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Listen to Science Friday live on Fridays from 2-4 p.m. ET
February 28, 2025
A federal DEI ban is already prompting changes across science agencies. How will it affect medical research? A journalist traveled to five continents to learn about the afterlife of our trash, and why most “recyclable” plastic actually isn’t. And, the ocean liner SS United States will become an artificial reef in Florida. How do artificial reefs work?
11:21
What Role Does Partisanship Play Outside of the Polls?
How much of a role does political bias play in daily life outside of the polls?
4:28
Something’s in the Air—It’s Your Microbial Cloud
Even sitting quietly in a room can generate a personalized cloud of microbes.
11:46
Americas Brace for Zika Spread
The typically-mild Zika virus is the top suspect in Brazil’s microcephaly epidemic. Where did it come from, and what can we expect as the outbreak unfolds?
17:22
For Planet-Seekers, a Cautionary Tale
The tale of the planet Vulcan’s “discovery”—and destruction at the hands of Einstein—may hold lessons for today’s planet-hunters.
16:49
Confessions of a Meteorite Hunter
Meteorite hunter Nina Lanza reports back from six weeks scouring the Antarctic ice for space rocks.
12:07
PCB Contamination, Space Flowers, and Python Removal
High levels of toxic polychlorinated biphenyls are showing up in European marine mammals. Plus, a look at the pros and cons of a public python removal competition.
12:09
To Compose the Perfect Bite, Listen to Your Food
Dan Pashman, host of WNYC’s The Sporkful podcast, tells us how sound can influence the taste of your food, prevent cooking mishaps, and help you to compose the perfect bite.
7:22
Digging Deep Into the Crust of the Earth
Researchers are drilling through the earth’s crust to learn about the formation of the planet.
8:43
Read ‘On the Move’ With the #SciFriBookClub
The SciFri Book Club celebrates Oliver Sacks’ literary legacy by reading his autobiography, “On the Move.”
17:13
Somewhere Out There, Planet Nine
Researchers calculate that there may be a large undiscovered ninth planet lurking in the distant reaches of our solar system.