Shows
Short WaveDid Scientists Find Alien Life Or Just Controversy?Recently, a group of scientists claimed they found possible signs of life on a planet called K2-18b. The news made headlines. Researchers said they'd detected sulphur-based gases that, on Earth, are strongly associated with life. But the research caused an uproar in astronomy circles because other scientists don't think the data is strong enough to celebrate an alien find just yet. In fact, they have some real issues with how this whole thing went down, and a new analysis casts further doubt on the findings. NPR science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce is here to wade into the controversy — and te...2025-05-0511 minShort WaveDid Scientists Find Alien Life Or Just Controversy?Recently, a group of scientists claimed they found possible signs of life on a planet called K2-18b. The news made headlines. Researchers said they'd detected sulphur-based gases that, on Earth, are strongly associated with life. But the research caused an uproar in astronomy circles because other scientists don't think the data is strong enough to celebrate an alien find just yet. In fact, they have some real issues with how this whole thing went down, and a new analysis casts further doubt on the findings. NPR science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce is here to wade into the controversy — and te...2025-05-0511 min
Short WaveThis Telescope Could Find "Planet 9"Some scientists are convinced that beyond Neptune, there's a planet they've yet to see. This so-called "Planet 9" is so far away, it would be a faint object. The stretch of sky researchers would have to search is huge. But a new astronomical facility on a mountaintop in Chile could help tackle the search. The NSF-DOE Vera C. Rubin Observatory has been under construction for years. Now, scientists are finetuning its instruments so the telescope can begin its 10-year mission of taking images of almost the entire southern sky. Read more of science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce's reporting here.2025-04-2512 minShort WaveThis Telescope Could Find "Planet 9"Some scientists are convinced that beyond Neptune, there's a planet they've yet to see. This so-called "Planet 9" is so far away, it would be a faint object. The stretch of sky researchers would have to search is huge. But a new astronomical facility on a mountaintop in Chile could help tackle the search. The NSF-DOE Vera C. Rubin Observatory has been under construction for years. Now, scientists are finetuning its instruments so the telescope can begin its 10-year mission of taking images of almost the entire southern sky. Read more of science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce's reporting here.2025-04-2512 min
MischkeTransient and StrangeMischke makes a rather bold move. He attempts to become "The Great One."While he falls miserably short, he does have an interesting conversation with a national science writer named Nell Greenfieldboyce. Her new book is titled Transient and Strange. Plus he also accidentally interrupts a very private therapy session, kicking off station alarms. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices2025-04-191h 15MischkeTransient and StrangeMischke makes a rather bold move. He attempts to become "The Great One."While he falls miserably short, he does have an interesting conversation with a national science writer named Nell Greenfieldboyce. Her new book is titled Transient and Strange. Plus he also accidentally interrupts a very private therapy session, kicking off station alarms. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.2025-04-191h 09
Short WaveRare Narwhal Footage Shows New Tusk ActivitiesWhat are the narwhals up to? Generally, we don't really know! They are mysterious creatures. NPR science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce talks about new, rare drone footage scientists captured of arctic narwhals. The video sparked new ideas for how they use their tusks.Read Nell's full piece.Love mysterious critters and want to hear more? Email us at shortwave@npr.org.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy2025-03-2812 minShort WaveRare Narwhal Footage Shows New Tusk ActivitiesWhat are the narwhals up to? Generally, we don't really know! They are mysterious creatures. NPR science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce talks about new, rare drone footage scientists captured of arctic narwhals. The video sparked new ideas for how they use their tusks.Read Nell's full piece.Love mysterious critters and want to hear more? Email us at shortwave@npr.org.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy2025-03-2812 min
TechNation Radio PodcastEpisode 25-03 One Drug, Many DiseasesOn this week’s Tech Nation, Moira speaks with Dr. David Fajgenbaum, a Professor at Pennsylvania School of Medicine, and President of Every Cure, talks about his efforts to unlock the hidden potential of existing drugs to save his own life, and others. Then, NPR science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce talks about her take on being a science journalist and about her book, “Transient and Strange… Notes on the Science of Life”.2025-01-2359 min
TechNation Radio PodcastEpisode 25-03 One Drug, Many DiseasesOn this week’s Tech Nation, Moira speaks with Dr. David Fajgenbaum, a Professor at Pennsylvania School of Medicine, and President of Every Cure, talks about his efforts to unlock the hidden potential of existing drugs to save his own life, and others. Then, NPR science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce talks about her take on being a science journalist and about her book, “Transient and Strange… Notes on the Science of Life”.2025-01-2359 min
Sound of IdeasNPR hosts and personalities discuss some of the books they published this yearPeople like Mo Rocca, Nell Greenfieldboyce, and Sarah McCammon all wrote books in 2024 and spoke to Ideastream Public Media about those works.2024-12-2449 min
Short WaveWhat The Heck Is A Rock Glacier?Even though there are more than 10,000 rock glaciers in the western United States, most people would look at one without knowing it. Unlike the snowy glaciers we're more familiar with, rock glaciers are under-researched and hiding in plain sight. But inside these glaciers covered with rocks is a little bit of climate hope.Read more of science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce's reporting here. Want to know more about the hidden science of the world? Email us at shortwave@npr.org — we might cover it on a future episode!Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.co...2024-10-1112 minShort WaveWhat The Heck Is A Rock Glacier?Even though there are more than 10,000 rock glaciers in the western United States, most people would look at one without knowing it. Unlike the snowy glaciers we're more familiar with, rock glaciers are under-researched and hiding in plain sight. But inside these glaciers covered with rocks is a little bit of climate hope.Read more of science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce's reporting here. Want to know more about the hidden science of the world? Email us at shortwave@npr.org — we might cover it on a future episode!Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.co...2024-10-1112 min
