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.
Fighting A.I. With A.I.
As we increasingly rely on artificial intelligence, we must prepare for new types of hacks.
To Survive on Mars, BYO Bacteria
Microbes could form the basis of a human life support system on the Red Planet.
Life Beyond Earth
We delve into the science of listening, and looking, for possibilities of life in the universe.
7:48
Magnetic Pottery, and the Effects of Same-Sex Marriage Laws on Teens
In states where same sex-marriage was legalized, the suicide attempts among gay, lesbian, and bisexual teens dropped by 14 percent.
3:47
A Cautious Go-Ahead for Human Gene Editing
A report from a National Academies panel endorses the possible use of gene-editing techniques in human embryos—under very limited conditions.
21:59
How Can We Discover Better Antibiotics?
A look at the scientific obstacles and breakthroughs involved in finding and developing new antibiotics.
7:02
Can This Treatment Combat Hearing Loss?
Boston-based researchers have regrown a high volume of sensory hair cells in the lab using a new technique.
16:51
Seven New Chances for Life in Space, Just 40 Light-Years Away
Scientists have discovered seven Earth-size planets orbiting a nearby star that could hold the conditions for life.
31:55
Computer Hacks of the Future, and How to Prevent Them
As self-driving cars and other artificial intelligence advance, how safe will we be from A.I. hacks and attacks?
How Well Does Facebook Know Us?
The SciFri staff discusses the assumptions Facebook makes about us.
Science Friday Live in Orlando
On Tuesday, March 28, Science Friday heads to Orlando to show how the future is NOW!
The Plastic Battery That Doesn’t Explode
The inventor thinks the new technology could revolutionize the future of batteries.
7:37
CRISPR Patent Battles, a Super-Sized Space Launch, and the Rise of Commuter Drones
The U.S. Patent Office ruled in favor of the Broad Institute in an early case over rights to the gene-editing technique known as CRISPR.
4:33
A Mood Ring for Your Wrist
A new wearable aims to help people who feel socially awkward interpret others’ emotions.
16:29
Booting Up the Search for Better Batteries
New battery technology could make our devices safer, and help squeeze more power out of the grid.
11:57
How Will Net Neutrality and Telecomm Fare Under the New Administration?
The newly appointed FCC Chairman Ajit Pai has said that “net neutrality is a solution in search of a problem.”
17:19
The Price of ‘Free’ Internet Services? Your Privacy
As we trade more and more of our personal data to big companies in exchange for their services, internet users must decide for themselves where to draw the line on internet privacy.
16:10
How Humans Might Really Colonize The Solar System
The minds behind the “The Expanse” chat about space flight, space politics, and how they keep the show feeling real.
17:22
Which New Battery Technology Will Take Electric Vehicles To The Finish Line?
Lithium ion may be good enough for now, but experts say that new battery tech will bring EVs to the next level.