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.
11:39
For a Greener Yard, Lose the Lawn
Swapping turf for less thirsty plants can reduce your yard’s water footprint and look just as lush.
10:27
Strengthening the Grid, Ten Years Later
How has the electrical grid changed since the massive blackout of 2003?
22:17
The STEM Gender Gap
Why hasn’t an increase in the number of female students studying the sciences led to proportional number of women in the STEM workforce?
12:05
Hyperloop: Hype or Future Transportation?
Elon Musk described his Hyperloop design as a cross between a “Concorde, a railgun, and an air hockey table.”
17:37
Climate Update: Warming Temperatures
A look at the social and environmental impacts of global warming worldwide.
17:47
Biting Into the First In Vitro Burger
A laboratory lunch over the first in vitro burger.
12:17
Flexible Insect Protein Inspires Super Rubber
Flexible insect protein surpasses the best synthetic rubbers.
11:23
Comet Dust Brings a Spectacular Sky Show
The annual Perseid meteor shower, produced by remnants of the Swift-Tuttle comet, is back.
23:01
Reading, Writing, ‘Rithmetic . . . and Respect?
Some experts say teaching emotional literacy in school is key to better behavior—and better grades.