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Science Friday

Latest episodes

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Sep 3, 2024 • 18min

Webb Telescope Data Point To Six ‘Rogue Worlds’

Discover the wonders of rogue worlds—planet-like objects drifting through space without a star. Recent findings from the James Webb Space Telescope identified six such worlds in our Milky Way. Learn how these discoveries challenge existing views on planet formation and reveal the potential for billions more rogue entities. Delve into the colorful images captured by the telescope and explore the exciting relationships between these rogue worlds and traditional celestial classifications.
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Sep 2, 2024 • 18min

Could ‘Season Creep’ Affect Human Behavior?

Discover the concept of 'season creep' and its dramatic effects on the timing of seasons due to climate change. The discussion explores how this shift might contribute to mental health issues, such as seasonal affective disorder. You'll learn about the parallels between human and animal behavior in response to seasonal changes. The insights extend to cognitive functions and the importance of recognizing these patterns for public policy and mental health strategies. It's a fascinating look at how our changing environment impacts us psychologically.
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Aug 30, 2024 • 24min

Mosquito-Borne Diseases Are Spreading | ‘Slingshot’ And A Space Mission Gone Wrong

Rising temperatures are intensifying the spread of rare mosquito-borne diseases, including eastern equine encephalitis, prompting urgent public health efforts. Discussions highlight the connection between climate change and surging diseases like dengue and Oropouche fever. Meanwhile, a new sci-fi film raises important questions about astronaut mental health during long missions and the psychological challenges of isolation in space. Experts address how these themes impact future space exploration and the necessity of mental health support for astronauts.
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Aug 29, 2024 • 18min

The History Of Teeth, From Ancient Fish To Humans

Teeth are ancient relics, existing 250 million years before dinosaurs. From narwhal tusks to snake fangs, their diversity is fascinating. Explore how teeth evolved beyond just eating, playing roles in social interactions and survival strategies. Discover the connection between human dental evolution and dietary changes over time. Finally, delve into exciting innovations in dentistry, like regenerative fillings and alligators' tooth regrowth, pointing to a bright future for dental care.
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Aug 28, 2024 • 19min

Errors On Death Certificates May Be Skewing Mortality Data

The discussion highlights alarming inaccuracies in death certificates and their impact on the U.S. maternal mortality rate, suggesting it may be significantly inflated. Experts dive into the complex processes that different officials follow for recording deaths and how these practices vary across the country. The show raises important questions about the implications of this misreporting, especially regarding public health policies and statistics, including challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic and with heat-related deaths.
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Aug 27, 2024 • 19min

Astronaut Cady Coleman On ‘Sharing Space’

Retired astronaut Cady Coleman, who spent 159 days on the International Space Station, discusses the transformative 'overview effect' experienced by astronauts. She highlights the profound sense of connection to Earth gained from space and stresses the importance of diverse representation in space exploration. Coleman also shares innovative solutions in astronaut training, including adapting equipment for women. Additionally, she addresses the challenges of boredom in space and offers guidance for aspiring explorers, emphasizing curiosity and mentorship.
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Aug 26, 2024 • 21min

Protecting Sequoias From Wildfire Gets Tricky | Ancient Cave Art And Human Creativity

In Sequoia National Park, a heated debate brews over how to protect its ancient trees from fires exacerbated by climate change. Should we intervene by planting new sequoias, or respect the concept of wilderness? Meanwhile, archaeologists have uncovered some of the oldest cave art in Indonesia, challenging previous notions about human creativity and our connection to Neanderthals. Insights arise about how modern technology can help us engage with these ancient masterpieces and what they reveal about our ancestors.
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7 snips
Aug 23, 2024 • 23min

Plastic In Human Brains | Local Anesthetics Recommended For IUD Insertion

A shocking study reveals that human brains contain high levels of microplastics, even more than other organs. This raises urgent health concerns and highlights the ongoing issue of plastic pollution. Meanwhile, the CDC updates guidelines for managing pain during IUD insertions, recommending local anesthetics to improve patient comfort. Additionally, fascinating discussions explore alien radio signals, how spiders use fireflies for hunting, and the surprising mental health benefits of video gaming.
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Aug 22, 2024 • 18min

Don’t Just Walk In The Woods—Touch, Smell, and Taste Them, Too

Dive into the sensory wonders of the forest! Co-authors of a new book discuss enhancing outdoor experiences using all five senses. Discover the intricate ecosystems of woodlands and the fascinating role of sound and subtle signs of nature. There’s also a focus on engaging children with interactive activities that spark discovery and creativity in the outdoors. Reflect on your environmental impact and find joy in nature, even when the weather poses challenges. It’s a journey that encourages thoughtful exploration and appreciation of the natural world.
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Aug 21, 2024 • 17min

Are Space Elevators Really A Possibility?

What if we could send people to space without rockets? The idea of space elevators has captivated our imagination for years. Discover the engineering challenges of building a long cable reaching 22,000 miles into orbit. Learn about groundbreaking materials like carbon nanotubes that might make this dream feasible. Innovations in power mechanisms, including magnetic levitation, take center stage. Plus, explore the thrilling prospect of turning these elevators into space tourism hot spots. The future of space travel is closer than you think!

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