BBC Inside Science

Upcoming lunar missions to the Moon in 2024, including NASA's Artemis II mission with the first manned lunar flyby since 1972 and China's Chang'e 6 mission to collect rock samples from the far side of the moon. Insight into the Artemis II mission and its culinary delights in space. China's use of a relay satellite for their lunar mission and the impact of the Wolf Amendment. Potential discoveries from exploring the moon's surface and below, such as water-containing glass bits and high-density materials. The Europa clipper mission's goal to search for habitable environments on Europa and other icy ocean worlds.

This Christmas edition of BBC Inside Science covers fascinating topics like a newly discovered tree frog species and promising drugs for Alzheimer's disease. It also delves into sonification of NASA's telescope images, an ancient wooden structure found in Zambia, and the discovery of thousands of new species in the ocean depths. Other interesting topics include video-calling parrots, the cognitive abilities of parrots, and the record high global ocean surface temperature.

Scientists studying the carbon cycle at the South Pole discuss the hibernation habits of copepods and their role in carbon storage. The podcast also covers an eruption in Iceland, challenges faced by a scientific research team in the Southern Ocean, and the exciting adventures of exploring the South Pole. It concludes with a discussion on the science of creating a festive playlist and choosing the right music after Christmas dinner.

COP 28 concluded with discussions on oceans, food security, and transitioning away from fossil fuels. Glada Lahn explains the potential shift from 'brown energy'. Casper Chater explores adapting crops to extreme weather events. Ko Barrett discusses oceans' role in mitigating climate change. Mervina Paueli shares experiences from Tuvalu, an island nation facing climate challenges.

Vagrant birds appearing in new locations and their impact on ecosystems. Boris Johnson's testimony and decision-making during the pandemic. The brain's inability to rewire itself after injury contradicts previous beliefs. Research on neurons and phantom limb pain after amputation. The psychological impact of approaching rehabilitation for brain injury patients.

Scientists explain the science of detecting tunnels and mines from above ground. The phenomenon of Northern Lights and how it can be seen in the UK. Assessment of countries' progress in climate commitments and highlights the UK's stance. Updates on the UK Covid-19 Inquiry including key government ministers giving evidence.

Former Chief Scientific Adviser Patrick Vallance and Chief Medical Officer Chris Whitty testify at the UK Covid-19 Inquiry. NASA releases a toolkit in Earth's orbit. There is hope to curb global warming. Ed Yong's book wins the Royal Society Trivedi Science Book Prize.

Scientists discuss potential huge volcanic activity in Iceland. Updates on the ongoing COVID-19 public inquiry. Author explores the race to defeat the deadly virus. Importance of public trust in science for vaccine development. Government's handling of the crisis and treatment of scientists.

Professor Saleemul Huq, director of the International Centre for Climate Change and Development, advocated for a loss and damages fund for vulnerable countries affected by climate change. The podcast also covers an unusual snail looking for a mate, glucose monitors' impact on the body, and Lev Parikian's book on the evolution of flight in animals.

Abandoned metal mines in the UK are polluting rivers. A book explores the history of basic inventions. How selective breeding can reduce emissions from cattle. The bizarre case of stolen bull semen. Surprising topics and a preview of the next episode.