Audio
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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.
23:48
Keeping an Eye on Eruptions Around the World
At least 20 volcanoes are probably erupting as you read these words.
16:57
Randall Munroe Asks, ‘What If?’
In his new book “What If?”, xkcd comic artist Randall Munroe answers his readers’ hypothetical questions with math and science.
9:41
Hello, Stranger, Wanna Share a Cab?
Researchers found that potentially 95 percent of cab rides in New York City could have been shared.
7:25
From Exotic Garden to Eco-Haven
A former millionaire’s estate is becoming an environmental haven and training ground.
11:44
The Wilderness Act Turns 50
Fifty years ago this week, legislation set aside over nine million acres of official wilderness.
33:47
To Master Test Material, Give Your Brain a Break
Salvador Dali and Thomas Edison took very brief naps when they were stuck on artistic and scientific problems.
11:42
Supermassive Dinosaur Would Have ‘Feared Nothing’
Scientists estimate the dinosaur Dreadnoughtus schrani would have weighed as much as a Boeing 737.
11:55
Experimental Therapy Saves Monkeys From Deadly Dose of Ebola
ZMapp, the cocktail of antibodies used to treat two American aid workers infected with the Ebola virus, spared 18 severely ill monkeys from death.
17:22
Making Hollywood’s Digital Doubles
Now that Hollywood’s visual effects wizards can create convincing “digital actors,” will we still need the real thing?
17:23
Science In The Writers’ Room
Hollywood T.V. and film writers explain how they balance scientific accuracy and storytelling.