Curiosity WeeklyMoon Clock, Meat Allergy, Bird CultureToday, you’ll learn about how to sync up clocks on Earth with clocks on the moon, a nanoparticle that could help relieve stubborn allergies, and the culture of birds. Moon Clock “Researchers figure out how to keep clocks on the Earth, Moon in sync.” by John Timmer. 2024. “The Relativistic Framework to Estimate Clock Rates on the Moon.” by Neil Ashby & Bijunath R. Patla. 2024. Meat Allergy “Tick-borne red meat allergy prevented in mice through new nanoparticle treatment.” by Jim Lynch. 2024. “TAK-101 Nanoparticles Induce Gluten-Specific Tolerance in Celiac Disease: A Randomized, D...2024-09-2612 min
Short WaveThis Unremarkable Ant From Europe Quietly Conquered NYCNew York: The city that never sleeps, the concrete jungle where dreams are made of and more recently ... home to a mysterious ant spreading across the city — before continuing across metropolitan and even state lines. NPR science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce joins host Regina G. Barber to trace the MahattAnts' takeover, explain why they're an interesting invasive species case study. Plus, how everyday people can get involved in research efforts to learn more about these critters.Read more of Nell's ManhattAnt story here. And if you like this story, check out our story on ant amputation!Interested in...2024-08-2613 min
Short WaveThis Unremarkable Ant From Europe Quietly Conquered NYCNew York: The city that never sleeps, the concrete jungle where dreams are made of and more recently ... home to a mysterious ant spreading across the city — before continuing across metropolitan and even state lines. NPR science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce joins host Regina G. Barber to trace the MahattAnts' takeover, explain why they're an interesting invasive species case study. Plus, how everyday people can get involved in research efforts to learn more about these critters.Read more of Nell's ManhattAnt story here. And if you like this story, check out our story on ant amputation!Interested in...2024-08-2613 min
Short WaveLike Humans, These Ants Can Perform Leg Amputations To Save LivesSome ants herd aphids. Some farm fungi. And now, scientists have realized that when an ant injures its leg, it sometimes will turn to a buddy to perform a lifesaving limb amputation. Not only that — some ants have probably been amputating limbs longer than humans! Today, thanks to the reporting of ant enthusiast and science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce, we behold the medical prowess of the ant.Want to hear more cool stories about the tiny critters among us? Email us at shortwave@npr.org — we'd love to know!Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adch...2024-07-1013 minShort WaveLike Humans, These Ants Can Perform Leg Amputations To Save LivesSome ants herd aphids. Some farm fungi. And now, scientists have realized that when an ant injures its leg, it sometimes will turn to a buddy to perform a lifesaving limb amputation. Not only that — some ants have probably been amputating limbs longer than humans! Today, thanks to the reporting of ant enthusiast and science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce, we behold the medical prowess of the ant.Want to hear more cool stories about the tiny critters among us? Email us at shortwave@npr.org — we'd love to know!Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adch...2024-07-1013 min
Short WaveHow To Make The Most Of Next Week's Solar EclipseOn April 8, the moon will slip in front of the sun, blocking its light and creating an eerie twilight in the middle of the day. Stars will come out, the air will get cold, colors will dance around the horizon. It's a full-body experience born from the total solar eclipse that will be visible from North America. Today on the show, Regina G. Barber talks to NPR science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce about why some people say this experience is one of the most beautiful celestial events you can see – and how to prepare for it. Want mo...2024-04-0313 min
Short WaveHow To Make The Most Of Next Week's Solar EclipseOn April 8, the moon will slip in front of the sun, blocking its light and creating an eerie twilight in the middle of the day. Stars will come out, the air will get cold, colors will dance around the horizon. It's a full-body experience born from the total solar eclipse that will be visible from North America. Today on the show, Regina G. Barber talks to NPR science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce about why some people say this experience is one of the most beautiful celestial events you can see – and how to prepare for it. Want more ways to enjoy th...2024-04-0313 min
Relish The Full Audiobook That Keeps Knowledge Hunters Hooked.Transient and Strange: Notes on the Science of Life by Nell GreenfieldboycePlease visithttps://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/1/audiobook/738435to listen full audiobooks.
Title: Transient and Strange: Notes on the Science of Life
Author: Nell Greenfieldboyce
Narrator: Nell Greenfieldboyce
Format: Unabridged Audiobook
Length: 6 hours 25 minutes
Release date: March 26, 2024
Genres: Social Science
Publisher's Summary:
In her career as a science reporter, Nell Greenfieldboyce has reported from inside a space shuttle, the bottom of a coal mine, and the control room of a particle collider; she's presented news on the color of dinosaur eggs, ice worms that live on mountaintop glaciers, and signs of life on Venus. In this, her debut book, she delivers a...2024-03-266h 25
Grab the Top Full Audiobooks in Non-Fiction, Social ScienceTransient and Strange: Notes on the Science of Life by Nell GreenfieldboycePlease visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/1/audiobook/738435 to listen full audiobooks. Title: Transient and Strange: Notes on the Science of Life Author: Nell Greenfieldboyce Narrator: Nell Greenfieldboyce Format: Unabridged Audiobook Length: 6 hours 25 minutes Release date: March 26, 2024 Genres: Social Science Publisher's Summary: In her career as a science reporter, Nell Greenfieldboyce has reported from inside a space shuttle, the bottom of a coal mine, and the control room of a particle collider; she's presented news on the color of dinosaur eggs, ice worms that live on mountaintop glaciers, and signs of life on Venus. In this, her debut book, she delivers...2024-03-2630 min
Access Essential Full Audiobooks in Religion & Spirituality, ChristianityTransient and Strange: Notes on the Science of Life by Nell GreenfieldboycePlease visit https://thebookvoice.com/podcasts/1/audiobook/738435 to listen full audiobooks. Title: Transient and Strange: Notes on the Science of Life Author: Nell Greenfieldboyce Narrator: Nell Greenfieldboyce Format: Unabridged Audiobook Length: 6 hours 25 minutes Release date: March 26, 2024 Genres: Christianity Publisher's Summary: In her career as a science reporter, Nell Greenfieldboyce has reported from inside a space shuttle, the bottom of a coal mine, and the control room of a particle collider; she's presented news on the color of dinosaur eggs, ice worms that live on mountaintop glaciers, and signs of life on Venus. In this, her debut book, she delivers a...2024-03-2630 min
51 PercentFar outOn this week’s 51%, our associate producer Jody Cowan catches up with NASA astronaut, engineer, and chemist Tracy Caldwell Dyson ahead of her third mission to the International Space Station this month. During her six-month stay, Dyson will help maintain station equipment and contribute to a number of ongoing science experiments. WAMC’s Ian Pickus also speaks with NPR science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce about her new book, Transient and Strange.
