Week finale featuring death spirals, cannibalism, and more.
Ghosts In The Reels
Even in this era of cloud storage, many data centers still use good, reliable magnetic tape. But as the technology develops at a faster rate, this backup is quickly becoming obsolete. What will become of the forgotten data preserved on the tape of the past?
Look Stellar With A SciFri Eclipse Tank
Buy yours today before the Great American Eclipse!
What Will Actually Get You Censored On The Chinese Internet?
From our podcast Undiscovered: Meet the team of researchers that accidentally found out.
Creating The Never-Ending Bloom
Using meticulously crafted platforms, patterns, and layers, Edmark’s art explores the seemingly magical properties that are present in spiral geometries.
The Long Shot
More than two decades ago, a geologist traveled to Argentina to hunt for hidden craters. What he uncovered could change how we look for extraterrestrial life.
Hollywood Science
Science has been part of the silver screen since its inception. Ready to learn how? Better grab your popcorn.
Life Beyond Earth
We delve into the science of listening, and looking, for possibilities of life in the universe.
Tailgate Science
Hosting a game-day party? Have a ball with these tips on beer-brewing, barbecuing, and more.
Apply For The Science Friday Educator Collaborative!
Science Friday is looking to work with educators like you to create stellar STEM activities. Applications for the 2020 program are open!
Science Friday Live In Louisville
Ira and the gang are heading to Kentucky this November. Get your tickets!
From Undiscovered: Mouse’s Vineyard
Martha’s Vineyard has a Lyme disease problem. Now a scientist is coming to town with a possible fix: genetically engineered mice.
From Undiscovered: Kurt Vonnegut And The Rainmakers
In the mid 1940s, no one would publish Kurt Vonnegut’s stories. But when he gets hired as a press writer at General Electric, the company’s fantastical science inspires some of his most iconic novels.
From Undiscovered: The Wastebook
After a senator calls her research a waste of taxpayer dollars, biologist Sheila Patek heads to Capitol Hill to prove what her science is worth.
From Undiscovered: Six Degrees
Are you just six handshakes away from every other person on Earth? Two mathematicians set out to prove we’re all connected.