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.
18:00
As Wildfire Intensity Rises, So Does The Human Toll Of Blazes
Wildfire season in the West is now year-long, thanks to climate change. Listen to residents and rescuers as they grapple with the new normal.
17:01
What Will We Reap Without Topsoil?
Soil erosion continues at record pace around the world. Soil scientist Jo Handelman explains the good news: The solutions are simple and well-understood.
17:26
Activists And Vulnerable Nations At COP26 Seek More Than Promises
Action on climate change is slower than many activists would like. And why payment for “loss and damage” is crucial for vulnerable nations.
More Erosion Is Happening Globally. Here’s What It Means For Farms.
Jo Handelsman, Obama’s former science advisor, explains why more farms are experiencing erosion, and how it reduces crop yields.
How Puffins On The Gulf Of Maine Act As ‘Sentinels Of Climate Change’
Learn how conservationists live on an isolated island to study Maine’s puffin population, and how the birds are dealing with warming seas.
The Voices That Shaped 30 Years Of Science Friday
For three decades, Science Friday has connected scientists with the public. Listen to the voices that have shaped our show.
Donate To Science Friday For Our 30th Anniversary!
Science Friday is back in the studio! Celebrate our return to live broadcast today with a donation.
11:57
Behind The FDA’s Decision To Vaccinate Kids Under 12
No severe adverse effects were found in the study vaccinating younger kids against COVID-19 with Pfizer’s shot, according to the FDA.
8:06
What’s Next For Kansas After 20 Years Of Wind Power?
After two decades, wind farms in Kansas take stock of how the state has changed—and what challenges lie ahead.
29:24
Fact Check My Feed: More Kids Can Get COVID-19 Vaccines. Now What?
Pfizer’s vaccine is now approved for kids aged 5 to 11. Plus, which adults need which booster, and preparing for another pandemic holiday season.
5:18
The Science Friday Theme Song That Got Lost In The Mail
23 years ago, Ira dared Steve Allen, the first host of The Tonight Show, to write a Science Friday a theme song. Allen obliged—so why didn’t it make it on the show?
11:11
In First Real-World Experiment, Red Seaweed Cuts Methane In Cows By More Than Half
Researchers fed a working dairy’s cows red algae. It had a stunning impact.
26:05
SciFri Reflects On Three Decades Of Covering Science News
A lot has changed since the first broadcast in 1991. The show’s commitment to science hasn’t.
What Causes Some Aurora To Appear In Discrete Lines?
Why do some auroras appear in discrete lines, while others fill the sky with diffuse light? Explore how electrons surf on Alfvén waves.
How Do You Search For Life In The Universe? Use Clues From Microbes!
How do scientists figure out where life can exist in the universe (places like Venus)? Use the microbes on Earth to piece together clues about the limits of life.
Jargon: We Love To Hate It
Most people despise it. So why do we use it? And is all jargon bad?
12:16
Younger Kids Next In Line For COVID-19 Vaccines
How will making vaccines available for children as young as 5 change the course of the pandemic in the U.S.?
22:36
Could Ordinary Household Objects Be Used To Spy On You?
Researchers have been able to coax a wide range of ordinary objects into information-gathering devices, known as a side-channel attack.
11:14
A Maggot Revolution In Modern Medicine
Fly larvae have been used to cure wounds for thousands of years. Researchers say they’re still more useful than you might think.
25:03
The Science Behind Cryptid Sightings
The existence of sea serpents and Bigfoot might never be proved. But a cryptozoologist explains why understanding their appeal is still important.