Guests: Tracy Caldwell Dyson, NASA astronaut; Rebecca Van Tassell, program coordinator at Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies; Nell Greenfieldboyce, NPR science correspondent and author of Transient and Stra...2024-03-1430 min51 PercentFar outOn this week’s 51%, our associate producer Jody Cowan catches up with NASA astronaut, engineer, and chemist Tracy Caldwell Dyson ahead of her third mission to the International Space Station this month. During her six-month stay, Dyson will help maintain station equipment and contribute to a number of ongoing science experiments. WAMC’s Ian Pickus also speaks with NPR science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce about her new book, Transient and Strange.
Guests: Tracy Caldwell Dyson, NASA astronaut; Rebecca Van Tassell, program coordinator at Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies; Nell Greenfieldboyce, NPR science correspondent and author of Transient and Stra...2024-03-1430 min
Short WaveThe Recent Glitch Threatening Voyager 1The Voyager 1 space probe is the farthest human-made object in space. It launched in 1977 with a golden record on board that carried assorted sounds of our home planet: greetings in many different languages, dogs barking, and the sound of two people kissing, to name but a few examples. The idea with this record was that someday, Voyager 1 might be our emissary to alien life – an audible time capsule of Earth's beings. Since its launch, it also managed to complete missions to Jupiter and Saturn. In 2012, it crossed into interstellar space. But a few months ago, the probe encountered a...2024-03-0612 min
Short WaveThe Recent Glitch Threatening Voyager 1The Voyager 1 space probe is the farthest human-made object in space. It launched in 1977 with a golden record on board that carried assorted sounds of our home planet: greetings in many different languages, dogs barking, and the sound of two people kissing, to name but a few examples. The idea with this record was that someday, Voyager 1 might be our emissary to alien life – an audible time capsule of Earth's beings. Since its launch, it also managed to complete missions to Jupiter and Saturn. In 2012, it crossed into interstellar space. But a few months ago, the probe encountered a...2024-03-0612 min
Strong Sense of Place | Travel Through BooksLoLT: Mel’s Shakespeare Project and Two New BooksIn this episode, we’re excited about two books: Lives of the Monster Dogs by Kirsten Bakis and Transient and Strange by Nell Greenfieldboyce. Then Mel talks about how she’s delving into Shakespeare.This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try at betterhelp.com/StrongSense and get on your way to being your best self.LinksLives of the Monster Dogs by Kirsten BakisKing Nyx by Kirsten BakisTransient and Strange: Notes on the Science of Life by Nell Greenfield...2024-03-0117 min
KJZZ's WordWord S11.2 – Crime from E.A. Aymar, Gary Sarnoff plays ball, science with NPR’s Nell GreenfieldboyceOn this episode of KJZZ's Word podcast about literature, we feature stories about a crime, a baseball historian with a century-old tale and science from an NPR correspondent. Plus, we have the winner of this year’s KJZZ Haiku Writing Contest.2024-02-2727 minTechNation Radio PodcastEpisode 24-06 One Drug, Many DiseasesOn this week’s Tech Nation, Moira speaks withDr. David Fajgenbaum, a Professor at the Pennsylvania School of Medicine and President of Every Cure, talks about his efforts to unlock the hidden potential of existing drugs to save his own life and others. Then, NPR science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce talks about her take on being a science journalist and about her book, “Transient and Strange… Notes on the Science of Life”.2024-02-0959 minTechNation Radio PodcastEpisode 24-06 One Drug, Many DiseasesOn this week’s Tech Nation, Moira speaks withDr. David Fajgenbaum, a Professor at the Pennsylvania School of Medicine and President of Every Cure, talks about his efforts to unlock the hidden potential of existing drugs to save his own life and others. Then, NPR science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce talks about her take on being a science journalist and about her book, “Transient and Strange… Notes on the Science of Life”.2024-02-0959 min
Idaho MattersNPR's Nell Greenfieldboyce's new book gets personal Transient and Strange: Notes on the Science of Life is Nell Greenfieldboyce's first book.( W.W. Norton, Timothy Devine)NPR Science Correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce has been a reporter for almost 30 years and in that time she’s reported on everything from the space shuttle to gene therapy to pet cloning.Now she’s written her first book titled “Transient and Strange.” It’s a heartfelt collection of essays about some very personal stories.She sat down with our Morning Edition Host George Prentice to talk about the book.2024-01-2209 min
Short WaveThis Wild Bird Will Lead You To Honey On CommandHoneyguides are wild birds that team up with humans and then lead them to honey. Researchers recently found that the calls these birds respond to are unique and tied to their location. NPR science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce talks about this relationship and shares how researchers followed honeyguides to learn about their call behaviors. Read Nell's full story here. Hear about an amazing wildlife phenomenon? Email us at shortwave@npr.org. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy2024-01-2213 min
Short WaveThis Wild Bird Will Lead You To Honey On CommandHoneyguides are wild birds that team up with humans and then lead them to honey. Researchers recently found that the calls these birds respond to are unique and tied to their location. NPR science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce talks about this relationship and shares how researchers followed honeyguides to learn about their call behaviors. Read Nell's full story here. Hear about an amazing wildlife phenomenon? Email us at shortwave@npr.org. 2024-01-2213 min
The Arik Korman ShowNell Greenfieldboyce on the Science of LifeNational Public Radio Science Correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce discusses what we can say to our kids to soothe their fears, what it's like being a national science correspondent for NPR, and what Nell's primary role is as a parent. Her new book is Transient and Strange: Notes on the Science of Life.2024-01-1923 min
Ozarks at LargeCharting Arkansas' economic growth, recommendations for outdoor winter funOn today's show, learning what a billion dollars in proposed investments looks like. Also, "I am Northwest Arkansas" takes listeners beyond the stage at TheatreSquared. Plus, NPR science reporter Nell Greenfieldboyce reflects on the relationship between science and life.2024-01-1654 min
