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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.
9:12
What Pulled the Plug on the Bioluminescent Bay?
The glowing bioluminescent bay near Fajardo, Puerto Rico went dark for more than a week in November.
24:53
Meet Vermeer, the Engineer
A new documentary, “Tim’s Vermeer,” shows that the Dutch master painter was a tinkerer, too.
11:36
Greenland’s Fast-Moving Glacier Speeds Up
The Jakobshavn glacier reached speeds of more than 150 feet per day during the summer of 2012.
16:53
Alan Alda’s Challenge to Scientists: Define Color
Alda’s ‘Flame Challenge’ asks scientists to explain color—with children as the judges.
29:15
At Sundance, Scientists and Screenwriters Are Judges
What makes science work on-screen? This year’s Sundance judges weigh in.
34:21
Could There Be a Crisis in Physics?
Physicist Lawrence Krauss and Nobel Laureates Frank Wilczek and Brian Schmidt discuss current cosmic challenges.
12:12
Hotter Weather, Heavier Rains Threaten Penguins
Move over polar bears—could penguins be the new poster children for climate change?
17:04
James Dyson: ‘Failures Are Interesting’
Inventor James Dyson built 5,127 prototypes before completing his first bagless vacuum.
30:01
A ‘Personal’ Computer Turns 30
On January 24, 1984, Steve Jobs unveiled the Macintosh computer to the world.
