Nell Greenfieldboyce

Nell Greenfieldboyce, NPR's science correspondent, dives into groundbreaking advancements at the Vera C. Rubin Observatory in Chile. This powerful telescope is set to scan the southern sky over the next decade, potentially unveiling the mysterious 'Planet 9.' Greenfieldboyce discusses the challenges scientists face while searching for this elusive planet and the innovative technologies being employed. With its ambitious mission to reveal hidden celestial movements, the observatory could revolutionize our understanding of astronomy and dark matter.

Nell Greenfieldboyce, NPR science correspondent, dives into the intense debate surrounding potential signs of life on the exoplanet K2-18b. She discusses sulfur-based gases detected by the James Webb Space Telescope and their link to microbial life. However, skepticism runs high as many astronomers question the reliability of the evidence. The conversation touches on the implications of these findings for future alien searches and the importance of strong verification in scientific claims. It's a thrilling exploration of hope and caution in the hunt for extraterrestrial life.

Nell Greenfieldboyce, NPR science correspondent, dives deep into the significance of the Scopes 'Monkey Trial' on its 100th anniversary. The discussion reveals how this landmark event exposed cultural rifts that persist in today’s society. Greenfieldboyce highlights its impact on evolution education in America, reflecting on challenges faced by educators since. She explores the orchestrated nature of the trial and its surprisingly quick verdict, while drawing parallels to modern controversies around teaching evolution in schools. A fascinating journey through history and its echoes in the present!

Nell Greenfieldboyce, an NPR science correspondent specializing in geology, dives into the fascinating world of zircon, the planet's oldest known mineral. She reveals that these resilient crystals date back 4.37 billion years, serving as geologic clocks that mark significant events in Earth's history. The discussion highlights how advancements in zircon research are unlocking secrets about early cosmic events, like the Moon's formation, as well as improvements in dating techniques using uranium decay. Zircon's durability makes it essential for understanding our planet's ancient past.

Nell Greenfieldboyce, an NPR science correspondent known for her captivating reports on scientific phenomena, dives into the world of ice worms. She reveals how these tiny, black, thread-like creatures survive in the extreme glacial environments of the Pacific Northwest. Surprisingly, they thrive at zero degrees Celsius but struggle with colder temperatures. Nell also discusses their ecological significance as indicators of climate change, challenging the notion that glaciers are lifeless. Get ready to discover the surprising life hidden in ice!