Talk Nerdy with Cara Santa MariaTransient and Strange w/ Nell GreenfieldboyceIn this episode of Talk Nerdy, Cara is joined by NPR science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce. They talk about her new book, "Transient and Strange: Notes on the Science of Life." Follow Nell: @nellgreenfieldboyce.2024-01-1552 min
Scientific American Podcast: Science TalkThe Strange and Beautiful Science Of Our LivesNell Greenfieldboyce discusses her new book Transient and Strange, the intimacy of the essays and the science that inspired them. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2024-01-0516 minScience QuicklyThe Strange and Beautiful Science Of Our LivesNell Greenfieldboyce discusses her new book Transient and Strange, the intimacy of the essays and the science that inspired them. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices2024-01-0516 minScience QuicklyThe Strange and Beautiful Science Of Our LivesNell Greenfieldboyce discusses her new book Transient and Strange, the intimacy of the essays and the science that inspired them.2024-01-0514 min
Short WaveFlying Into Snowstorms ... For Science!For the past few winters, researchers have been intentionally flying into snowstorms. And high in those icy clouds, the team collected all the information they could to understand—how exactly do winter storms work? With more accurate data could come more accurate predictions about whether a storm would cause treacherous conditions that shut down schools, close roads and cancel flights. NPR science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce recently took to the skies for one of these flights and shares her reporting with us today.Read more of Nell's reporting on this NASA effort: https://n.pr/3lk9utH2023-03-1713 min
Short WaveFlying Into Snowstorms ... For Science!For the past few winters, researchers have been intentionally flying into snowstorms. And high in those icy clouds, the team collected all the information they could to understand—how exactly do winter storms work? With more accurate data could come more accurate predictions about whether a storm would cause treacherous conditions that shut down schools, close roads and cancel flights. NPR science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce recently took to the skies for one of these flights and shares her reporting with us today.Read more of Nell's reporting on this NASA effort: https://n.pr/3lk9utH2023-03-1713 min
Short WaveWho Gets The First Peek At The Secrets Of The Universe?The James Webb Space Telescope is by far the most powerful space-based telescope ever deployed by the United States. But it is only one instrument, and scientists all over the world have to share. The JWST's managers received more than 1,600 research proposals for what the telescope should look at. When an astronomer or a team does get some much-coveted telescope time, they currently get exclusive access to whatever data they collect for a full year. But there is a movement in astronomy to make most results open-access right away. That might speed up the pace of scientific discoveries...2023-02-0711 min
Short WaveWho Gets The First Peek At The Secrets Of The Universe?The James Webb Space Telescope is by far the most powerful space-based telescope ever deployed by the United States. But it is only one instrument, and scientists all over the world have to share. The JWST's managers received more than 1,600 research proposals for what the telescope should look at. When an astronomer or a team does get some much-coveted telescope time, they currently get exclusive access to whatever data they collect for a full year. But there is a movement in astronomy to make most results open-access right away. That might speed up the pace of scientific discoveries...2023-02-0711 min
Short WaveBehold! The Mysterious Ice WormInside the mountaintop glaciers of the Pacific Northwest lives a mysterious, and often, overlooked creature. They're small, black, thread-like worms that wiggle through snow and ice. That's right, ice worms! Little is known about them. But one thing scientists are sure of? They can't really handle freezing temperatures. In this episode, NPR science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce talks to Emily about how ice worms survive in an extreme environment and why scientists don't understand some of the most basic facts about them.2023-01-1213 min
Short WaveBehold! The Mysterious Ice WormInside the mountaintop glaciers of the Pacific Northwest lives a mysterious, and often, overlooked creature. They're small, black, thread-like worms that wiggle through snow and ice. That's right, ice worms! Little is known about them. But one thing scientists are sure of? They can't really handle freezing temperatures. In this episode, NPR science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce talks to Emily about how ice worms survive in an extreme environment and why scientists don't understand some of the most basic facts about them.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy2023-01-1213 min
Short WaveZircon: The Keeper Of Earth's TimeThe mineral zircon is the oldest known piece of Earth existing on the surface today. The oldest bits date back as far as 4.37 billion years — not too far from the age of Earth itself at about 4.5 billion years old. And, unlike other minerals, zircon is hard to get rid of. This resilience enables scientists to use zircon to determine when major geological events on Earth happened. As part of our series on time, host Aaron Scott talks to science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce about why this mineral is often considered a geologic clock and has earned the nickname "Time Lord." 2023-01-1011 min
Short WaveZircon: The Keeper Of Earth's TimeThe mineral zircon is the oldest known piece of Earth existing on the surface today. The oldest bits date back as far as 4.37 billion years — not too far from the age of Earth itself at about 4.5 billion years old. And, unlike other minerals, zircon is hard to get rid of. This resilience enables scientists to use zircon to determine when major geological events on Earth happened. As part of our series on time, host Aaron Scott talks to science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce about why this mineral is often considered a geologic clock and has earned the nickname "Time Lord." 2023-01-1011 min
Short WaveArts Week: Harnessing Bacteria For ArtPull out your art supplies because it's time to get crafty—with agar! We're beginning Arts Week at the intersection of biology and art. Therein lies a creative medium that's actually alive. Scientists and artists practice etching designs on petri dishes with bacterial paint that can grow and multiply. This encore episode, Aaron talks with science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce about her foray into the agar art world. Love the science powering another craft? Email the show at shortwave@npr.org.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy2022-11-2812 min
