

The Science Show
ABC listen
The Science Show gives Australians unique insights into the latest scientific research and debate, from the physics of cricket to prime ministerial biorhythms.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jun 8, 2024 • 54min
Paul Ehrlich - memoir traces science, activism and concerns for the planet
Paul Ehrlich has released a memoir. It covers his decades of science and activism. There have been some improvements. But mostly his concerns are even stronger.

Jun 1, 2024 • 54min
Age of Monotremes including three new genera
I00 million years ago, there were more species of monotreme, the egg-laying mammals such as today’s platypus and echidna at Lightning Ridge in northern NSW than anywhere else on earth, past or present.

May 25, 2024 • 54min
Are our tall forests really being saved?
David Lindenmayer reveals the ugly truth and what’s really happening in our magnificent tall forests.

May 18, 2024 • 54min
Big savings possible for the world’s ships
Ships which hitch a ride on small ocean currents could make big savings on fuel and reduce emissions.

May 11, 2024 • 54min
Charcoal reveals secrets of first humans in Australia
There are no bone fragments or similar clues. But the structure of cells of ancient plants captured in charcoal is revealing the diet and lifestyle of the first Australians.

May 4, 2024 • 54min
Getting serious about energy storage. But is it too late as wildfires rage?
Large scale energy storage will allow users to rely on renewable energy alone. The US Department of Energy is funding research to make it a happen.

Apr 27, 2024 • 54min
Scientists protest in Adelaide
Scientists fear research will be hit in proposed changes at the South Australian Museum

Apr 20, 2024 • 54min
Two inspirational books and new powers for Parkes dish
Two inspirational books for younger readers show an intruiging world and the thrill of chasing a dream.

Apr 13, 2024 • 54min
The science of friendship
Friendship led ancient humans to cooperate and gain an edge over predators. Compassion is seen among 25 primates and other animals. Today we explore these qualities and meet scientists investigating the role of friendship in our evolution and our lives in the modern world.

Apr 5, 2024 • 54min
The amazing world of alpine plants
Today we meet the people at the forefront of studying alpine plants - including how trees and plants survive in deep snow and ferocious winds. We visit the mushroom lab to discovery why fungi are essential to life on earth and find out what seed collection in the Colorado mountains is teaching us how to adapt in a changing climate. And while we're talking plants - Professor Peter Bernhardt of Missouri describes the thrill when the seventh millionth species was revealed and listed at his own formidable herbarium. All that, plus meeting the winner of the 2023 Jak Kelly Award for his fascinating research on how stars are tearing apart planets - could this have been the history of our own planet Earth?


