February 21, 2025
The CEO of one of America’s oldest scientific societies discusses the recent cuts to scientific institutions, and how scientists can respond. Plus, flu infections are the highest they’ve been in nearly 30 years, and flu deaths this winter have surpassed COVID deaths. And, a video of a gloriously creepy anglerfish inspired tears and poetry online.
12:10
What’s Behind The Strange Slowing Of The Earth’s Core?
The Earth’s inner core may be slowing its rate of rotation—possibly reversing direction relative to the rest of the planet.
17:10
Meet The Art Sleuths Using Science To Find Frauds
Determining what art is real requires scientific tools like carbon dating, and some expert sleuthing.
12:18
Meet The Blind Birder Reimagining Accessibility In The Outdoors
In the Colombian Andes, a professional birder has developed trails to help visually disabled people take part in hiking and birding.
7:45
Road Salt Is Washing Into The Mississippi River… And It’s Not Washing Out
Road salt washes into the Mississippi River, harming ecosystems, seeping into groundwater, and corroding water pipes.
9:12
How Many Glasses Of Water A Day Do You Actually Need?
Forget six to eight glasses. A recent study finds global water habits vary widely.
17:03
In ‘The Terraformers,’ Science Fiction Reveals Real-World Challenges
In “The Terraformers,” author Annalee Newitz takes readers on a multigenerational adventure to transform a planet.
17:07
Here’s What We Know About Long COVID, Three Years Later
A new study assesses the vast trove of research into the causes and best treatments for long COVID patients.
In This Science Fiction Book, A Planet Becomes A Character
In their forthcoming novel, ‘The Terraformers,’ author Annalee Newitz describes a far-away planet with recognizable problems.
12:18
Conozca al observador de aves ciego que reimagina la accesibilidad al aire libre
En los Andes colombianos, un observador de aves profesional ha creado senderos para ayudar a los discapacitados visuales a practicar el senderismo y la observación de aves.
11:49
Scientists Deflect A Lightning Strike… With A Laser?
Beaming a high-powered laser into the sky might be a more effective way to control lightning strikes.
8:06
Why Are Children’s Antibiotics So Hard To Find Right Now?
Common antibiotics like penicillin, needed for kids with sickle cell, are becoming scarce, even as the FDA says there isn’t a shortage.
9:14
Bats Use Death Metal ‘Growls’ To Make Social Calls
A recent study reveals that bats are able to extend their vocal range to seven octaves, which may prove useful for social communication.
12:03
Why Are Gas Stoves Under Fire?
Gas stoves have been a hot topic of debate. A climate reporter answers our burning questions about their use, our health, and the climate.
17:11
What Will The Next Generation Of COVID-19 Vaccines Look Like?
With new variants emerging, researchers are working to develop new bulwarks against the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
17:02
The Sweet Song Of The $7 Violin
The 3D-printed violins are affordable and still sound beautiful, making them great instruments for young learners.
16:38
Can Science Answer Life’s Biggest Questions?
Theoretical physicist and author Alan Lightman launches a new public television series about searching for meaning in the age of science.
Read ‘The Ministry for the Future’ With The SciFri Book Club
While we live on the precipice of global climate disaster, this work of speculative fiction creates a drama out of the near future.
‘The Ministry for the Future’ Imagines A Dark But Hopeful Future
In a novel described as optimistic and alarming, Kim Stanley Robinson writes for our endangered—but not ultimately doomed—world.
11:40
Early Migration To North America Likely Wasn’t A One-Way Road
New genomic research reveals ancient peoples didn’t just travel from Asia to North America; they likely journeyed back too.
32:38
Lab-Grown Meats Are Finally Inching Closer To Commercial
The FDA recently approved the first commercial meat made from animal cell cultures. Can it happen at a large scale?