June 27, 2025
In his new book, a former FDA commissioner unpacks the latest science on metabolism, weight loss, and how GLP-1 drugs actually work. Plus, the first images from the brand new Vera C. Rubin Observatory have finally been unveiled. And, researchers have observed a population of orcas that use kelp tools to scratch their backs.
Milking A Spider
Ever wondered how to milk a spider? In this video, Greta Binford, a researcher at Lewis and Clark College in Portland, Oregon, extracts venom from a sleeping spider’s fangs.
The Vampire Squid From Hell
Although its Latin name translates as “the vampire squid from hell,” the vampire squid is actually a gentle steward of the ocean’s depths, gracefully foraging on marine detritus.
Caring for Cuttlefish
Using recycled soda bottles, modified cradles, and knowledge of each species’ husbandry, the Monterey Bay Aquarium staff have nurtured to adulthood 95 percent of the cuttlefish eggs spawned.
Teaching Ancient Nautilus New Tricks
A series of experiments involving fish juice, blue lights, and mazes dispels the notion that the ancient Nautilus is incapable of basic learning and memory.
#CephalopodWeek: Celebrating All Things Tentacled
They’re the amazing cephalopods, and Science Friday, public radio’s source for news and entertaining stories about science, celebrates them with Cephalopod Week.
Chinook Salmon Could Make Splashy Return
Some scientists predict that record numbers of fall Chinook will return to the Columbia River Basin this year.
On the Oregon Truffle Scent
Oregon leads the country in commercial truffle production, boasting several native culinary varieties. And the best way to find them is to enlist the help of man’s best friend.
Smarty Pants: Testing the Quality of Textiles
Confidence in our clothing shouldn’t be taken for granted. It owes much to an oft-overlooked the field of study-textile quality assurance.
12:07
Rep. Rush Holt: Science and Congress
Representative Rush Holt talks about how ‘thinking like a scientist’ can help the political process.
25:48
Your Summer Science Book List
Lee Billings and Maria Popova compile your perfect summer science book list.
8:50
The Science of the ‘Brazuca’
How will the “Brazuca” fly? Scientists put the World Cup soccer ball through its paces.
12:19
Pre-Surgery Routine Needs an Update, Says Doc
Robert Cima of the Mayo Clinic says science doesn’t back up pre-surgical practices like fasting and colon cleanses.
17:20
Is NASA Ready To Make The Leap To A Manned Mission To Mars?
What technologies, budget, and partners would NASA needed for a successful manned mission to Mars?
16:34
‘Do Fathers Matter?’ Explores Dad’s Influence
In his new book, Paul Raeburn writes of the surprising biological and genetic connections fathers have with their children.
Proving Dad’s Worth (With Science)
An excerpt from “Do Fathers Matter?” by Paul Raeburn.
Have A Cricket Tell You The Temperature!
Investigate why crickets chirp. Then, using observations and math, learn how these insects can help you determine the temperature!
The Amazing, Flying Munk’s Devil Ray
This small ray can breach several feet into the air, causing a loud slapping sound upon its return to the ocean that has earned it the nickname “tortilla.”
11:47
The EPA’s New Proposal to Curb Carbon Emissions
The EPA’s proposal sets a 30 percent decrease in power plant carbon emissions by 2030.
30:24
It’s a Material World
In his book “Stuff Matters,” Mark Miodownik explains why the everyday materials around us are truly extraordinary.