Short WaveArts Week: Harnessing Bacteria For ArtPull out your art supplies because it's time to get crafty—with agar! We're beginning Arts Week at the intersection of biology and art. Therein lies a creative medium that's actually alive. Scientists and artists practice etching designs on petri dishes with bacterial paint that can grow and multiply. This encore episode, Aaron talks with science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce about her foray into the agar art world. Love the science powering another craft? Email the show at shortwave@npr.org.2022-11-2812 min
Short Wave100 Years Of Box TurtlesThe common box turtle is found just about anywhere in the continental United States east of Colorado. For all their ubiquity, it's unclear how many there are or how they're faring in the face of many threats—from lawn mowers to climate change to criminals. So today, science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce presents the researchers hunting for turtles—and for answers. They're creating a century-long study to monitor thousands of box turtles in North Carolina.Heard about other ambitious research? We want to know! Reach us by tweeting @NPRShortWave or emailing shortwave@npr.org.Learn more about spon...2022-10-2813 min
Short Wave100 Years Of Box TurtlesThe common box turtle is found just about anywhere in the continental United States east of Colorado. For all their ubiquity, it's unclear how many there are or how they're faring in the face of many threats—from lawn mowers to climate change to criminals. So today, science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce presents the researchers hunting for turtles—and for answers. They're creating a century-long study to monitor thousands of box turtles in North Carolina.Heard about other ambitious research? We want to know! Reach us by tweeting @NPRShortWave or emailing shortwave@npr.org.2022-10-2813 min
Short WaveAsteroid Deflection Mission, Activate!In movies, asteroids careening towards Earth are confronted by determined humans with nuclear weapons to save the world! But a real NASA mission wants to change the course of an asteroid now (one not hurtling towards Earth). The Double Asteroid Redirection Test, or DART, launched in 2021 and on Monday, September 26, 2022, makes contact with the celestial object. In 2021, NPR science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce talked about what it takes to pull off this mission and how it could potentially protect the Earth in the future from killer space rocks, and that's what you'll hear today. And stay tuned - when NASA has...2022-09-2613 min
Short WaveAsteroid Deflection Mission, Activate!In movies, asteroids careening towards Earth are confronted by determined humans with nuclear weapons to save the world! But a real NASA mission wants to change the course of an asteroid now (one not hurtling towards Earth). The Double Asteroid Redirection Test, or DART, launched in 2021 and on Monday, September 26, 2022, makes contact with the celestial object. In 2021, NPR science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce talked about what it takes to pull off this mission and how it could potentially protect the Earth in the future from killer space rocks, and that's what you'll hear today. And stay tuned - when NASA has...2022-09-2613 min
Short WaveArtemis: NASA's New Chapter In SpaceHumans haven't set foot on the moon in 50 years, but NASA hopes to take one step closer with the launch of a new rocket and space capsule on Monday. Today, science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce joins Scientist in Residence Regina G. Barber to talk about what NASA hopes to learn from this test flight and why it might be difficult to justify the program's cost.Planning to tune in for Monday's launch? Email us at shortwave@npr.org.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy2022-08-2511 min
Short WaveArtemis: NASA's New Chapter In SpaceHumans haven't set foot on the moon in 50 years, but NASA hopes to take one step closer with the launch of a new rocket and space capsule on Monday. Today, science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce joins Scientist in Residence Regina G. Barber to talk about what NASA hopes to learn from this test flight and why it might be difficult to justify the program's cost.Planning to tune in for Monday's launch? Email us at shortwave@npr.org.2022-08-2511 min
Consider This from NPRThe Long And Winding Journey Of The James Webb Space TelescopeThe James Webb Space Telescope has captured images of the universe that have stunned both scientists and the public. But for more than twenty years before its launch, the mission faced multiple delays, cost overruns, technical difficulties and threats from Congress to kill it altogether.We'll speak with some of the leaders of the Webb telescope mission who fought to keep it alive — and hear from astronomers whose work is now changed forever by its images.This episode also features reporting from NPR's Nell Greenfieldboyce.In participating regions, you'll also hear a local news se...2022-07-2612 min
Consider This from NPRThe Long And Winding Journey Of The James Webb Space TelescopeThe James Webb Space Telescope has captured images of the universe that have stunned both scientists and the public. But for more than twenty years before its launch, the mission faced multiple delays, cost overruns, technical difficulties and threats from Congress to kill it altogether.We'll speak with some of the leaders of the Webb telescope mission who fought to keep it alive — and hear from astronomers whose work is now changed forever by its images.This episode also features reporting from NPR's Nell Greenfieldboyce.In participating regions, you'll also hear a local news se...2022-07-2612 min
Consider This from NPRAs States Ban Abortion, Demand For Contraceptives Is RisingInterest in birth control and emergency contraception has surged since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned the right to abortion. But safe and reliable birth control isn't always easy to access. Now the FDA is considering whether to make birth control pills available without a prescription. If approved, it would be the first over-the-counter oral contraceptive in the U.S. We also hear from NPR's Nell Greenfieldboyce about the most popular form of contraception for women in the U.S. - permanent contraception, colloquially known as "getting your tubes tied" - and why barriers to access...2022-07-1811 min
