February 7, 2025
Some research shows that e-cigarettes can be a useful tool for quitting cigarettes, but that strategy is hotly contested by scientists. Plus, an investigative journalist outlines how fraud and misconduct have stalled the search for effective Alzheimer’s treatments in a new book. And, why snow has that crisp, clean smell.
Scale Solar System Orbits—And Satellites!
Use planetary orbits and scale ratios to plan flight paths to other planets.
7:33
Kepler Ends Its Search For Planets Like Earth
After nine years, the Kepler space telescope will soon be shut down permanently
34:26
Dolphins Are Changing Their Calls Due To Boat Noise
Bottlenose dolphins in the Atlantic ocean off the coast of Maryland were simplifying the calls due to noisier oceans.
11:58
One Small Step For Man, One Giant Leap For Paralysis Treatment
Three new studies show rapid progress of paralyzed patients using spinal cord stimulation.
10:52
How Does The Appendix Play A Role In Parkinson’s Disease?
A study found that there was a three and a half year delay in onset of Parkinson’s for those who had their appendix removed.
23:47
The ‘Wet-Dog Shake’ And Other Physics Mysteries
In his book ‘How to Walk on Water and Climb Up Walls,’ David Hu explores the wonders of the animal world.
34:26
The Science Issues Happening In Your Backyard
A state-by-state tour of the top science issues, from energy policy, pollution problems, water conservation, to meat labeling, and much more.
Why Your Dog Is More Efficient Than A Laundry Machine
In this excerpt from ‘How to Walk on Water and Climb Up Walls,’ David Hu explains why the wet-dog shake is so efficient.
Help SciFri Track The ‘Flu Near You’
SciFri and Flu Near You are teaming up to track the flu.
What’s The Most Important Science Issue To You In Your State?
Tell us what local science issue you care most about!
7:49
There Are Microplastics In Our Poop. Is It Bad For Us?
The invisible plastic particles in our poop. Plus organic food and health, changing hurricane patterns, and the waters of Mars.
4:19
Crowdfunding Can Lead To Sketchy Medicine
A survey of crowdfunding sites found campaigns raising funds for scientifically unsupported, ineffective, or potentially dangerous medical treatments.
9:39
Breathing Through Your Nose Helps You Remember Better
The olfactory system has privileged access to the regions of your brain that control memory and emotion.
6:39
The Math That May Save Democracy
Statistics are at the center of a case that pits voters against unfairly gerrymandered districts in this episode of
“Undiscovered.”
12:11
Self-Driving Cars Are Bringing The Trolley Problem Into The Real World
How can autonomous car makers develop ethical vehicles when ethics are different across cultural lines?
27:02
Science Goes To The Movies: ‘First Man’
We gather a panel of space experts to discuss the new movie. Plus, what are the stories that Hollywood could tell about space that we haven’t heard yet?
6:52
The Love Songs Of The Japanese Rhinoceros Beetle
You might know the horned male Japanese rhinoceros beetles for being ruthless fighters. But they also sing songs to win over potential mates.
17:15
The Mysterious Power Of Blood
Blood banks, taboos, and other ways that humans have tried to harness the power of blood.
The Problem With The Plasma
In this excerpt from “Nine Pints,” Rose George explains how issues with the 1970s American plasma led to a contaminated supply.
Beetle Royale
For some rhino beetles, winning a battle doesn’t mean winning the war over a female’s heart.