Radio
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?
What Put the Heat in Chili Peppers?
New research indicates that chili pepper plants may have developed their signature heat as a way to fight off fungal infections caused by insects.
Looking Inside the Human Brain
What’s really going on inside your head? We’ll talk with scientists using functional magnetic resonance imaging to study the workings of the human brain.
Building Social Robots
Sure, robots can weld car parts or stack cartons on an assembly line. But can they develop friendships with people? In this hour, Ira talks with inventors developing robots with personalities. How soon will it be before social, lovable robots enter our homes?
Oliver Sacks: ‘Musicophilia’
How does music affect the brain? Join Ira in this segment for a conversation with neurologist and author Oliver Sacks about the brain and music.
Sputnik Anniversary
Fifty years ago, a little beeping ball stunned the world. Join Ira Flatow in this hour of Science Friday for a look back at Sputnik and its effect on the way we look at the world.