Episodes

Officials in China have quarantined two large cities, where some 20 million people live, over fears of a novel virus outbreak. Plus, an investigation finds that almost a third of registered drug studies are not reporting data to the government.

With the 2020 presidential primaries close by, how has technology changed the way pollsters poll? And can these new polls be trusted? Plus, the math behind big decision making.

The SciFri Bookclub is back! Meet the heroes, villains, and sheer blunders that changed the world’s largest lakes forever in Dan Egan’s ‘The Life and Death of the Great Lakes.’ Plus, why the future holds more destructive fire seasons for Australia and the rest of the globe.

Why large-scale geoengineering should be part of the conversation about stopping climate change—and why changing the planet might also mean changing us. Plus, the next addition to our charismatic creature series: the Tasmanian tiger.

The science news that made headlines in 2019. Plus, looking back at the “pale blue dot.”

In this chapter of Science Friday’s Degrees of Change series, Ira and guests look at how the transportation industry is adapting to the changing climate. Plus, due to high costs and other barriers, patients are turning to each other online to share and exchange insulin.

We take a look at the best science books and board games of 2019. Plus, the first data from the Parker Solar Probe mission shines light on the mysteries of the star at the center of our galaxy.

What science fiction and social science can contribute to how we think about our algorithmic present and future. Plus, a look at the wee beasties living in your pores. And a trip to the 2019 Ig Nobel Prize Ceremony: a tribute to quirky scientific studies.

Science Friday’s Degrees of Change series continues, with scientists working to repair and rebuild the world’s endangered coral reefs. Plus, a new play unveils Marie Curie’s humanity—and introduces us to one of her closest friends.