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April 18, 2025
Are traffic engineering decisions based on evidence-based research? Not as much as you might think. Plus, researchers captured the first confirmed video of a colossal squid swimming in its natural habitat. And, with brain-implanted devices, people with paralysis have been able to command computers to “move” virtual objects and speak for them.
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.
Ask a Quantum Mechanic
Teleporting data, time travel, quantum computers. Sci-fi or science reality? ‘Quantum mechanic’ Seth Lloyd joins us to talk about the mysteries of the quantum world.
A View from the Flip Side
Ten days is all it takes your brain to right a world that looks upside down.
Is It Possible to Create a Mind?
What does intelligence really mean? Can we build a machine that thinks as humans do?
How Science Can Keep Your Christmas Tree Merry and Bright
Rick Bates, of Penn State University, shares handy tips for how to care for your Christmas tree.
Alan Alda’s Challenge to Scientists: What Is Time?
Calling all scientists! How do you explain the concept of time to an 11-year-old?