On Today's Podcast
What was science like in America 250 years ago?
Sure, the American colonies had Benjamin Franklin and his kite. But many other natural philosophers were thinking big thoughts about the world.
Listen NowJuly 3, 2026
What did science look like in America 250 years ago? Sure, there was Benjamin Franklin and his kite. But many other natural philosophers were asking big questions. Plus, researchers have engineered an artificial cell, hoping to build a customizable chassis for chemical production. And, Lake Xochimilco in Mexico City is the only place where axolotls live in the wild, and they face growing threats.
A 19th-Century Expedition To The Rim Of A Volcano
In a new graphic novel, scientist and polymath Alexander von Humboldt leads an intrepid band of scientists to catalog traces of life in a barren land.
To See Gulls Anew
Gulls are much more than the scavengers. They lead intricate lives at inland saline lakes when it’s time to breed.
11:32
The Climate Effects Of A Heated Campaign Season
The Democratic presidential primary field is vast—where do the candidates stand on climate issues?
11:42
How Much Worse Can The Measles Outbreak Get?
One of the most contagious viral diseases is spreading quickly across pockets of unvaccinated people in the U.S.
28:24
Poetry And Science, Under The Same Roof
A wordsmith and an astrophysicist on why scientists have long been drawn to creative takes on science—and why creativity is central to scientific thought.
33:39
Cities Are Turning Flood Water Into Freshwater
Climate change is predicted to have a major effect on water systems, and several cities around the world are adapting to be more resilient.
Science Friday Is Measuring ‘Degrees Of Change’—And We Need Your Help
Climate change is happening. Our new series ‘Degrees Of Change’ explores how we’re adapting to it.
Sleeping Cutie: The Hibernation Habits Of Dwarf Lemurs
Dwarf lemurs and humans share a significant gene that could influence the future of heart surgery and space travel.
7:32
It’s Alive! Sort Of.
Researchers have managed to keep cells functioning in pig brains hours after death—but the brains show no evidence of neural activity.
4:17
Do Plants And Birds Deserve Online Privacy?
Citizen science apps let people get out and explore nature. But they can also draw unwanted attention to threatened species.
11:28
What Makes A Species Human?
Researchers have discovered a new species of ancient human—but its placement on the human family tree is still up for debate.
17:15
How Is Your Data Used When You Turn In Your Census?
Census data is used to evaluate everything from redistricting to family policy leave policies.
9:56
The Little Plankton Recorder That Could
For half a century, a humble metal box has scoured the seas for plankton. Nowadays, it’s more likely to find plastic.
6:19
Painting The Brain As A Sacred Object
Artist and neurologist Greg Dunn creates neuroscience-inspired art that mimics the firing of the human brain.
33:37
The Future Of 5G
The next generation of wireless is on its way. Experts explain the science behind the new tech, plus why some are cautioning a slower rollout.
Etched From The Mind
Neuroscientist and artist Greg Dunn illuminates the intricate processes of the brain.
Searching For Sakura
Collingwood Ingram became enamored of Japan’s cherry blossoms during his honeymoon. He would devote his career to saving them.
6:19
An Attempted Moon Landing Fails In Final Minutes
Beresheet, a moon lander from Israel, crash landed on the lunar surface.
5:19
A Coral Rescue Effort—In Arizona
A project aims to use the artificial sea of Biosphere 2 as a testing ground for bringing back coral reefs affected by climate change.