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.
What Happens If The US Leaves The Paris Climate Deal?
One way is fast and dramatic. The other is slower and leaves wiggle room.
The Flaws In Forensic Science
Forensic scientists re-evaluate how to improve the state of the field.
How To Have A Dinner Party In Space
Astronaut Leland Melvin recounts daily life aboard the International Space Station, including a communal dinner, celebrating a birthday, and the challenges of trying to sleep in microgravity.
7:39
Why Are Whales Whale-Sized?
Plus, a genetic map of the Zika virus and a new planetary object round out this week’s science news.
4:20
Can You Fidget Away Your Anxiety?
Fidget spinners and other widgets can help you focus, but they can also distract.
17:15
On Being A Scientist (And Patent Holder) At Any Age
Amber Yang, 18, won Intel’s Young Scientist Award with her novel space debris tracker.
9:03
Digesting The White House’s ‘Devastating’ Cuts To Science Funding
Ultimately, Congress appropriates the research funds. Will it retain billions of dollars in proposed cuts?
7:06
Magnus Hirschfeld, The ‘Einstein Of Sex’
The pioneering sex researcher’s goal was to prove homosexuality was rooted in biology. But his ideas fell into the wrong hands.
16:35
Chasing Space: Astronaut Leland Melvin’s Journey From Sports To Space
Leland Melvin on the perseverance and different communities that helped launch his career into space.
17:03
The Many Uses Of ‘Useless’ Research
Reviving a case for foundational science that dates back to Einstein.
11:34
Jupiter Surprises In Its Closeup
Scientists report the first scientific results from the Juno mission, now in orbit around Jupiter.
Will Driverless Cars Work Outside The United States?
Driverless car technology is built with the West in mind—but will the same rules work in other countries?
Use Your Senses To Make Sense Of Your Soil
You can see, feel, and even smell the difference between good and lousy soil.
Can Opioid Addiction Be Cured?
Tom Price’s claims about opioid addiction are disputed by experts.
7:50
From Alberta’s Oil Sands, A Dinosaur ‘Mummy’ With Skin Intact
Plus, how is one of the most isolated islands on Earth also the most littered?
4:25
Your Airline Will See You Now
Is Delta’s new facial recognition technology a customer convenience or an invasion of privacy?
17:22
There’s Less Science In Forensic Science Than You Think
A look at efforts to improve forensics after the death of a key federal commission.
8:58
Weighing A Stockpile Of Computer Threats
When should the government alert the computer industry about software flaws that could become cyberweapons?
7:17
Prospecting For Martian Gold In Antarctica
On the latest episode of “Undiscovered,” we hear the story of meteorite hunter Nina Lanza, and what life’s really like in Antarctica.
17:15
Getting Inside The Head Of A Muskox
One researcher’s game of pretend sheds light on species survival in a warming climate.