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.
4:22
How To Create Your Own Holiday Scent Memories
Why our brains connect smells to memories—and how to capture your favorite seasonal scents.
13:08
Caroling With COVID-19
Researchers tested a variety of face masks to find ones that least distorted a singer’s voice.
17:10
Exploring The Body’s Hidden Wonders, From The Inside Out
Dr. Jonathan Reisman considers the human body as an ecosystem in his new book.
17:28
The Webb Telescope Is Counting Down To Liftoff
The next-generation space telescope—over 20 years in the making—could finally launch next week.
The Best Of Science Friday, 2021
These are the science stories that moved and inspired us this year, made and selected by Science Friday’s staff.
Wondrous Beauty Made From Dead Insects
Artist Jennifer Angus creates a celebration of cicadas and insects in her eye-catching collages and dioramas.
11:34
How America Is Preparing For Another Pandemic Winter
Plus, a look at the complicated world of conserving the vaquita, a rare marine mammal.
35:00
Three Plant-Based Chemicals That Can Change Your Brain
Author Michael Pollan examines opium, caffeine, and mescaline in his new book on the mind-altering powers of plants.
12:02
The Why Of Vocal Fry
Vocal fry has been around for ages. Why are people suddenly so bothered by it?
10:09
Tribal Concerns Grow As Water Levels Drop In The Colorado River Basin
Historically excluded from negotiations, Indigenous communities want to make sure they have a seat at the water-distributing table.
24:22
Space Tourists, Asteroids, And Anti-Satellite Tests, Oh My!
A trio of stellar space reporters round up 2021’s out-of-this-world headlines.
Michael Pollan On Plants That Change Our Minds, From Tea To Peyote
In a new book, Michael Pollan explores why some psychoactive plants are socially acceptable, which aren’t, and how those norms are changing.
A Tour Through Maria Ferreira’s Crystal Gardens
Blending chemistry, physics, and animation, artist Maria Constanza Ferreira grows tiny gardens of crystals to create dazzling images.
Vocal Fry: Why I’m Not Getting A Voice Coach
Vocal fry has been around for ages. So why are people suddenly so bothered by it?
10:18
Travel Bans Do Little To Slow Spread Of Omicron
As cases of the new variant appear globally, vaccination is a key strategy to prevent future mutations.
1:44
Alvin Lucier, Composer At The Intersection Of Science And Sound, Dead At 90
A giant figure in experimental music, who composed with brain waves, room resonances, and a curiosity about the world around us.
26:09
Ralph Nader Reflects On His Auto Safety Campaign, 55 Years Later
Over the last half-century, auto safety has drastically advanced, thanks in part to Nader’s groundbreaking investigation.
8:09
New Drug Reverses Paralysis In Mice With Spinal Cord Injuries
After receiving an injection of “dancing molecules,” paralyzed mice were able to walk again.
17:10
Decoding Quantum Computing
The disruptive technology of quantum computing could be a game-changer.
9:54
Diving Into The Strange World Of Xenobots
Structures designed by an algorithm transform frog embryo cells into structures that can swim.