February 28, 2025
A federal DEI ban is already prompting changes across science agencies. How will it affect medical research? A journalist traveled to five continents to learn about the afterlife of our trash, and why most “recyclable” plastic actually isn’t. And, the ocean liner SS United States will become an artificial reef in Florida. How do artificial reefs work?
6:56
What Happened The Last Time Earth Got Hot Quickly?
Plus, 13,000-year-old footprints, the James Webb telescope is delayed, and a rogue satellite makes a timely landing.
4:59
Climate Science Goes To Court In California Oil Case
A judge requested a climate science tutorial in a federal lawsuit where two California cities are suing the oil company Chevron.
7:56
Is There A Cell Phone Link To Cancer? A Definite Maybe
A government study found a possible link to a rare type of cancer in rats. A peer review panel met this week and endorsed the findings.
Death And Thievery In The Colony
Cleptoparasite female bee, in the nest, with the manacles.
12:16
A New Organ That Could Explain The Mysteries Of The Human Body
Scientists have discovered “the interstitium,” a previously unidentified network of fluid-filled tissue.
17:20
Can We Predict Urban Gun Homicides?
Thousands of people of color die every year from gun homicides in cities. Can social science predict and prevent their deaths?
16:43
Little Bats, Impressive Resumes
Fancy flying, fast thinking, and sophisticated sonar: Why bats seem to have it all.
25:55
Beyond The Hive: The Wonderful World Of Native Bees
There are 4,000 types of native bees in North America, including species that secrete silk and others that build tiny towers.
Bats Take Flight
Thanks to high-speed video, we now know that bats fly very differently compared to birds.
Get Your Future Issue Of ‘Your Martian Daily’
Tips from a NASA astronaut for what to eat, how to dress, and how to manage your modern life on Mars.
Celebrate Spring At The Orchid Social
On April 9 in New York City, join Ira Flatow for a Science Friday garden party.
7:24
A Rhino’s Last Chance, Carbon Emission Carnivores, And Water On Exoplanets
The last male northern white rhino is dead. But he may still be able to help his species survive.
4:29
In Alaskan Cities, Climate Risks Could Become Credit Risks
In the state’s coastal fishing communities, climate change is becoming a threat to the economy.
17:13
How Do You Prevent Russia From Hacking Into The U.S. Power Grid?
Russian cyber groups have proven they can hack their way into U.S. power stations. Is there any way to make the grid safe?
16:47
After You Die, Your “Necrobiome” Lives On
A team of bacteria, insects, and other organisms take over bodies after death. But what can they tell scientists about how someone lived and died?
11:47
A Dung Detective Hunts For Rare Microbes
Most zoo visitors go to see the animals. Michelle O’Malley visits for their poop.
7:10
Coughs On A Plane
Researchers map out how the behavior of airplane passengers affects the chances of in-flight disease transmission.
9:14
After Finding Thousands Of Exoplanets, Kepler Rides Into The Sunset
The Kepler and K2 missions have found over 2,500 planets around distant stars, but the end is coming.
17:28
Shaping The Future Of Gun Research
As federal resources for firearm injury research lag, states like California are trying to do it themselves.
