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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.
‘Consider the Fork’ Chronicles Evolution of Eating
Author Bee Wilson examines how changing kitchen tools have influenced what, and how, we eat.
Chef Jack Bishop Breaks Down ‘The Science of Good Cooking’
America’s Test Kitchen chef Jack Bishop explains how science can sharpen your cooking skills.
Future Fibers May Be Spun From Slime
The hagfish or “slime eel” shoots out slime containing silk-like fibers of remarkable strength.
Shooting Stars: Capturing the Night on Camera
Photographer Colin Legg makes time-lapse movies of celestial scenes.
The SciFri Book Club Tours ‘The Planets’
The book club reviews Dava Sobel’s 2005 homage to the solar system.
Debunking Doomsday and Exploring Maya Science
Two archaeologists weigh in on what the ancient Maya actually said about 2012. Spoiler: not much.
Stem Cells Treat Lou Gehrig’s Disease, In Mice
Stem cell implants slowed the onset of symptoms—and scientists say human trials aren’t far behind.
Birding for the Holidays
Thousands of citizen scientists are taking part in the annual Audubon Christmas Bird Count.
Could Life Exist on Newfound Alien Planet?
Astronomer Steven Vogt discusses a new discovery of a potentially habitable exoplanet.
‘Instant’ Looks at Polaroid’s Land
Edwin Land, the inventor behind Polaroid, is the subject of a new book by Christopher Bonanos.