Astronomers express concern about bright satellites obstructing observations, including BlueWalker 3. Carrot genetics and self-healing diamond discoveries are discussed. The diet of a 400-million-year-old trilobite revealed. The Nobel Prize winners for mRNA vaccine development and atosecond pulse research are mentioned.

Researchers are trialling the controversial strategy of assisted migration to save the endangered swamp tortoise. The aim is to test whether the animals can tolerate cooler climates and ensure their species' future. Attitudes towards assisted migration are changing, and similar projects are being conducted to protect animals at risk from climate change. The podcast discusses the concept of assisted migration and its potential benefits for endangered species, including cases of egg-laying reptiles, green sea turtles, mountain pygmy possums, and black-footed albatross chicks. Efforts to protect the swamp tortoise, its challenges, and uncertainties for juvenile tortoises are also explored.

Learn about the dangers of AI deepfakes and the efforts being made to combat them. Discover ultra-accurate measurement of Earth's day-length and the unique survival tactic of snow flies. Uncover evidence of ancient woodworking and its implications for early hominins. Explore the excitement and precautions surrounding the landing of the Osiris Rex mission capsule. Discuss the future of sample return missions and the importance of protecting archaeological sites.

Researchers have discovered new stem cells in the spine that may be involved in the selective spread of cancer to this site. The podcast also explores the preference of certain percussion instruments among palm cockatoos and the math behind waiting in crowded places. Additionally, the effectiveness of MDMA in treating PTSD is discussed, as well as the upgraded X-ray laser that will allow researchers to capture ultra-crisp 'molecular movies' of chemical reactions.

A sustainable, reversible adhesive inspired by mussels and oysters offers environmental benefits. Scientists explore safe alternatives to BPA in plastics and estimate the brightness of the historic Carrington Flare. Progress towards meeting UN sustainable development goals, focusing on malnutrition, is discussed. Controversy surrounds the origins of stone balls found at ancient sites. Researchers analyze spherical objects and speculate about their use, including ball sports.

900,000 years ago, human ancestors faced extinction with a population crash, impacting genetic diversity and driving the evolution of modern humans. Antarctica's research stations have left high levels of pollution, but the extent of the impact is unknown. Melting sea-ice around Antarctica is causing emperor penguins to abandon breeding colonies, resulting in the deaths of many chicks. AI is being trained to describe smells, with potential applications in perfumes and food products.

Physicists observe the elusive oxygen isotope 28 and question current theories of atomic nuclei. Venus flytraps use molecular heat sensors to protect themselves from wildfires. Researchers develop a ballpoint pen that can write LEDs. An AI beats human champions in drone racing, improving drone efficiency. ISRO's successful moon landing and the challenges of landing on the moon's poles are discussed.

The podcast discusses the prevalence of flawed or faked clinical trials in medicine and the potential dangers they pose. It explores specific examples of flawed trials in maternal health and the impact of fraudulent studies on clinical practice. The podcast also highlights the challenges of reproducibility and research integrity in medicine, emphasizing the need for improved oversight and checks to ensure trustworthiness in medical research.

Brain-computer interfaces are transforming communication for those with paralysis, with improved devices converting brain activity into speech. The podcast also covers research on marathon running, bird coloration, and the impact of heat on tropical forests. It discusses the need to protect tropical forests and mitigate climate change, as well as Russia's challenges in lunar exploration.

Researchers cast doubt on fruit flies' ability to sense magnetic fields, potentially impacting understanding of sensory biology. Other topics include the closure of the Arecibo Observatory, deforestation's effect on Bronze Age Europe's climate, and the importance of studying soil diversity for food production and climate change.