Step Into a Hive
Wolfgang Buttress’ giant sculpture interprets the activity of a real beehive.
11:59
Supercomputer Rankings, ‘Frankenturtles,’ and Psychology of Self-Driving Cars
China tops the list of the world’s most powerful supercomputers, and the psychological toll of autonomous vehicles.
11:43
Tracking Nighttime Bird Migrations, by Sound
Researchers are trying to build a network of computerized sensors that identify birds based on the short chirps they make while in flight.
23:52
Predicting the Car (and Fuel) of the Future
Will electric cars ever be popular? A trip into the Science Friday archives for a look at the rise of alternative-fuel vehicles.
Discuss the Applications and Implications of Metal Foam
What responsibility, if any, do scientists and the public have to make sure new technologies are developed for the purpose of good? Have students discuss this issue by brainstorming possible uses for a new metal foam and then deciding who should address unintended uses of that technology.
11:56
Human-Like Hobbits, Spitting Fish, and Arecibo’s Uncertain Future
The origin of the human-like “hobbit” H. floresiensis, and the future of an iconic telescope.
12:07
Google Doodles Add Some Science History to Your Search
Google Doodle team lead Ryan Germick shares the stories behind some of the search engine’s geekiest “doodles.”
9:40
Melding Biology and Chemistry in a ‘Bionic Leaf’
A “bionic leaf” combines advanced catalysts with engineered bacteria to produce hydrocarbon fuels from light, water, and carbon dioxide.
23:03
Stink Bombs, Submarine Safety, and the Science of Soldiering
In “Grunt,” author Mary Roach looks at the technology used to battle disease, shock, and exhaustion in the ranks.
10:15
The Hyperloop: From Pipe Dream to Possible
Inside the race to realize Elon Musk’s vision of tube-based transport.