Richard Binzel

Richard Binzel, a renowned planetary sciences professor at MIT and inventor of the Torino scale, discusses the recent emergence of asteroid 2024 YR4, which threatens a close approach to Earth in 2032. He outlines global defense measures that have been activated, emphasizing the urgency of preparedness. The conversation dives into how asteroids are monitored, the importance of trajectory predictions, and NASA's innovative techniques for potential asteroid deflection. Binzel connects this to historical events, shedding light on our strategies to mitigate asteroid threats.

Eleanor Scerri, an archaeologist at the Max Planck Institute, reveals findings of hunter-gatherers thriving in Malta 8,500 years ago, challenging views on prehistoric maritime skills. Marianne Brasil, a physiologist, discusses the evolutionary 'obstetric dilemma' linked to human pelvic anatomy and childbirth complications. Richard Binzel updates on asteroid Apophis, emphasizing international collaboration for planetary defense. Finally, Sergui Pascu shares groundbreaking research on brain assembloids that mimic pain signaling, paving the way for new pain therapies.