Consider This from NPRAs States Ban Abortion, Demand For Contraceptives Is RisingInterest in birth control and emergency contraception has surged since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned the right to abortion. But safe and reliable birth control isn't always easy to access. Now the FDA is considering whether to make birth control pills available without a prescription. If approved, it would be the first over-the-counter oral contraceptive in the U.S. We also hear from NPR's Nell Greenfieldboyce about the most popular form of contraception for women in the U.S. - permanent contraception, colloquially known as "getting your tubes tied" - and why barriers to access...2022-07-1811 min
Short WaveMicro Wave: Scientists Discover GINORMOUS BacteriaThe Caribbean is home to gorgeous beaches, mangroves and ... the biggest bacteria known to humankind. Find out exactly how big from science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce in this Micro Wave. Then, stay for the listener mail, where we answer YOUR questions — all hosted by our new senior editor, Gabriel Spitzer!Do you have a question for Short Wave? Email us a voice memo at shortwave@npr.org.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy2022-06-3008 min
Short WaveMicro Wave: Scientists Discover GINORMOUS BacteriaThe Caribbean is home to gorgeous beaches, mangroves and ... the biggest bacteria known to humankind. Find out exactly how big from science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce in this Micro Wave. Then, stay for the listener mail, where we answer YOUR questions — all hosted by our new senior editor, Gabriel Spitzer!Do you have a question for Short Wave? Email us a voice memo at shortwave@npr.org.2022-06-3008 min
Short WaveLet's Get Crafty With Agar Art!Pull out your art supplies because it's time to get crafty--with agar! At the intersection of biology and art lies a creative medium that's actually alive. Scientists and artists practice etching designs on petri dishes with bacterial paint that can grow and multiply.Aaron Scott talks with science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce about her foray into the agar art world.Have another craft suggestion? Email the show at shortwave@npr.org.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy2022-06-2411 min
Short WaveLet's Get Crafty With Agar Art!Pull out your art supplies because it's time to get crafty--with agar! At the intersection of biology and art lies a creative medium that's actually alive. Scientists and artists practice etching designs on petri dishes with bacterial paint that can grow and multiply.Aaron Scott talks with science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce about her foray into the agar art world.Have another craft suggestion? Email the show at shortwave@npr.org.2022-06-2411 min
Short WavePlanetary Scientists Are Excited About UranusProbes to Uranus and to one of Jupiter's moons where conditions might support life; a better plan high-quality science on the moon--those are some of the recommendations in a new 700 page report to NASA. NPR science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce has looked at that report and talked to the experts. Today, she sifts through all the juicy details of where NASA is headed the next few decades.Read the decadal survey. Probe the Short Wave minds by emailing shortwave@npr.org.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy2022-04-2812 min
Short WavePlanetary Scientists Are Excited About UranusProbes to Uranus and to one of Jupiter's moons where conditions might support life; a better plan high-quality science on the moon--those are some of the recommendations in a new 700 page report to NASA. NPR science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce has looked at that report and talked to the experts. Today, she sifts through all the juicy details of where NASA is headed the next few decades.Read the decadal survey. Probe the Short Wave minds by emailing shortwave@npr.org.2022-04-2812 min
The Gray Area with Sean IllingThe conversation about guns we're not havingSean Illing talks with firearms journalist Stephen Gutowski, founder of TheReload.com. They discuss the major barriers, principles, and blind spots on both sides of the largely stagnant national conversation on guns and gun control in the United States. The conversation touches on political, legal, and emotional arguments motivating both gun enthusiasts and gun opponents; the Dickey Amendment, and its effective twenty-year ban on federally-funded gun violence research, and whether or not guns are truly part of American identity.Host: Sean Illing (@seanilling), Interviews Writer, VoxGuest: Stephen Gutowski (@StephenGutowski), firearms reporter and founder, TheReload...2022-03-071h 04
Short WaveChimp Haven Welcomes New RetireesIn 2015, the National Institutes of Health ended invasive biomedical research on its hundreds of chimps. Since then, it's been gradually moving the animals to a sanctuary in Louisiana called Chimp Haven. NPR science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce joins the show to talk about the NIH's effort to retire research chimps and why it's complicated.Read more of Nell's reporting about chimp retirement:https://n.pr/3HsgmLq, https://n.pr/3AW3smo and https://n.pr/3sbHyaVEmail the show at ShortWave@NPR.orgLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices...2022-02-0413 min
Short WaveChimp Haven Welcomes New RetireesIn 2015, the National Institutes of Health ended invasive biomedical research on its hundreds of chimps. Since then, it's been gradually moving the animals to a sanctuary in Louisiana called Chimp Haven. NPR science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce joins the show to talk about the NIH's effort to retire research chimps and why it's complicated.Read more of Nell's reporting about chimp retirement:https://n.pr/3HsgmLq, https://n.pr/3AW3smo and https://n.pr/3sbHyaVEmail the show at ShortWave@NPR.org2022-02-0413 min
Short WaveFighting Bias In Space: When There's A New Telescope, Who Gets To Use It?The James Webb Space Telescope's mirrors are almost in place and soon it'll be a million miles away from Earth, ready to provide clues to the history of the universe. Naturally, many scientists have research they'd like to do that involve the telescope. Today on the show, Emily talks with correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce about who gets time on it, and how decision-makers are working to stay focused on the proposed science instead of who will be doing it, in the hopes of making the process fair for all proposals.For more of Nell's reporting, check out, Who gets...2022-01-2114 min
