On Today's Podcast
NASA Employees Protest Cuts In Formal Dissent Letter
Retired astronaut Cady Coleman explains why she felt compelled to sign “The Voyager Declaration.”
Listen NowJuly 25, 2025
Newly released images from the Parker Solar Probe are so detailed that scientists can see explosions and the flow of solar winds. Plus, menopause research began in earnest about 30 years ago. Two experts want you to know that we’ve actually learned a lot—and it’s not all bad. And, how fast did dinosaurs run? A longstanding equation for dino speed may be wrong.
26:55
How The Moon Transformed Life On Earth, From Climate to Timekeeping
A new book explores how the moon changed us—and how we’ve changed the moon.
10:08
Using AI To Help Find Ancient Artifacts In The Great Lakes
Researchers in Michigan modeled a prehistoric land bridge and used AI to predict where caribou–and humans–might have traveled along it.
6:51
An Artist Combines Indigenous Textiles With Modern Tech
Artist Sarah Rosalena uses Indigenous weaving, ceramics, and sculpture practices to create art that challenges tech’s future.
32:31
From Scans To Office Visits: How Will AI Shape Medicine?
Scientists are testing artificial intelligence’s ability to read imaging results, make diagnoses, and more. Listeners call in.
A World Apart: The Human Relationship With The Moon
In the book ‘Our Moon,’ Rebecca Boyle describes the intertwined existence of humanity and the moon in sharp detail.
The Absurdity—And Difficulty—Of Writing About The Dead
“There is nothing amusing about being dead,” Mary Roach writes. But how can one inject humor and levity while writing about cadaver science?
11:35
NASA Once Again Delays Artemis Crewed Missions To the Moon
With this week’s delays to Artemis II and III, astronauts likely won’t walk on the moon until 2026 at the earliest.
11:59
Top Technologies To Watch In 2024
Weight-loss drugs, AI, clean-energy tech and more: digging into MIT Technology Review’s annual list with executive editor Amy Nordrum.
13:20
Brain ‘Organoids’: Lab-Grown Cell Clusters Model Brain Functions
Scientists can coax stem cells into clusters that mimic the functions of brain regions, which could help us understand brain disorders.
19:49
3,000 Types Of Brain Cells Categorized In Massive Brain Cell Atlas
The new atlas catalogs cell types by the genes they express, which could help medical researchers tailor treatments.
33:06
How Close Are We To Answers About Aliens?
Dr. Adam Frank discusses the human fascination with extraterrestrial life—and the scientific search for it—in his new book.
Are We Alone? Science Searches For Aliens
From biosignatures in exoplanet atmospheres to radio telescope arrays, science is searching for extraterrestrial life.
Why A Scientist Made A Graphic Novel About Understanding Physics
In “The Dialogues,” a graphic novel by theoretical physicist Clifford Johnson, the superheroes are scientists—and they’ll teach you a thing or two about physics.
12:07
Solar Activity Flares Up In 2024
Look out for a total solar eclipse, more solar flares, and the Parker Solar Probe’s closest approach to the sun.
12:03
Could Underground Hydrogen Reserves Put Clean Energy Within Reach?
Underground hydrogen stores have raised renewable energy hopes, but can the industry overcome the logistical hurdles of distributing it?
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.