Short Wave

Scott Detrow, an NPR journalist, joins to discuss a surprising astronomical discovery: a young galaxy cluster that's hotter than the Sun—challenging long-held theories about galaxy formation. They also delve into the remarkable olfactory abilities of elephants, who excel in maze tests by choosing paths with more food. Lastly, the conversation explores the intriguing migration patterns of painted lady butterflies, revealing how DNA changes affect their movement across the equator, highlighting its ecological significance.

Damien Ouellette, an associate professor of biology at Loyola Marymount University, shares insights on the innovative concept of microforests. He discusses the ecological benefits these small urban forests offer, including improved biodiversity and carbon capture. The conversation highlights the importance of selecting native plants for climate resilience and showcases novel monitoring methods, such as using drones and spider DNA. Damien also emphasizes community engagement and the rapid growth of these green spaces, making cities healthier and more vibrant.

Join Matt LaManna, a curatorial expert at the Carnegie Museum, Sarah Davis, a paleobiologist, and Sarah Crawford, director of museum experience, as they unveil the secrets of the T. rex holotype. Learn how holotypes establish species standards and discover the challenges of conserving real fossils. The team shares their fascinating experiences in the museum's basement collections, including handling a 67-million-year-old bone, and discuss the delicate balance of showcasing these treasures while ensuring their protection.

Join astrobiologist Michael Wong from Carnegie Science as he dives into the hot debate about the origins of water on Earth. Could it have always been here, or did it come from space? He discusses the role of asteroids and comets, explaining new evidence suggesting that carbonaceous asteroids delivered much of Earth's water. Wong also explores the possibility of water forming on Earth itself through chemical reactions and details exciting experiments proving this theory. Tune in for a fascinating look at our planet's watery beginnings!

Yasemin Saplakoglu, a science writer for Quanta Magazine, dives into the fascinating world of zero, exploring its history and significance. She reveals how zero evolved from a mere placeholder to a complex number that our brains uniquely process. The discussion touches on how neurons react differently to small versus large quantities and how zero occupies a special place in our mental number line. Saplakoglu also highlights groundbreaking research that shows our brains represent the concept of absence with precision, emphasizing the abstract nature of numbers.

Rob Stein and Katia Riddle, both NPR health and science correspondents, delve into the significant cuts to U.S. scientific funding in 2025. They discuss the impact of these disruptions on research institutions, including layoffs and loss of grants. The emotional toll on NIH staff is highlighted, revealing a demoralized workforce. Young scientists face uncertainty, leading some to consider leaving the U.S. for better research support. The conversation raises critical questions about the future trust in America's scientific institutions.

The discussion dives into how Gen Z and younger millennials grapple with climate anxiety, affecting their family planning decisions. Alessandra Ram shares insights from her experiences as a new parent in a changing world. Experts highlight the importance of collective climate action over individual guilt and explore the real drivers of climate change beyond population. Tools for discussing climate issues with kids are provided, emphasizing hope, resilience, and the potential for a positive future.

Rachel Carlson, a dedicated producer and reporter on scientific topics, dives into the controversial world of kratom and its active component, 7-OH. She explores kratom’s origins and its diverse retail forms, while shedding light on the recent FDA concerns regarding its classification and potential health risks. Carlson discusses how kratom affects mood, the addiction risks linked to 7-OH, and the safety issues surrounding possible contaminants. She weighs the ethical dilemmas of kratom use against the backdrop of public health and regulation.

Joining the conversation is Juana Summers, a national correspondent and host on All Things Considered. She discusses how scientists in the Arctic are using drones to capture whale breath samples for health studies. This innovative method helps track diseases like morbillivirus and herpes in whale populations. The findings offer insights into stressors on marine life and potential zoonotic risks to humans. Juana also highlights the importance of monitoring ocean health, emphasizing a unique intersection of technology and conservation.

Katie Wu, a staff writer for The Atlantic, shares her insights on the intriguing genetic condition known as Asian glow. She discusses personal experiences with this flush that affects many after drinking alcohol. Wu delves into the ALDH2 mutation responsible for this condition and its implications for health, including potential links to tuberculosis resistance. The conversation explores how this seemingly disadvantageous trait could have provided an evolutionary advantage, highlighting a fascinating intersection between genetics and survival.