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May 3, 2024
This week, Science Friday is in Ames, Iowa, home to prairies, greater prairie chickens, and an array of wildlife. Plus, the co-emergence of two periodical cicada broods is underway. Scientists have tips for how to experience the event. And, as the “Universe of Art” podcast turns one, listeners discuss solar music boxes and what it’s like making art with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.
The Renaissance Man Who Got It All Wrong
In A Man of Misconceptions, John Glassie writes of the priest-scientist Athanasius Kircher.
Book Challenges Kids With Science-Based Mysteries
A father/daughter team has written a series of brain-teasers for science-minded students.
Get the Most Bang from Your Bubbly
Chemist Richard Zare pores over the science of bubbles—from champagne fizz to beer foam.
‘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.