Nathaniel Rich, author of "Second Nature," "Losing Earth" and the sci-fi novel "Odds Against Tomorrow," discusses the state of contemporary fiction with Fiction Science co-hosts Dominica Phetteplace and Alan Boyle.

Mars Society President Robert Zubrin, author of "The New World on Mars," talks about the life that future settlers are likely to create on the Red Planet — and why they should go.

Physicist Paul Halpern, author of 'The Allure of the Multiverse,' explores the history of the scientific quest for parallel universes. Topics discussed include the concept of the multiverse, bubble universes, the challenges of proving its existence, connections between dark matter and the multiverse, time travel and its connection to the multiverse, and the potential of a scientific comic book about the multiverse.

John Tytus, the president of Pocock Racing Shells, talks about how the technology of rowing has changed since "The Boys in the Boat" won Olympic gold in 1936.

George Musser, veteran science writer, discusses the connections between artificial intelligence, quantum physics, and the quest to understand consciousness. The podcast explores the challenges of comprehending consciousness, the intersection of AI, quantum physics, and consciousness, and the possibility of simulating consciousness in AI systems. It also touches on the influence of observation on particle properties, the limitations of consciousness, and the potential partnership between humans and AI.

Zach Weinersmith, co-author of "A City on Mars," explains why humanity isn't ready to have people settle down and raise a family on Mars or in any other off-Earth locale.

Quantum physicist Shohini Ghose, author of "Her Space, Her Time," throws a spotlight on more than a dozen women physicists and astronomers who didn't get the recognition they deserved.

How much real-world AI research is reflected in "The Creator," Hollywood's latest cinematic tale about the rise of the machines? We turn to a panel of experts on artificial intelligence and its portrayal at the movies for an in-depth reality check.

John Scalzi talks about his latest satirical science-fiction novel, "Starter Villain," and the parallels to the antics of real-world tech billionaires.

Astronomer Chris Impey, author of the book "Worlds Without End," discusses the study of planets beyond our solar system, the search for alien life, and the long-term prospects for humanity's progress on the final frontier.