December 3, 2021
Scientists are rushing to understand the latest Omicron COVID variant. We talk what’s known about it and what isn’t. Plus, a breakdown of quantum computing. And a reflection from Ralph Nader on his auto safety campaign after 55 years.
10:06
On Long Island, A Tribal Nation Faces Growing Pressures
A new podcast from WSHU Public Radio explores the intersection of Native American territory, climate change, and suburbia in one of the wealthiest parts of the East Coast.
1:53
The World According To Sound: Listening To Lightning
The podcast ‘World According To Sound’ shows how there is more than one way to listen to a bolt of lightning.
17:30
Save The Wetlands, Save The World
Ecologists explain why tidal marshes are “the most valuable ecosystem you’ve never heard of,” and how to save them from rising seas.
7:23
This Weekend, Take Time For The Moon
From the Orionid meteor shower to International Observe The Moon Night, it’s a great weekend to look up.
17:11
Indigenous-Led Biology, Designed For Native Communities
Biological samples have been used for purposes that don’t benefit indigenous people. The Native BioData Consortium is working to change that.
9:39
Widening The Lens On A More Inclusive Science
Indigenous peoples have been observing the world for thousands of years. Why are they still underrepresented in science?
12:08
First Malaria Vaccine Is Approved by WHO
The parasite kills half a million people per year. How a malaria vaccine could save lives.
17:11
Will Improved Testing And New Antivirals Change The Pandemic’s Path?
As the government plans to spend $1 billion on at-home testing, a science reporter and an epidemiologist unpack this week’s pandemic news.
16:52
Preparing For The Next Pandemic Needs To Start Now
The U.S. was woefully unprepared for COVID-19, thanks to longstanding issues. Can we change before the next pandemic?
16:33
See A Familiar Face? Thank These Brain Cells
Researchers have found a group of neurons that seem tuned to respond specifically to the faces of those you know.
39:09
The Hot And Cold Past Of The Air Conditioner
From the 1904 World’s Fair to deadly heat waves, take a look back at more than a century of AC.
12:03
Healthcare Is Hard Enough To Get. If You’re A Trans Youth, It’s Even Harder
A new study highlights the variety of barriers that impact trans youth seeking care, from legal obstacles to stigma from doctors.
17:06
See A Spotted Lanternfly? Squash It!
The invasive and damaging pest has carved out a foothold on the East Coast—and experts worry it could spread.
14:52
As Primates Go Extinct, So Do Their Parasites, Upsetting Ecosystems
As endangered primates disappear, so do their parasites. That could have big ecological consequences.
2:02
The World According To Sound: How Spiders Shake Things Up For Love
Listen to researchers share how spiders woo their partners, and join a worldwide listening party.
29:09
Looking Back On A Century of Science
The archives of Science News offer a window into how science has progressed and changed over a hundred years.
4:51
Who Will Sweep The Charismatic Creature Carnival?
Will the mantis shrimp, opossum, or shoebill stork come out on top? The choice is up to you.
12:25
When The Water Comes
The Science Friday Book Club is discussing how communities are responding to sea level rise with author Elizabeth Rush.
11:59
Ice-Hunting Lunar Rover Robot Gets A Landing Site
NASA chose a landing site for its first-ever robotic moon rover, VIPER, slated to launch in 2023 to look for ice near the lunar south pole.