Penny Sarchet

Join Libby Jackson, Head of Space Exploration at the UK Space Agency, Mark Miodownik, a materials scientist from University College London, and Penny Sarchet, Managing Editor of New Scientist, as they reflect on a groundbreaking year in science. They dive into billionaires venturing into space, record-breaking temperatures, and the rise of innovative weight-loss drugs. Hilarious stories about AI learning sarcasm and orcas donning 'salmon hats' add a light touch to their serious discussions on climate change, Mars exploration, and scientific progress.

In this engaging discussion, guests David Edgerton and Penny Sarchet delve into the mysteries of the ocean floor and the historical ties between science and warfare. Edgerton, a professor at King's College London, reveals how World War II influenced scientific research. Sarchet, Managing Editor at New Scientist, highlights the week’s top science stories. The duo also reflects on the staggering fact that 99.999% of the deep sea remains unexplored, calling for more initiatives to unlock its secrets. They celebrate David Attenborough’s legacy as he turns 99, marking his impact on nature.

Tom Whipple, science editor of The Times, and Penny Sarchet, commissioning editor at New Scientist, unveil the intriguing scientific landscape of 2025. They delve into advancements like the European Spallation Source's materials research and SpaceX’s plans for space exploration. The conversation takes a quirky turn with the challenges of creating new elements and the baffling behaviors of orca communities. Expect a mix of serious insight and light-hearted fun, complete with humorous moments, including a guest in a banana costume!

A vaccine for the respiratory virus RSV may be ready this year. In fact, after decades of efforts, successful vaccines have arrived like buses, with three of them on the way. As a particularly devastating virus for young children and the elderly, the team explains just how impactful these new vaccines will be.You may have read headlines that Earth’s core is changing direction - but the team explains why it’s not all it’s cracked up to be. They also bring less-than-thrilling news for the existence of life in the universe, as we may have been overestimating how many planets are out there that have the right conditions for life.Following intense rainfall, floods and disaster declarations, California finally has a dry forecast. But, the team asks, has all this water helped ease the State’s worst-in-a-century drought? And will we see more of these dramatic swings in weather as climate change worsens?Science has shown what most people who take antidepressants already know - that they blunt both bad and good emotions. The team explores the implications of this new study.You may be noticing a few bonus episodes popping up in your feed lately. The team shares a teaser of the latest ones, including a discussion about ‘tipping points’ with climate scientist Tim Lenton, and a chat with fungal pathogen expert Mat Fisher about the new fungal horror TV show The Last of Us.On the pod are Rowan Hooper, Penny Sarchet, James Dinneen, Michael Le Page and Leah Crane. To read about these subjects and much more, you can subscribe to New Scientist magazine at newscientist.com.Events and discount codes:January sale: newscientist.com/jansale2023RSC new publishing platform rsc.li/books Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Catherine Heymans, Astronomer Royal for Scotland, Mark Maslin, climate expert, and Penny Sarchet, Managing Editor at New Scientist, as they tackle burning science questions. Discover why planets are round and how geese communicate in flight. They also delve into climate change tipping points, emphasizing the urgency of international action to prevent catastrophic shifts, and unravel the mystery of why garden snails ascend buildings. Plus, find out why your laundry gets trapped in duvet covers, blending humor with science!