Audio
Listen to Science Friday live on Fridays from 2-4 p.m. ET, or listen to our daily podcast
May 2, 2025
An astronomer explores the cosmos and the limits of what science can test. Plus, how the mysterious properties of pasta—like how it bends, coils, and breaks—have been tested by physicists for decades. And, millions of years ago, iguanas somehow got from North America to Fiji. Scientists think they made the trip on a raft of fallen vegetation.
17:33
Marie Curie And The Women Scientists Who Became Her Legacy
A new book looks at the life of Marie Curie through the lens of some of the 45 women who passed through her laboratory.
16:03
You Share Your Gut Microbiome With Your Friends
New research suggests that we share parts of our microbiome with people in our social networks beyond family members.
11:56
A Warning For When A Lithium-Ion Battery Is About To Explode
Damaged lithium-ion batteries can cause deadly explosions. An algorithm could help detect when they’re about to happen.
17:22
Protecting Against Poison Exposure This Holiday Season
It’s not poinsettias: A medical toxicologist discusses the most common household risks to kids during the holiday season.
17:20
2024’s Best Science Books For Kids
You asked for science book recommendations for the kids in your life. Two bookworm experts respond—and share their own favorites.
11:48
Alan Alda Reflects On Life With Parkinson’s
In a conversation from 2018, Alan Alda discusses how being a science communicator makes him think differently about a life-changing diagnosis.
17:38
A Nobel Prize For Chemistry Work ‘Totally Separate From Biology’
In a conversation from 2022, Dr. Carolyn Bertozzi discusses bioorthogonal chemistry, which could have applications in chemotherapy.
17:04
What Was It Like To Witness The End Of The Dinosaurs?
In a conversation from 2022, Riley Black discusses what happened after a massive asteroid hit Earth.
47:55
A Theatrical Tribute To Unexpected Science
This year’s Ig Nobel Prizes include awards for studying coin flipping, the movements of a dead trout, and more.
11:44
SpaceX’s Starship Completes In-Orbit Engine Test
This was the sixth test launch of the Starship vehicle, which could eventually carry humans and cargo to the moon. It was extremely loud.