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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.
29:51
The Best Science Beach Reads For Summer 2024
Discover new science reads for this summer with two authors and science writers familiar with the best books on the shelf.
12:09
A Sample From The Far Side Of The Moon Lands On Earth
China’s Chang’e 6 return capsule landed in Mongolia, carrying samples from the far side of the moon.
15:12
Study Shows Which Kids Are Getting Periods Younger Than Others
The age of first menstruation trended downward from 1950 to 2005, but more so among low-income kids and kids of color.
12:13
Will The Seine Be Clean Enough For Olympic Swimmers?
Paris has invested $1.5B in cleaning up the Seine for open-water swimming events, but recent tests indicate it’s not yet safe.
26:52
From Microbes To Mammoths: How Life Transformed The Planet
In “Becoming Earth,” author Ferris Jabr reexamines our relationship to Earth, and makes the case that Earth itself is alive.
7:23
Avoiding Grilling and Barbecue Pitfalls
Marinade myths, charcoal chemistry, and the elusive “smoke ring”—the science behind barbecue and grilling.
17:08
What To Do When Your Hypothesis Is Wrong? Publish!
In an effort to learn from scientific failure, The Journal of Trial Error only publishes “negative” results.
12:15
Yes, It’s Hot. But How Hot?
Researchers say the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature is a better indicator of heat stress.
16:16
Crowdsourced Data Identifies 126 ‘Lost’ Bird Species
Researchers analyzed photos, videos, and audio from crowdsource platforms to identify bird species that have not been spotted in over a decade.
12:04
A Canine Cancer Vaccine Shows Promising Results
Cancer is the leading cause of death in dogs. A new vaccine has increased survival rates in clinical trials, offering hope for dogs and humans.