Short Wave

Nate Rott, an NPR climate correspondent, delves into the devastating wildfires plaguing Canada this year, which have burned over 20 million acres. He reveals how these fires are labeled 'unprecedented,' yet historical research shows they've occurred before. The discussion includes the significance of Canada's boreal forests and how insights from tree rings can inform future wildfire management. Rott also highlights the impact of climate change and past Indigenous land management on fire severity, shedding light on the intricate relationship between nature and human intervention.

Geoff Brumfiel, a science correspondent, takes listeners on an intriguing journey through the NS Savannah, the world’s only nuclear-powered passenger ship. He shares its fascinating history and significance as a symbol of peace during the Cold War era. Brumfiel delves into the ship's operational challenges and innovative nuclear technology, while discussing the dual nature of nuclear power and its implications for modern society. He also addresses the viability of nuclear energy in shipping and its potential role in combating climate change.

Join geologist Jackie Caplan-Auerbach, a professor at Western Washington University, as she dives into the cult classic 'The Core'. She and host Regina G. Barber humorously dissect the film's outrageous premise about a halted Earth's core, revealing the intricate realities of our planet's magnetic field. Despite its scientific blunders, Jackie shares why geologists still hold a fondness for this disaster film, blending entertainment with education. The conversation invites listeners to reflect on the absurdities and inaccuracies of science in media.

Explore the fascinating world of ticks and their role as disease carriers, particularly Lyme disease. Discover the research conducted in the Big Thicket National Preserve, diving into their feeding habits and geographic variations. Learn about efforts to create a vaccine against cattle fever ticks, with potential human applications on the horizon. Join a journey into the life of a medical entomologist dedicated to unraveling the mysteries of these critters and the implications of tick-borne illnesses as human habitats expand.

Discover the science that transforms tough cuts of meat into barbecue delicacies through chemical reactions during cooking. Learn how patience, low temperatures, and the Maillard reaction play significant roles in achieving perfect flavors and textures. Explore the fascinating dynamics of collagen and how smoking meat enhances its appeal. Uncover the meticulous techniques behind the art of barbecue, where cooking is a blend of chemistry and culinary skill!

Discover the fascinating world of gravitational waves and their connection to cosmic events like black hole collisions. Learn about a groundbreaking robot prototype designed for dynamic tasks, inspired by nature. Explore the unusual behavior of orcas in the Strait of Gibraltar as they exhibit aggression towards boats, a phenomenon that has puzzled scientists. Each topic reveals the innovative and sometimes surprising aspects of the natural and technological worlds.

In this conversation, Salomé Buglass, a marine ecologist and PhD candidate at the University of British Columbia, shares her thrilling discovery of a surprising kelp forest in the Galapagos Islands. She explains how this unusual finding challenges previous understandings of kelp's habitat and highlights its potential role in combating climate change. Salomé also discusses the ecological significance of kelp forests as vital nurseries for marine life and teases a newly identified species found in the depths of the ocean.

Allison Aubrey, an NPR science correspondent, delves into the essential but often misunderstood world of sunscreen. She reveals six common mistakes people make when applying it and emphasizes that using it correctly is more vital than the sunscreen type. The discussion covers proper application techniques, the necessity of reapplying sunscreen, and the reality that everyone, regardless of skin type, needs protection. Additionally, alternative sun safety strategies are explored, including the use of hats and umbrellas.

Anil Oza, a dynamic reporter, dives into the fascinating evolution of lab animals in scientific research. He discusses how traditional model organisms like rats and mice are giving way to unique critters that offer new insights. As research becomes more complex, Oza highlights the importance of matching research questions with appropriate animals. He also explores the potential of unconventional subjects, such as snails for their regenerative abilities and finches for understanding brain health, advocating for a more diverse approach in biological studies.

Communities across the U.S. are grappling with air pollution, especially in marginalized neighborhoods. A new NASA satellite, TEMPO, is set to track air quality, potentially revolutionizing cleanup efforts. Curtis Bay, a community plagued by coal dust, showcases the health risks residents face and their fight for cleaner air. The podcast discusses how satellite data could inform government actions and address systemic inequalities, offering hope for a healthier future.