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Science Friday is your trusted source for news and entertaining stories about science.
How Does ‘Brexit’ Affect Science?
In the lead-up to the Brexit vote, 13 Nobel Prize winners warned that departing the EU would be bad for British scientific research.
Why You Don’t Want to Get Stung by a Tarantula Hawk
Biologist and author Justin O. Schmidt tells the story of getting stung by a tarantula hawk, whose sting is extremely excruciating.
This Cuttlefish Dazzles
Internet chatter suggests that the flamboyant cuttlefish—known for ambling along the seafloor and flashing brilliant displays—is toxic. What does the science say?
The Rare Sight Of A Brooding Squid
This cephalopod will carry and brood its eggs for several months, without feeding.
Secrets of Cephalopod Camouflage
Ethologist Roger Hanlon has devoted a career to studying how octopuses, squid, and cuttlefish become inconspicuous.
The Technology That’s Changing the Future of Human Reproduction
Author Hank Greely on how humans will conceive and reproduce in the brave new world ahead of us.
Don’t Eat This Tomato
This Australian tomato enclosed inside a spiky burr is no tasty treat, according to researchers.
From Chicken Guns to Testing Cobra Venom: The Strange World of Military Science
Author Mary Roach dives into the odd and fascinating experiments conducted by the military.
How Do Scientists Create A Vegan Alternative To Beef?
Beyond Meat says that its new plant-based burger cooks and tastes just like beef.
What’s the Best Way to Lose Weight and Keep It Off?
A new study on contestants from “The Biggest Loser” found that dramatic weight loss led to a surprising slowdown in metabolism.
Coral Sperm Banks: A Safety Net for Reefs?
Marine biologist Mary Hagedorn is carefully freezing and storing coral sperm for safekeeping.
In Your Own Words: Imaginary Friends
SciFri fans share anecdotes about their imaginary companions.
What Should I Do If My Child Has an Imaginary Friend?
More than half of kids between ages 3 and 8 will have an imaginary companion at some point. Here’s what parents should know.
The Truth About Imaginary Friends
Developmental psychologist Marjorie Taylor has turned our understanding of imaginary companions upside down.
Are We Smart Enough to Understand How Smart Animals Are?
Primatologist Frans de Waal makes a case for animal intelligence.
Dive Into the World of Imaginary Friends
What may seem like whimsical creations are much more than child’s play.
What’s the Deal With Kepler?
We break down Kepler’s achievements and what’s coming next.
Tracing Mental Illness Through a Family History
Author Siddhartha Mukherjee outlines his family’s genetic history with mental illness.