New Scientist Podcasts

#245The multiverse may be bigger than we thought. The idea that we exist in just one of a massive collection of alternate universes has really captured the public imagination in the last decade. But now Hugh Everett’s 60-year-old “many worlds interpretation”, based on quantum mechanics, has been upgraded.The northern white rhino is on the brink of extinction but we may be able to save it. Scientists plan to use frozen genes from 12 now dead rhinos to rebuild the entire subspecies. But how do you turn skin cells into actual rhinos and will it work?A single-celled alga has done something thought to have happened just three times in the entire history of life on Earth. Braarudosphaera bigelowii has formed a unique bond with a bacterium living inside it and has developed a new cellular structure. This organelle may be why this alga became so successful and widespread.We’ve got a new way of looking for aliens without having to go planet hopping. The method involves scouting the universe for planets that are close together and look similar to each other – hinting that an advanced civilisation may have colonised them.We’ve had the orbits of the planets turned into music, we’ve heard the sonification of data and even heard what a black hole sounds like. This time, it’s the turn of mushrooms. Musician and artist Brian D’Souza has used a process called biosonification to produce musical tones from Shiitake and Reishi mushrooms. Learn more about Brian D’Souza here. And get details of his live performance on April 19th here.Plus, we mark the passing this week of Peter Higgs, who first proposed the existence of the Higgs boson and later won the Nobel Prize for his efforts.Hosts Timothy Revell and Rowan Hooper discuss with guests Karmela Padavic-Callaghan, Michael Le Page and Corryn Wetzel. To read more about these stories, visit newscientist.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gynecologist Jen Gunter discusses the taboo science of menstruation by exploring the biology and health aspects of periods. Topics include the evolution of menstruation in humans, debunking menstrual myths, breaking the silence surrounding periods, and advocating for menstrual equality and support in society.

Researchers turn lymph nodes into mini livers for transplants. Climate crisis hits Great Barrier Reef even on remote island. Russia suspected of GPS jamming attack. Snakes show signs of self-awareness like humans.

From explosive beetles to deep-sea free diving, this podcast episode explores various forms of escape. Learn about the defense mechanisms of beetles, escape velocity in space, and the legacy of mathematician Katherine Johnson. Dive into the world of free diving and underwater escapism, highlighting the extreme pressures and challenges faced by divers.

Scientists rejuvenate old mice's immune systems, new detailed black hole image raises questions, unexploded bombs becoming more dangerous, possible sighting of graviton particle. Plus: Sleep affects aging, therapy horses stressed without choice, and innovative paper airplane-testing robot.

Exploring strange creatures and technology on the alien planet Vesta in 'Scavengers Reign'. Discussing bio-inspired engineering and the symbiotic relationship between humans and nature. Delving into the intersection of science, fiction, and creativity. Uncovering real-life wonders where nature meets science fiction. Exploring the interconnectedness of nature and heartfelt farewell exchange.

The podcast discusses declining birth rates globally and their impact on society, advancements in AI humanoid robots like NVIDIA's new chip, unique hunting tactics of California orcas, and mathematician Michel Talagrand winning the Abel prize for his work in randomness and quantum computing.

From the incredible speed of the Peregrine Falcon to the speed of light and Einstein's understanding, this episode explores speed in the natural world and beyond. Learn about the fascinating adaptations of Peregrine Falcons, the historical attempts to measure the speed of light, and the mind-blowing capabilities of Fugaku, the fastest supercomputer in the world.

The podcast explores Gaza's humanitarian crisis, Mars impacting Earth's oceans, AI-generated music, and powerful phonon lasers for medical imaging. Also, discussions on Europa's potential for hosting life, sequoia tree thriving, and python efficiency in sustainable meat production.

Discover how the moon has shaped Earth, influenced evolution, and impacted human history. From solar eclipses to war-time tragedies, explore the enchanting and mysterious qualities of our celestial companion.