BBC Inside Science

In this intriguing discussion, science journalist Caroline Steel joins experts Keith Bell and David Brayshaw to unravel the recent power outages in Spain and their implications for the UK's power supply. They dive into the vulnerabilities of electrical grids amid rising energy demands and climate challenges. The conversation even takes a fascinating turn with cyborg cockroaches aiding disaster rescue operations and a focus on the remarkable regeneration abilities of the critically endangered axolotl, hinting at potential breakthroughs for spinal cord repair.

Tim O'Brien, a Professor of Astrophysics at the University of Manchester, dives into the impacts of proposed budget cuts to NASA. He discusses how a potential 20% reduction could jeopardize critical projects, including the Mars Sample Return mission. The conversation also highlights groundbreaking discoveries of chemical signals from distant exoplanets, signalling progress in the search for alien life. Additionally, O'Brien points to the upcoming close approach of asteroid Apophis, showcasing international collaboration efforts to enhance planetary defense.

Join Catherine Heymans, Astronomer Royal for Scotland, Mark Maslin, climate expert, and Penny Sarchet, Managing Editor at New Scientist, as they tackle burning science questions. Discover why planets are round and how geese communicate in flight. They also delve into climate change tipping points, emphasizing the urgency of international action to prevent catastrophic shifts, and unravel the mystery of why garden snails ascend buildings. Plus, find out why your laundry gets trapped in duvet covers, blending humor with science!

Jack Ashby, Assistant Director at the University Museum of Zoology, sheds light on the critical role of natural history museums in biodiversity and climate research. Caroline Steel, a science journalist, discusses the rising trends and science behind wildfires as they become more frequent due to climate change. The conversation touches on firefighting technology and strategies, as well as unique museum specimens that help us understand the ecological impact of our changing world. It's a captivating exploration of science at the intersection of nature and crisis.

In this engaging discussion, Andrew Garrad, Chair of the Severn Estuary Commission and expert in tidal energy, explores the potential for tidal power in the UK, highlighting new plans for a tidal lagoon in the Severn Estuary. Caroline Steel, a science journalist, shares intriguing science news, including a revolutionary blood test for Alzheimer's and the controversy surrounding the innovative 'Torpedo Bat' in baseball. They also touch on geological phenomena such as supershear earthquakes. Together, they uncover the exciting intersection of science and technology.

Catherine Heymans, Scotland's Astronomer Royal and a leading astrophysics professor, discusses groundbreaking revelations about dark energy and its impact on the universe. She explores the recent findings from the Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument, challenging long-held assumptions and raising profound questions about existence. The conversation also touches on the intriguing analysis of the Winchcombe meteorite and its significance for understanding water's origins on Earth, blending cosmic mysteries with ancient discoveries.

Caroline Steel, a seasoned science journalist, and Libby Jackson, Head of Space at the Science Museum, join to discuss the pressing crisis facing wild bird populations in the UK. They explore alarming declines in woodland and farmland birds, the impact of climate change, and potential conservation strategies. The conversation shifts to space, highlighting the significance of NASA's recent astronaut return and the evolving role of private companies like SpaceX in reshaping space exploration. Plus, exciting insights into deep-sea oxygen mysteries and the science behind what makes a good day.

In this insightful discussion, science journalist Caroline Steel, known for delivering engaging science news, and Professor Damian Bailey, an expert in physiology, delve into crucial topics. They explore a concerning report showing boys outperforming girls in math and science, emphasizing the impact of confidence and teaching methods on gender performance. Additionally, they address the striking physiological effects of space travel on astronauts, including challenges faced during long missions and the mind-boggling effects of zero gravity.

Elsa Pancharoli, an NERC Independent Research Fellow at the National Museum of Scotland, discusses the groundbreaking discovery of a Jurassic fossil on the Isle of Skye. She shares the challenges her team faced while extracting a 166-million-year-old treasure. The conversation also dives into the geopolitical importance of critical minerals, essential for technology and sustainability, and how they impact the race for resources, especially in Ukraine. Exciting news from lunar exploration and dinosaur finds rounds out this fascinating discussion!

Gareth Mitchell, a technology expert and science communication lecturer, discusses the transformative impact of AI on scientific research. He highlights Google's new AI tool, Co-Scientist, showcasing its potential in biomedical studies while cautioning against over-reliance on technology. The conversation also touches on the growing threat of AI-generated misinformation in research, with insights from an image integrity analyst on detecting manipulated visuals. Finally, astronomer Catherine Heymans shares tips for observing a rare planetary alignment.