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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.
8:42
Amyloid Proteins Help Paralyzed Mice Walk Again
Scientists say the proteins, once thought to be enemies of the nervous system, may actually be protective ‘guardians.’
4:17
Building Synthetic Tissues from Water Droplets?
Researchers turned tiny water droplets into cooperating networks that can change shape and pass electrical signals.
7:32
President Obama Calls for a ‘BRAIN Initiative’
NIH Director Francis Collins discusses President Obama’s new ‘BRAIN Initiative’ research program.
23:32
‘Drunk Tank Pink’ Finds Clues to Behavior
In his new book, Adam Alter examines the way labels, symbols, and colors can affect human behavior.
9:55
Tracking a Rise in ADHD Diagnosis
Researchers work to understand what might be behind a surge in diagnoses of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.
9:34
Studying Rocks Found on Earth for Clues About Space
We’ll take a tour of the Center for Meteorite Studies, and learn how meteorites can teach us about the history of the solar system.
36:35
Gripping Science Tales Need Not Be Science Fiction
How can scientists tell compelling stories without hyping or distorting the science?
15:59
How Cosmic Collisions Have Shaped Our Solar System
Some of our solar system’s landmarks can trace their origins to massive impacts.
30:36
The Secret Life of the Sonoran Desert
We check in on the Gila monsters, saguaros, and microbial crusts living in the desert Southwest.
16:24
Project Seeks to Bring Extinct Species Back to Life
Michael Archer, leader of the “Lazarus Project,” describes early efforts to bring a frog species back from extinction.