The Skeptics' Guide to the Universe The Skeptics Guide #1071 - Jan 17 2026
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Jan 17, 2026 Uncover the mystery behind claims that the moon landings were faked, as a teacher stirs controversy in a classroom. Dive into the scrutiny of Donut Lab's solid-state battery claims and explore the implications of the Artemis 2 mission's updates. Get insights on environmental policy shifts regarding the EPA's valuation of lives. A study reveals that life on planets around red dwarf stars may face severe evolutionary challenges. Plus, a deep dive into the resumed search for MH370 and a fun segment on birding improving memory.
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Teacher Taught Moon Hoax To Fifth Graders
- Jay Novella describes his 10-year-old daughter coming home convinced the moon landing was fake after her teacher promoted hoax talking points to a fifth-grade class.
- He and his wife escalated through email and planned meetings with the principal while preparing to correct students and monitor future instruction.
Too-Good-To-Be-True Battery Claims
- Stephen Novella frames Donut Lab's CES solid-state battery claims as individually plausible but collectively extraordinary and therefore suspicious.
- He notes the claimed combo of 400 Wh/kg, 100,000 cycles, fast five-minute charging, wide temp range, low cost, and shapable form is a battery wish list that should trigger skepticism.
Require Independent Proof Before Believing Startups
- Treat CES product announcements, especially from tiny startups, as marketing aimed at securing investment rather than proof of production.
- Demand independent testing, patents, and peer-reviewed data before accepting extraordinary product claims.