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.
12:13
Americans’ Knowledge Of Reproductive Health Is Limited
As the nation awaits a momentous Supreme Court decision, a poll looks at opinions of and knowledge about reproductive health issues.
9:51
Some Doctors Want To Change How Race Is Used In Medicine
Race is often conflated with biology in medicine. A more nuanced approach is emerging: using culturally competent care in treatment.
7:32
How A $2 Billion U.S. Plan To Save Salmon In The Northwest Is Failing
Despite billions of federal subsidies, salmon survival is predicted to decline by 90% in the next four decades.
16:42
How A Facebook Group Helps People Identify Mysterious Mushrooms
Over 200 international mycologists and botanists volunteer their time to help identify poisonous plants and mushrooms in a Facebook group.
12:08
Are Invasive Jumping Worms Taking Over?
This destructive earthworm may not harm your garden, but scientists are worried about its impacts on ecosystems.
17:29
Plastic Surgery, Born In The Trenches
A new book explores the surprising roots of facial reconstruction surgery—the battlefields of World War I.
17:33
The Strange, Scrambled Genomes Of Squids And Octopuses
For Cephalopod Week, two researchers explain the newest science about the fancy tricks and ineffable weirdness of these animals.
World War I’s Operation Face Lift
Medical historian and author Lindsey Fitzharris explores the history of facial reconstruction surgery, starting with a ballerina’s rump.
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12:13
Scientists Found The Biggest Known Plant On Earth
Scientists discovered that a 49,000 acre seagrass meadow off the coast of Australia is actually one giant plant.
11:26
Building A Better Battery… Using Plastic?
A startup is trying to launch new battery technology that could help store renewable energy. But don’t expect one in your cell phone.
6:11
Bug Off: Why Mosquitoes Have An Annoyingly Amazing Sense Of Smell
When scientists tried to mess with mosquitoes’ sense of smell, these pesky insects found another way to sniff out their next meal.
12:48
So You Think You Know About Sex
A new book, “Been There, Done That: A Rousing History of Sex,” will make you question what you thought you knew about sex.
4:43
Processing Postpartum With AI And Synthetic Breast Milk Art
Using synthetic breast milk and a 3D-printed pig uterus, artist Ani Liu processes her postpartum period—and the people that helped her through it.
12:06
20,000 Viruses Under The Sea: Mapping The Ocean’s Viral Ecosystem
A motherlode of RNA viruses collected from the ocean contains thousands of new species and vast genetic diversity.
6:24
How Recreational Weed Transformed A Small California Town
Woodlake, CA has no stoplights, one fast-food restaurant, and seven cannabis businesses.
25:55
Meet The Doctor Trying To Bring Medical Marijuana Into The Mainstream
Dr. Kogan is trying to inform doctors about cannabis’ potential as a medical treatment for illnesses ranging from cancer to Alzheimer’s.
1:52
The World According to Sound: Listening to WiFi
Audio art that makes us consider the invisible streams of data that permeate our world.
How Sexual Intercourse Was Invented, 385 Million Years Ago
Okay, but how exactly did sex come about? Science journalist Rachel Feltman dives into the saucy science of doing it.
5:13
Gun Violence Is A Public Health Issue
Research on gun violence was frozen for years. Now that funding is available, a look at what scientists are studying.