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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.
6:50
Fixing ‘Misfolded’ Proteins for New Drug Treatments
Researchers were able to restore the function of incorrectly folded proteins in mice.
17:06
Dissecting America’s $3 Trillion Medical Bill
Steven Brill discusses “Bitter Pill,” his investigation of skyrocketing healthcare costs.
14:32
Speech Science: Tongue Twisters and Valley Girls
Unraveling the speech patterns behind tongue twisters and Valley girls. . .and boys.
15:02
Would More Technology Mean Safer Trains?
Seventy thousand miles of track will need to be outfitted with “positive train control” technology by 2015.
34:17
The Simpsons’ Secret? It’s Written by Math Geeks
The secret behind “The Simpsons”‘ math jokes? A writers’ room full of ex-mathematicians.
12:03
China Shoots ‘Jade Rabbit’ Rover to the Moon
BBC science editor David Shukman talks about the motivations behind China’s moonshot.
23:29
At STREB Action Lab, Dance and Physics Collide
Choreographer and gravity-junkie Elizabeth Streb pushes the boundaries of physics—with dance.
22:47
Eating ‘Wilder’ Foods for a Healthier Diet
Author Jo Robinson digs up tips on how to get the most nutrition out of our fruits and vegetables.
48:03
Annual Prizes Honor the Stranger Side of Science
The IgNobel Prizes salute unusual research, such as an investigation of dung beetle navigation.
16:31
Budget Cuts Leave Curiosity and Cassini in Limbo
Under NASA’s proposed 2013 budget, planetary science would receive $1.217 billion.