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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.
11:12
Volcano ‘Screams’ Before Eruption
Some volcanoes experience a large number of pre-eruption earthquakes.
12:03
Trying to Energize the Push for a Smart Grid
Can the country build an electrical system that can better adapt to a range of changing conditions?
8:21
Mysterious Radio Bursts, Sent From Deep Space
Physicists say the distant radio blasts could be traces of evaporating black holes.
16:48
Surf’s Up for Pathogenic Viruses and Bacteria, Too
A gulp of seawater can expose swimmers to pathogens like norovirus, salmonella, and adenovirus.
8:22
Tracking Shifting Sands Along the Nation’s Coast
Hurricane Sandy tore through New York’s Fire Island, setting off debate about coastal management.
5:50
Desktop Diaries: Jill Tarter
“People have described my office as an eight-year-old’s daydream,” says SETI scientist Jill Tarter.
10:38
U.K. Team Plans E.T. Search
A newly formed group in the UK will join the search for extraterrestrial intelligence.
21:11
Protecting Your Online Privacy
Worried about your online privacy? There are services that can help secure your information.
8:27
Not-So-Sweet Side Effects of Artificial Sweeteners
Artificial sweeteners may negatively affect how the body metabolizes sweet foods.
23:29
Benjamin Franklin’s Intellectual Revolution
Benjamin Franklin pushed innovations that set the groundwork for the political and intellectual revolution in America.