Science Friday

Dr. Robert Carpick, a mechanical engineer and tribology expert at the University of Pennsylvania, dives into the science of why ice is slippery. He discusses tribology, revealing its origins and how it relates to ice's unique properties. Carpick explores the debate surrounding the liquid layer on ice's surface and shares insights from new simulations about surface disordering. He also explains how wax can lower ski friction and introduces innovative nanogenerators that can detect and melt ice, making winter sports even more fascinating!

Dr. Emily Tamadonfar, a neurologist at USC specializing in movement disorders, and Dr. Michael Okun, executive director at the Norman Fixel Institute, delve into the complexities of Parkinson's disease. They explore how early signs like smell loss and sleep disorders could hint at the disease's onset. The discussion highlights genetic and environmental risk factors, such as pesticides and air pollution, while emphasizing the need for improved biomarkers. They conclude with practical lifestyle interventions and the importance of reducing harmful exposures.

Dorota Skowronska-Krawczyk, a molecular biologist, unpacks the remarkable aging properties of Greenland sharks, revealing their surprisingly functional eyes despite centuries of life. She shares insights on DNA repair and how boosting gene expression may hold the key to preserving human vision. Meanwhile, Macarena Garcia Marin, a project scientist for the James Webb Space Telescope, clarifies the precision of its mirror compared to a baseball, and discusses how technology used in JWST mirrors is now benefiting medical diagnostics.

Dr. Admir Masic, an MIT expert in ancient concrete, shares thrilling insights from a Pompeii site that can revolutionize modern construction. He reveals how Romans created self-healing concrete using volcanic ash and lime, offering a glimpse into sustainable building practices. Meanwhile, Dr. Benjamin Lee from the University of Pennsylvania discusses the ambitious concept of orbital data centers, emphasizing their potential to harness continuous solar power. He highlights the engineering challenges of cooling and data transfer in space while advocating for enhancing Earth-based data center efficiency first.

Sudip Parikh, CEO of the AAAS, discusses the current state of science funding in the U.S. and how it has been affected over the past year. He highlights the promising FY2026 budget signals while detailing the implications of NSF fellowship cuts for future scientists. Parikh emphasizes the importance of bipartisan support in Congress and reflects on the U.S.'s competitive position against countries like China. He advocates for the value of basic science and stresses the need for scientists to rebuild public trust through personal connections.

Dr. Jennifer Miskimins, a petroleum engineer and academic leader at the Colorado School of Mines, sheds light on Venezuela's complex oil reserves. She explains the significant differences in oil types, correcting misconceptions about their value. Miskimins discusses the challenges of refining heavy crude, its impact on gasoline prices, and the necessary infrastructure to extract it efficiently. Despite interest, she highlights risks deterring investment in Venezuela's oil industry, balancing curiosity with caution.

In this captivating discussion, journalist Daisy Hernández shares her powerful personal journey related to Chagas disease, a condition many have never heard of. Growing up with her aunt Dora, whose illness was initially mistaken for bad apples, Daisy reveals the haunting realities of living with a neglected tropical disease. She highlights how stigma and lack of resources obscure Chagas, particularly in the U.S., while emphasizing the urgent need for awareness and proper care for affected communities.

Join Raffaela Lesch, a biology expert researching raccoons and domestication, and Pamela Yeh, an ecology professor focused on urban evolution. They dive into how city-dwelling raccoons are evolving with shorter snouts, signaling potential domestication. They discuss the effects of the COVID-19 lockdown on songbirds, revealing beak shape changes. Explore the continuum of domestication and what it might take for raccoons to become household pets, while reflecting on human impacts on urban wildlife.

In this engaging discussion, multimedia journalist Adriana Cargill and former USDA Forest Service scientist Dr. Jack Cohen delve into wildfire prevention in LA. Cargill explores the origins of a community brigade that emerged post-Woolsey Fire, focusing on home hardening techniques to enhance safety. Cohen highlights that airborne embers often ignite homes, urging homeowners to clear gutters and debris. They stress the importance of shared responsibility in wildfire prevention, blending community action with institutional support for a safer future.

Join Lindy Elkins-Tanton, a prominent planetary scientist and director of UC Berkeley's Space Sciences Laboratory, as she navigates the exciting possibilities of human missions to Mars. She outlines the scientific objectives for Mars, emphasizing the search for life as a top priority. Lindy shares insights on why humans bring unique value alongside robots, the importance of teamwork in mission planning, and personal reflections on facing the uncertainties of space travel. Discover what it takes to make the Psyche mission a reality and why curiosity is vital for exploration.