Short WaveFighting Bias In Space: When There's A New Telescope, Who Gets To Use It?The James Webb Space Telescope's mirrors are almost in place and soon it'll be a million miles away from Earth, ready to provide clues to the history of the universe. Naturally, many scientists have research they'd like to do that involve the telescope. Today on the show, Emily talks with correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce about who gets time on it, and how decision-makers are working to stay focused on the proposed science instead of who will be doing it, in the hopes of making the process fair for all proposals.For more of Nell's reporting, check out, Who gets...2022-01-2114 min
Short WaveA Mission To Redirect An AsteroidIn movies, asteroids careening towards Earth confront determined humans with nuclear weapons to save the world! But a real NASA mission to change the course of an asteroid (one not hurtling towards Earth), the Double Asteroid Redirection Test (DART), is about to launch. NPR science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce joins the show to talk about what it takes to pull off this mission and how it could potentially protect the Earth in the future from killer space rocks. Email the show at shortwave@npr.org.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices2021-11-2212 min
Short WaveA Mission To Redirect An AsteroidIn movies, asteroids careening towards Earth confront determined humans with nuclear weapons to save the world! But a real NASA mission to change the course of an asteroid (one not hurtling towards Earth), the Double Asteroid Redirection Test (DART), is about to launch. NPR science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce joins the show to talk about what it takes to pull off this mission and how it could potentially protect the Earth in the future from killer space rocks. Email the show at shortwave@npr.org.2021-11-2212 min
Short WavePlanning for a space mission to last more than 50 yearsIn 1977, NASA sent out two Voyager probes to study Jupiter and Saturn. The spacecrafts were designed to last about five years, but they are still, to this day, collecting and sending back data from beyond the solar system. But the Voyager mission is living on borrowed time. Today NPR science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce talks about a proposal for an intentionally long mission - what it would take for NASA to actually plan for an interstellar voyage that would pass research and responsibility down through generations.What would you put on a spacecraft bound for the stars? Email the...2021-11-0314 min
Short WavePlanning for a space mission to last more than 50 yearsIn 1977, NASA sent out two Voyager probes to study Jupiter and Saturn. The spacecrafts were designed to last about five years, but they are still, to this day, collecting and sending back data from beyond the solar system. But the Voyager mission is living on borrowed time. Today NPR science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce talks about a proposal for an intentionally long mission - what it would take for NASA to actually plan for an interstellar voyage that would pass research and responsibility down through generations.What would you put on a spacecraft bound for the stars? Email the...2021-11-0314 min
Short WaveThe mystery of the mummified TwinkieA box of Twinkies, left alone for eight years, held some surprises for Colin Purrington. Upon having a sugar craving, combined with being "just so bored, with the pandemic," Purrington opened the box a few weeks ago. Like many people, Purrington believed Twinkies are basically immortal, although the official shelf life is 45 days. NPR's Nell Greenfieldboyce talked to Purrington and explains how two scientists got involved and started unraveling the mystery of the mummified Twinkie. (Encore episode)2021-10-1412 min
Short WaveThe mystery of the mummified TwinkieA box of Twinkies, left alone for eight years, held some surprises for Colin Purrington. Upon having a sugar craving, combined with being "just so bored, with the pandemic," Purrington opened the box a few weeks ago. Like many people, Purrington believed Twinkies are basically immortal, although the official shelf life is 45 days. NPR's Nell Greenfieldboyce talked to Purrington and explains how two scientists got involved and started unraveling the mystery of the mummified Twinkie. (Encore episode)Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy2021-10-1412 min
Short WaveAfter Years Of Delays, NASA's James Webb Space Telescope To Launch In DecemberIn December, NASA is scheduled to launch the huge $10 billion James Webb Space Telescope, which is sometimes billed as the successor to the aging Hubble Space Telescope. NPR correspondents Rhitu Chatterjee and Nell Greenfieldboyce talk about this powerful new instrument and why building it took two decades. For more of Nell's reporting on the telescope, check out "NASA Is Launching A New Telescope That Could Offer Some Cosmic Eye Candy." (https://www.npr.org/2021/09/16/1036600340/nasa-is-launching-a-new-telescope-that-could-offer-some-cosmic-eye-candy)You can follow Rhitu on Twitter @RhituC and Nell @Nell_Sci_NPR. Email Short Wave at ShortWave@NPR.org.2021-09-2414 min
Short WaveAfter Years Of Delays, NASA's James Webb Space Telescope To Launch In DecemberIn December, NASA is scheduled to launch the huge $10 billion James Webb Space Telescope, which is sometimes billed as the successor to the aging Hubble Space Telescope. NPR correspondents Rhitu Chatterjee and Nell Greenfieldboyce talk about this powerful new instrument and why building it took two decades. For more of Nell's reporting on the telescope, check out "NASA Is Launching A New Telescope That Could Offer Some Cosmic Eye Candy." (https://www.npr.org/2021/09/16/1036600340/nasa-is-launching-a-new-telescope-that-could-offer-some-cosmic-eye-candy)You can follow Rhitu on Twitter @RhituC and Nell @Nell_Sci_NPR. Email Short Wave at ShortWave@NPR.org.2021-09-2414 min
Short WaveThe Fight To Save Sunflower Sea StarsSunflower sea stars play a key role in ocean ecosystems on the West Coast - and they are disappearing in record numbers. Science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce tells us about the plight of the Sunflower sea star and one biologist's unique fight to save them.2021-08-2612 min
Short WaveThe Fight To Save Sunflower Sea StarsSunflower sea stars play a key role in ocean ecosystems on the West Coast - and they are disappearing in record numbers. Science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce tells us about the plight of the Sunflower sea star and one biologist's unique fight to save them.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy2021-08-2612 min
