On Today's Podcast
How To Tap Into The Hidden Histories Of Rocks
Geologist Anjana Khatwa explains how embracing wonder and awe adds to our scientific understanding of the rocks that form our planet.
Listen NowNovember 28, 2025
The Ig Nobel Prizes celebrate unusual scientific research—this year including lizard pizza preferences and fingernail growth. Plus, in a conversation from August, exercise researchers discuss what physical activity does to mental health. And, in a story from February, a journalist explains the afterlife of our trash, and why most “recyclable” plastic actually isn’t.
16:53
Back-To-School Lessons From Science Friday’s Educator Collaborative
Seven innovative science teachers have turned Science Friday stories into lessons you can use in the classroom and at home.
Why Are Honeycomb Cells Hexagonal?
Honeybees make the cells of their hives in the shape of hexagons, but why?
33:33
Hurricane Harvey And The New Normal
As Harvey devastates Houston, Michael Mann says it becomes increasingly clear that we live in an ever-evolving state of a “new normal.” Where do we go from there?
How Cities Are Preparing For More Extreme Weather
Tropical Storm Harvey may have taken Houston by surprise, but places around the world are getting ready for more extreme weather due to climate change.
Science Friday Trivia: San Francisco
On October 30, we’re teaming up with the Bay Area Science Festival to bring the ultimate battle of the geeks to the West Coast.
How Animals Keep Their Cool
From horses to humans, here’s how animals have evolved to beat the heat.
The Third Stage Of Life? A.I.
In his new book, physicist Max Tegmark breaks down the technological future of life, and anticipates when artificial intelligence may arrive.
7:43
Don’t Throw Away Those Eclipse Glasses!
Here’s what to do with your leftover solar glasses. Plus, substance abuse in baby boomers.
17:30
The Spaceships At The End Of The Solar System Turn 40
From solar explorers to record bearers, scientists and the public reflect on the many lives of Voyagers 1 and 2.
14:09
What Microbes Are Hiding In Your Home?
From slime in your shower head to fungi in your drywall, there’s no escaping the microbiome of the great indoors.
2:34
‘That Is Unreal!’ Experiencing The Total Solar Eclipse
On August 21st, millions of Americans stopped what they were doing and looked up. Science Friday was there.
10:46
Oh, Really? How Our Brain Turns Pitch Into Meaning
Researchers mapped the neurons that pick up on pitch in spoken language.
23:54
What Would An A.I.-Influenced Society Look Like In 10,000 Years?
Physicist Max Tegmark contemplates how artificial intelligence could reshape work, justice, and society in the future.
11:56
Running The Numbers On A Transition To Renewable Energy
A new study maps out the path for 139 countries to switch entirely to renewable energy sources by 2050.
Water, Water, Everywhere, So Make Some Beer To Drink
Amsterdam has two problems: It can’t seem to stop coming up with new types of beers, and it floods easily. Why not kill two birds with one stone?
Could Climate Change Really Help Farmers?
Rep. Lamar Smith says activists are ignoring the “positive impacts” of climate change for agriculture—but those positive impacts are overstated.
A Theoretical Physicist Dives Into Black Holes
Priyamvada Natarajan tells why she fell for black holes, how they shape galaxies, and her favorite fictional depictions of them.
Evolution Happens More Quickly Than You Think
Biologist Jonathan Losos tells the story of two biologists who witnessed evolution unfold before their eyes.
8:15
Supercomputers In Space, Alternative Cancer Therapies, And A Frozen Fruitcake
NASA is preparing a year-long test to examine how off-the-shelf supercomputers might withstand radiation in space.