Science Friday

It’s World Space Week, and we’re fueling up the rocket for a tour of some missions and projects that could provide insights into major space mysteries. Astrophysicist Hakeem Oluseyi joins Host Flora Lichtman to celebrate the wonders of space science, from the recently launched IMAP, which will study the solar environment, to the new Vera Rubin Observatory, and big physics projects like LIGO. Plus, the latest in climate tech: MIT Technology Review has published its annual list of climate tech companies that show great promise in work ranging from producing sodium ion batteries to recycling rare earth magnets. Host Ira Flatow talks with climate reporter Casey Crownhart about trends in climate tech and what companies she’s excited about.Guests: Dr. Hakeem Oluseyi is an astrophysicist and author of the upcoming book, Why Do We Exist? The Nine Realms of the Universe That Make You Possible, and host of the video podcast “Particles of Thought.”Casey Crownhart is a senior climate reporter for MIT Technology Review based in New York City.Transcripts for each episode are available within 1-3 days at sciencefriday.com. Subscribe to this podcast. Plus, to stay updated on all things science, sign up for Science Friday's newsletters.

Amy Bowers Cordalis, an attorney and member of the Yurok Nation, joins Barry McCovey Jr., director of the Yurok Tribes Fisheries Department. They discuss the 2002 salmon die-off that inspired action to remove the Klamath River dams. This monumental effort restored a vital salmon habitat and revitalized the river's ecosystem. Listeners will hear about the dam's impact on native salmon populations and the economic advantages of removal. The renewed vibrancy of the river and ongoing monitoring highlight nature's incredible capacity to heal.

Sam Kean, a science writer and author of Dinner with King Tut, dives into the fascinating world of experimental archaeology. He shares his wild adventures in recreating ancient life—from brain tanning and DIY mummification to crafting 75,000-year-old bedding. Sam humorously recounts his urine-tanning mishap and the cleverness behind ancient practices like Roman concrete and authentic Egyptian sourdough baking. Through hands-on experiences, he unveils the creativity and resilience of our ancestors, reshaping traditional views of archaeology.

Dr. Iliana Medina Guzman, a Senior Lecturer at the University of Melbourne, shares insights from her fascinating study on moth survival strategies, involving 15,000 origami moths in diverse environments. She explains how camouflage versus warning coloration's effectiveness varies based on predator competition and environmental factors. Later, mammologist Dr. Anderson Feijó and evolutionary biologist Dr. Rafaela Missagia discuss the evolutionary significance of rodent thumbnails, revealing how they enhance dexterity and food handling, challenging previous perceptions of their importance.

Dr. Tom Frieden, former CDC director and president of Resolve to Save Lives, dives into the current turmoil of the public health system in the U.S. He discusses the pressing need for local agencies to step up amid CDC challenges. Tom highlights innovative efforts addressing issues like PFAS, exposes the gap between federal rhetoric and rollbacks in health programs, and emphasizes the importance of rebuilding trust post-COVID. He also encourages community support for local health departments and underscores the crucial balance between scientific certainty and public action.

Dr. John Hawks, an esteemed anthropologist at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, delves into a controversial new analysis of an ancient skull from China that threatens to rewrite the human evolutionary timeline. He discusses how the skull's features suggest an earlier emergence of Homo sapiens and our relatives. Skepticism reigns in the field, prompting John to stress the importance of fossils and DNA in shaping our understanding of human ancestry. The conversation unfolds around the implications of this finding for our perception of human diversity and adaptation.

In a touching tribute to Jane Goodall, the renowned primatologist and conservationist, her early dreams of studying wildlife ignite nostalgia. She recalls her groundbreaking discovery of chimpanzees using tools, reshaping our understanding of human uniqueness. Jane also explores the complexities of chimpanzee behavior, from intergroup violence to community cultural differences. With a call for compassion in conservation, she reflects on the urgent threats to these primates and emphasizes the need for global change, leaving a legacy of humility and connection to nature.

Dr. Awais Aftab, a clinical associate professor at Case Western Reserve University, and Dr. Mark Horowitz, a clinical research fellow in the UK, dive deep into the complexities of SSRI withdrawal. They discuss the lack of strong long-term data and how withdrawal symptoms can be mistaken for relapse. Mark shares his personal struggles with long-term withdrawal, highlighting gaps in clinician training. They explore effective tapering strategies and the importance of prioritizing patient care over exact prevalence rates.

In this engaging discussion, Asha de Vos, a pioneering marine biologist and the founder of Oceanswell, shares her groundbreaking discovery of Sri Lanka's non-migratory blue whale population. She reflects on the challenges of establishing marine research in a context where resources were scarce and faced cultural skepticism as a female scientist. Asha also sheds light on the phenomenon of parachute science, emphasizing its impacts. With a focus on her journey, Asha inspires with her vision for advancing marine science in Sri Lanka.

Emma Gometz, a digital producer and journalist, dives into the riveting world of the Federal Duck Stamp Art Contest. She explains how the competition not only captivates artists but also plays a pivotal role in funding wetlands conservation. Tension fills the auditorium during the judging process, as artists vie for recognition rather than cash prizes. Emma also shares insights on the dominance of the Hotman brothers in capturing the spirit of wildlife art, and how social media is reshaping the contest landscape, bringing attention to both art and conservation.