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.
16:45
Your Future COVID-19 Vaccine May Come Through Your Nose
An immunobiologist answers listeners’ ongoing pandemic questions.
Introducing Universe of Art
On Science Friday’s new podcast, join us for conversations with artists who use science to bring their creations to the next level.
12:08
A Supermassive Black Hole The Mass Of 30 Billion Suns
How researchers detected the space giant using gravitational lensing, plus the approval of over-the-counter Narcan, EV charging, and a mammoth meatball you can eat.
11:11
What’s Driving A Rise In Mumps Cases In The United States?
Researchers now think that a third of people lose their vaccine-derived immunity to mumps by age 18.
5:52
Foundational Food Sources In The Gulf Of Maine Are Failing
Decades of research suggest that warming temperatures are collapsing the gulf’s productivity.
12:08
Sewage Is A Biological Necessity, And A Methane Minefield
Wastewater treatment facilities may release a surprising amount greenhouse gas.
9:41
Meet The Activist Reimagining Climate Education
Young people like Sage Lenier are very worried about climate change. So she took ownership over her education.
7:52
The First Fully Mapped Animal Brain Is The Larva Of A Fruit Fly
A 12-year effort to map the entire brain of a fruit fly larva is finally complete—a meaningful step in understanding things like addiction and consciousness.
16:57
National Audubon Society Sticks With Its Name, Despite Namesake’s Racism
Even as the national organization decides to stick with its original moniker, local branches are opting for change.
17:01
Is Spring Falling Out Of Sync?
The delicate timing between plants, wildlife, and seasons can be thrown off balance by warming temperatures.
How Young Learners Engaged With Sun Science At Home
A virtual camp with live Q&A and hands-on activities led to nearly 2,700 children learning about the physics of the solar system.
12:01
The Latest IPCC Report Is Full Of Warnings—And Hope
The report details where we stand on mitigating climate change and where to go from here.
6:14
An Underwater Volcano Off The Oregon Coast Sheds Light On Eruptions
The Axial Seamount is a natural laboratory, helping scientists improve long-term eruption forecasts.
17:14
Listen To Ethereal Sounds Derived From Space
NASA’s Sonification Project aims to turn astrophysics data into sound, enabling visually impaired people to engage with outer space.
12:05
Can Medicine Move To Animal-Free Testing?
Scientists are developing new technologies that would reduce the need to test new drugs on animals.
11:21
Capturing Carbon With Tasty Fungus
Farming fungi in forests could be a great source of low-carbon protein—and help sequester more carbon.
6:01
Whiskey Distillery On The Rocks After Fungus Spreads
Whiskey fungus isn’t as fun as it sounds. Just ask Lincoln County, Tennessee.
17:02
NASA’s New Science Head Sees A Bright Future
Dr. Nicola Fox, previously the director of NASA’s heliophysics division, will shape the agency’s priorities.
11:18
March Mammal Madness Wants To Hear You Roar
Can a honey badger beat a short-faced bear? Now’s your chance to compete with the wildest bracket.
12:19
At Long Last, More Regulations For Forever Chemicals
An EPA proposal would require water utilities to limit the amount of PFAS chemicals in drinking water.