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April 26, 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.
12:08
In Defense Of ‘Out Of Place’ Plants
In her new book, Jessica J. Lee looks at how humans have moved plants around the globe–and how our migrations are intertwined with theirs.
17:29
The Complicated Truths About Offshore Wind And Right Whales
Officials say offshore wind turbines aren’t killing North Atlantic right whales. So why do so many people think otherwise?
17:17
Our Inevitable Cosmic Apocalypse
We revisit a 2020 interview with cosmologist Katie Mack about how the universe could end. Plus, remembering psychologist Daniel Kahneman.
16:41
The Bumpy Road To Approving New Alzheimer’s Drugs
After a controversial Alzheimer’s medication was discontinued, a new anti-amyloid drug receives extra scrutiny from the FDA.
11:39
UN Report Confirms 2023 Was Hottest Year On Record
The World Meteorological Organization’s report confirms last year had the highest temperatures on record and predicts an even hotter 2024.
17:09
Swimming Sea Lions Teach Engineers About Fluid Dynamics
Understanding how sea lions move through water could help engineers design better underwater vehicles.
12:16
Why This NASA Satellite Is Studying Plankton
NASA’s new PACE satellite will study how these tiny creatures could affect Earth’s climate, and how aerosols influence air quality.
17:30
The ‘Asteroid Hunter’ Leading The OSIRIS-REx Mission
In a new memoir, planetary scientist Dr. Dante Lauretta takes readers behind the scenes of a mission to secure a sample from the asteroid Bennu.
17:05
The Legacy Of Primatologist Frans de Waal
Dr. Frans de Waal, who died this month, helped humans understand the emotional lives of our closest living animal relatives.
16:54
Botanical Rescue Centers Take In Illegally Trafficked Plants
The U.S. Botanic Garden is one of 62 locations across the United States that rescue endangered species poached in the wild.