Short Wave

Theoretical particle physicist Chanda Prescod-Weinstein delves into the enigma of dark matter and the elusive axion, a hypothetical particle that could tidy up our understanding of the universe. She discusses the challenges of detecting axions and how they might explain the universe's missing mass. The conversation also explores wave-particle duality and the promising avenues of research, including the significance of data from the Gaia Space Telescope. Join her as she unwraps the cosmic secrets hidden within axions!

John Hamilton, NPR's murine romance expert, dives into the intriguing world of prairie voles, known for their lifelong partnerships. He discusses how scientists used these cuddly rodents to unravel the mysteries of oxytocin in love. However, recent studies reveal that this 'love hormone' might not be the sole architect of emotional bonds. Hamilton explores the broader biological landscape of love, revealing the unexpected complexity behind our instincts for connection and attachment, and how these insights could reshape our understanding of human relationships.

Pien Huang, an NPR science correspondent, shares insights on the battle against Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever on the San Carlos Apache Reservation. The community faced alarming infection rates, but thanks to strategic health initiatives, they've reported no deaths in five years. Pien discusses the disease's deadly nature, symptoms, and the vital role of the unique brown dog tick. The success story highlights the importance of collaboration between health officials and local tribes in combating this tick-borne illness.

Geoff Brumfiel, NPR's science correspondent, shares insights from his exclusive tour of a top-secret underground nuclear research facility. He discusses the shift from actual nuclear tests to advanced simulations powered by supercomputers. The conversation dives into the geopolitical implications of potential future nuclear testing as nations like Russia and China ramp up their capabilities. Brumfiel also highlights the historical context of U.S. nuclear policy and the environmental risks tied to this intense scrutiny of nuclear weapons.

Carl Zimmer, a New York Times science reporter and author, dives into the intriguing yet alarming world of mirror cell research. He explains how life on Earth favors right-handed molecules and the theoretical risks of creating mirror microbes. Scientists are urging caution due to the potential catastrophic effects on ecosystems and biodiversity. Zimmer addresses misconceptions, emphasizing the ethical responsibility in scientific advancements. Could the pursuit of mirror life disrupt nature as we know it? Tune in to explore this thought-provoking topic!

Discover the intriguing connection between crowd behavior and fluid dynamics, revealing how cheering crowds mimic the movements of water. Learn about the vital insights researchers hope to use for ensuring safety in large events. Delve into how time of day influences our moods and the fascinating fossil discovery of an ancient bird that could reshape our understanding of avian evolution. Uncover the lessons ancient fossils teach us about biodiversity and the significance of past events in shaping our current environment.

Devaki Bhaya, a molecular ecologist from Carnegie Science, dives into the fascinating world of microbial communities in extreme environments like Yellowstone. She discusses why studying microbes in groups reveals their cooperative behaviors and evolutionary strategies. The conversation highlights unique adaptations of these extremophiles, the impact of horizontal gene transfer, and the value of collaborative science in understanding these tiny powerhouses. Prepare to see the beauty in what seemed hellish!

Black holes are often seen as cosmic villains, but they have a surprising dual role. They not only consume matter but also spew out powerful jets, influencing the very structure of galaxies. The discussion highlights the impressive jets emitted by supermassive black holes, like M87’s massive black hole, showcasing their fascinating dynamics. Delving into the Blandford-Znajek mechanism, the conversation reveals how black holes can convert absorbed energy into powerful jets, shaping cosmic evolution and even impacting star formation.

In this engaging discussion, science reporter Dan Charles sheds light on why some experts argue for letting abandoned land reclaim its natural state. Ecologist Gergana Daskalova shares her personal journey back to her deserted Bulgarian village, exploring how urban migration impacts rural communities. They debate the balance between stewardship and allowing nature to flourish on its own. Listeners discover the complexities of biodiversity in these changing environments and the innovative strategies for managing abandoned land as agriculture shifts.

Amy Nordrum, the executive editor at MIT Technology Review, discusses the annual '10 Breakthrough Technologies' list. She highlights the challenges of distinguishing true innovations from fleeting trends. Topics include the game-changing Vera Rubin Telescope in Chile and its community collaborations. The conversation also covers revolutionary methane reduction technologies for cattle, as well as promising advancements in long-acting HIV medications and green steel production. Nordrum emphasizes how these developments could significantly impact health and the environment by 2025.