Stories
Science Friday is your trusted source for news and entertaining stories about science.
Does Breastfeeding Affect Intelligence?
Economist Emily Oster examines the questionable studies that have led to the myth that breastfeeding increases IQ.
Interview Highlights: Looking To Spongier Cities To Combat A Wetter Future
From “Sponge Cities” in China to small “pocket prairies” in Houston, cities are fortifying communities to better prepare for wetter environments.
A 19th-Century Expedition To The Rim Of A Volcano
In a new graphic novel, scientist and polymath Alexander von Humboldt leads an intrepid band of scientists to catalog traces of life in a barren land.
Science Friday Is Measuring ‘Degrees Of Change’—And We Need Your Help
Climate change is happening. Our new series ‘Degrees Of Change’ explores how we’re adapting to it.
Searching For Sakura
Collingwood Ingram became enamored of Japan’s cherry blossoms during his honeymoon. He would devote his career to saving them.
Where Does Black Hole Science Go After The First Picture Of One?
Researchers who worked on the Event Horizon Telescope have released the first image of a black hole’s shadow. Now what?
The Very First Image Of A Black Hole
After 20 years of coordinating a global network of radio dishes, the Event Horizon Telescope photographed the shadow of a black hole.
The Origin Of The Word ‘Seaborgium’
For 20 years, it was known simply as “element 106.”
Play Event Horizon Bingo!
Remember: When it comes to amazing science, we’re all winners.
SciFri Extra: Picturing A Black Hole
The Event Horizon Telescope aims to take an image of a black hole. In this archival interview, astronomers describe the project’s methods and goals.
Egghead: The Genius Of Birds
On August 29 in NYC, birds of a feather will nest together for this edition of the Science Friday Book Club, as we explore ‘The Genius of Birds.’
Science Friday Live In San Antonio
On Saturday, August 10, we’re heading to San Antonio, Texas to learn about local science.
Do Ice Baths Work?
Long story short, they may reduce pain, but they don’t speed the healing process.
Now Screening: Cephalopod Movie Night!
Cephalopod Movie Night returns! From June 21 to 28, celebrate our favorite undersea creatures with Science Friday at 10 cities across the nation.
Science Friday Live In Boulder
On Saturday June 15th, Ira Flatow and the Science Friday crew are heading to Boulder, Colorado.
Fifth Annual Science Friday Trivia Night!
On Wednesday, May 29, our fifth annual Science Friday Trivia Night returns to Brooklyn.
The Origin Of The Word ‘Mercury’
From ancient alchemists to Lewis and Clark, mercury has a storied history.
First Take With Science Friday In Huntsville
On May 21, enjoy “First Take With Science Friday,” live from Huntsville, Alabama!
The Language Of Calculus
Mathematician Steven Strogatz argues that “humans have used calculus to remake the world.”
‘My God, It’s Full Of Stars’
Read Poet Laureate Tracy K. Smith’s poems influenced by science.