StarTalk Radio

Aerospace engineer Ana Diaz Artiles, an assistant professor at Texas A&M and developer of the SmartSuit, shares fascinating insights into the future of spacesuit technology. Diving into the design intricacies, she discusses the physiological challenges astronauts face beyond Earth. The conversation highlights innovative features like self-healing membranes and soft exoskeletons for mobility. Artiles also addresses the potential applications of smart suit technology beyond space, benefiting athletes and individuals with disabilities. A blend of humor and science keeps the discussion vibrant!

Join Benjamin Franklin, the legendary Founding Father and inventor, alongside Ellen Cohn, expert on his life at Yale, for a lively discussion. They delve into Franklin's iconic kite experiment and the fascinating science of electricity, including his invention of the lightning rod. The conversation touches on Franklin's role in securing French support during the Revolutionary War and how curiosity fuels innovation. With a blend of humor and historical insights, they highlight Franklin's lasting impact on American society and the importance of scientific exploration.

In this enlightening discussion, Dr. Staci Gruber, a Harvard neuroscientist and director of the MIND Program, explores the scientific nuances of cannabis. She dives into the evolving stigma around marijuana, highlighting its medical benefits, particularly CBD's role in inflammation and brain health. The conversation touches on the connection between cannabinoids and athletic recovery, and the ethical complexities of cannabis research. With humor and insight, they tackle myths and misconceptions while emphasizing the need for deeper understanding of cannabis's impact on health.

Lori Garver, the former Deputy Administrator of NASA and author of 'Escaping Gravity,' dives into the thrilling intersection of public and private space exploration. She discusses the implications of mining asteroids and lunar resources, and the evolving role of billionaires in this new space race. Garver shares insights about the complex relationship between NASA and commercial ventures, the cultural impact of high-profile launches, and the legal challenges surrounding space law. Her expertise offers a fascinating perspective on the future of human spaceflight.

Join cosmologist Brian Keating, a distinguished professor at UC San Diego and host of "Into the Impossible," as he dives into the mysteries of the universe. Explore the intriguing questions about what existed before the Big Bang and the significance of cosmic inflation. Brian and the hosts discuss the fascinating cosmic microwave background and its implications. They also tackle the challenge of communicating complex science to the public while sharing personal insights and playful humor. Get ready for a cosmic journey filled with wonder and wit!

Jamaal Wilkes, nicknamed "Silk" for his elegant style, and Michael Cooper, a defensive powerhouse, join in a fascinating conversation about the legendary Skyhook shot perfected by Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. They delve into the artistry and physics behind this iconic move, sharing personal anecdotes and memories from their time with the Lakers. The discussion also touches on the evolution of basketball techniques and the importance of teamwork, leaving listeners with a deeper appreciation of the game's rich history and a hopeful glimpse at a potential revival of classic shots.

Join planetary scientist Kevin Hand from NASA, who specializes in extraterrestrial ocean worlds, and oceanographer Julie Huber from Woods Hole, as they dive into the mysteries of oceanic life beyond Earth. They discuss the fascinating parallels between deep-sea organisms and potential alien life, explore how life may have originated in Earth's oceans, and examine the prospects of NASA's Europa Clipper mission. With a mix of humor and science, they tackle the challenges of exploring these extreme environments, both on our planet and in outer space.

What happens when galaxies collide? Discover the explosive dynamics behind cosmic events and the role of asteroids in shaping our universe. Dive into the humorous legal implications of celestial collisions, like the Chelyabinsk incident, and how technology impacts liability. Explore the captivating relationship between sound and cosmic events, translating black hole data into audio experiences. Plus, unravel the mysteries of dark matter, star formation, and the intriguing connections between the Big Bang and the Big Rip!

How is CTE different from a concussion?  Neil deGrasse Tyson and co-hosts Chuck Nice and Gary O’Reilly discuss concussions and chronic traumatic encephalopathy, with former NFL lineman, Leonard Marshall, and neuroscientist, Heather Berlin, PhD.NOTE: StarTalk+ Patrons can watch or listen to this entire episode commercial-free.Thanks to our Patrons Walter Johnson, Ali AlWaheedy, Armen Gevorgyan, Jenny K Leasure, WIGwigWIG, Denny, MaKayla A Holloway, Anna Dupre-Whiting, Allain Brideau, and David for supporting us this week.Photo Credit: Garpenholm, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of StarTalk Radio ad-free and a whole week early.Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How do you identify human remains? Neil deGrasse Tyson and Chuck Nice explore DNA and the task to identify the remains of missing soldiers with biomedical scientist Tim McMahon and forensic anthropologist Franklin Damann. What is the DPAA?  NOTE: StarTalk+ Patrons can watch or listen to this entire episode commercial-free here: https://startalkmedia.com/show/forensics-dna-and-identifying-missing-soldiers/Thanks to our Patrons Jon Scherer, Thibault Deckers, Jimmy Jam, Evan Cooper, Barnato, Justin Ross, James Nichols, Lori, Emilie Talles, and Roy Slettbakk for supporting us this week.Photo Credit: Doctoroftcm, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of StarTalk Radio ad-free and a whole week early.Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.