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.
17:01
Science Journalism Is Shrinking–Along With Public Trust In Science
In 2023, a flood of science journalists lost their jobs. At the same time, public trust in science continues to decline.
8:35
To Get Ready For Mars, NASA Studies How The Body Changes In Space
Spending time in space affects everything from eyesight to bone health. NASA’s CIPHER program will measure these changes and more.
8:15
Lion’s Mane Mushrooms Improve Memory, Study Finds
Mice fed with the mushroom had better hippocampal memory—a result that may guide new treatments for dementia.
34:25
Orchids, Snails, And Wolves: The Ongoing Benefit Of The Endangered Species Act
The Endangered Species Act established protections for plant and animal species at risk of extinction. It’s still working 50 years later.
Test Your Taste Receptors With Spicy Treats
Discover the science behind foods that make your tongue tingle. Experiment with spiced beverages that activate your mouth’s TRP receptors.
12:10
Unmasking Owls’ Mysteries
Jennifer Ackerman’s book delves into these fascinating avian predators, including their supersonic hearing, quiet flight, and complex communication.
32:57
A Mathematician Asks ‘Is Math Real?’
When math is based on abstract concepts, how do we know it’s correct? Dr. Eugenia Cheng takes on that question in a new book.
28:45
Star Trek’s Science Advisor Reveals The Real Astrophysics On Screen
Astrophysicist Dr. Erin Macdonald talks about consulting on the famous series and the real (and fictional) science on screen.
8:08
The Science Behind Your Unraveling Sweaters
A textile professor and knit expert explains why many sweaters today are of poorer quality than sweaters in the past.
7:38
Why It Feels So Good To Eat Chocolate
An artificial tongue helps researchers understand how texture impacts what people like about chocolate.
The Delightfully Silly Science Comics Of Rosemary Mosco
Nature cartoonist Rosemary Mosco shares her process about how she dreams up scenes from the funny side of science.
12:12
The Top Science News Stories of 2023
This year brought us new vaccines, a highly anticipated asteroid sample, and an update to T. rex’s smile.
5:42
Solar Panels In Historic Cape Cod: Who Decides Where ‘Modern’ Fits?
Local historic committees in Cape Cod are blocking some residents from installing solar panels, citing visual impact on the neighborhood.
11:53
‘Dark Fungi’ Species Don’t Get Names. Should They?
Scientists have recovered the DNA of thousands of new species of fungi from the environment, but they aren’t eligible for scientific names.
16:03
Music’s Emotional Power Can Shape Memories—And Your Perception Of Time
Researchers used music to elicit different emotions, then looked at how shifts in emotion influenced participants’ memory formation.
16:58
The Unseen World Of Seaweeds
A new book celebrates the beautiful and underappreciated seaweeds shaping coastlines around the world.
29:36
How ‘Panda Diplomacy’ Led To Conservation Success
For decades, panda policy has guided conservation advancements. Now, pandas in the US are being returned to China.
The Best Of Science Friday, 2023
This year science reached new frontiers, and our coverage followed suit. Our staff—and audience—share their favorite SciFri creations of 2023.
Crafting Inclusive Narratives: The Role Of Sensitivity Consultation In Media Design
We share what we learned about how to design accessible media when telling stories about the deaf community.
11:57
Climate Conference Ends, With Few Immediate Results
COP28 ended with an agreement calling for a transition away from fossil fuels, but critics say it’s too little, too late.