Short WaveMirror, Mirror, On The Wall: Can Animals Recognize Their Reflection At All?(Encore episode) The mirror self-recognition test has been around for decades. Only a few species have what it takes to recognize themselves, while others learn to use mirrors as tools. NPR science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce talks us through mirror self-recognition and why Maddie's dog is staring at her. For more science reporting and stories, follow Nell on twitter @nell_sci_NPR. And, as always, email us at shortwave@npr.org.2021-08-1311 min
Short WaveMirror, Mirror, On The Wall: Can Animals Recognize Their Reflection At All?(Encore episode) The mirror self-recognition test has been around for decades. Only a few species have what it takes to recognize themselves, while others learn to use mirrors as tools. NPR science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce talks us through mirror self-recognition and why Maddie's dog is staring at her. For more science reporting and stories, follow Nell on twitter @nell_sci_NPR. And, as always, email us at shortwave@npr.org.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy2021-08-1311 min
Short WaveGravitational Waves: Unlocking The Secrets Of The UniverseScience correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce gives us the latest in gravitational waves and shares what scientists have learned (and heard) from these tiny ripples in spacetime. Email the show at shortwave@npr.org2021-08-0613 min
Short WaveGravitational Waves: Unlocking The Secrets Of The UniverseScience correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce gives us the latest in gravitational waves and shares what scientists have learned (and heard) from these tiny ripples in spacetime. Email the show at shortwave@npr.orgLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy2021-08-0613 min
Short WaveThe Mysterious Ice WormOn the mountaintop glaciers of the Pacific Northwest lives a mysterious, and often, overlooked creature. They're small, thread-like worms that wiggle through snow and ice. That's right, ice worms! NPR science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce talks to Emily about how they survive in an extreme environment and why scientists don't understand some of the most basic facts about them. For more of Nell's reporting, you can follow her on Twitter @nell_sci_NPR. You can follow Emily @emilykwong1234. Email the show with suggestions or thoughts at ShortWave@NPR.org.2021-07-1213 min
Short WaveThe Mysterious Ice WormOn the mountaintop glaciers of the Pacific Northwest lives a mysterious, and often, overlooked creature. They're small, thread-like worms that wiggle through snow and ice. That's right, ice worms! NPR science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce talks to Emily about how they survive in an extreme environment and why scientists don't understand some of the most basic facts about them. For more of Nell's reporting, you can follow her on Twitter @nell_sci_NPR. You can follow Emily @emilykwong1234. Email the show with suggestions or thoughts at ShortWave@NPR.org.Learn more about sponsor message choices...2021-07-1213 min
Short WaveThe Curious Stardust At The Ocean FloorResearchers report in the journal Science that they appear to have some clues about the origin of Earth's plutonium - which has been long debated. Correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce explains that traces of rare forms of iron and plutonium have been found in extraterrestrial debris that had sunk to the bottom of the Pacific Ocean, hauled up by an oil company, then donated for research. By comparing the iron and the plutonium, scientists found the plutonium was likely forged in a cosmic cataclysm, perhaps a rare kind of supernova, and then rained down on Earth.Ever find yourself existentially...2021-05-2612 min
Short WaveThe Curious Stardust At The Ocean FloorResearchers report in the journal Science that they appear to have some clues about the origin of Earth's plutonium - which has been long debated. Correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce explains that traces of rare forms of iron and plutonium have been found in extraterrestrial debris that had sunk to the bottom of the Pacific Ocean, hauled up by an oil company, then donated for research. By comparing the iron and the plutonium, scientists found the plutonium was likely forged in a cosmic cataclysm, perhaps a rare kind of supernova, and then rained down on Earth.Ever find yourself existentially...2021-05-2612 min
Short WaveA 142-Year-Old Science Seed CaperOn April 15, at four o'clock in the morning, a small group of scientists found their way to a secret location. A light wintry mix of rain and snow was falling. The lousy weather was a relief because it meant even less of a chance that someone might randomly pass by.Today on the show, NPR science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce unearths why a new generation of scientists is digging up seeds under the cover of night buried 142 years ago.2021-04-2611 min
Short WaveA 142-Year-Old Science Seed CaperOn April 15, at four o'clock in the morning, a small group of scientists found their way to a secret location. A light wintry mix of rain and snow was falling. The lousy weather was a relief because it meant even less of a chance that someone might randomly pass by.Today on the show, NPR science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce unearths why a new generation of scientists is digging up seeds under the cover of night buried 142 years ago.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy2021-04-2611 min
Short WaveThe Queen's Squeak"Dialects" is one of those words tossed around a lot when talking about human language. They indicate where a speaker is from. But dialects aren't exclusive to humans; scientists have known for a while that whales and songbirds also show these variations in language. Today, NPR science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce explains research that expands that list to include naked mole rats.Yearning for more episodes about communication between animals? Or wish we would cover something else entirely? We'd love to hear your suggestions — shortwave@npr.org.2021-04-0711 min
Short WaveThe Queen's Squeak"Dialects" is one of those words tossed around a lot when talking about human language. They indicate where a speaker is from. But dialects aren't exclusive to humans; scientists have known for a while that whales and songbirds also show these variations in language. Today, NPR science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce explains research that expands that list to include naked mole rats.Yearning for more episodes about communication between animals? Or wish we would cover something else entirely? We'd love to hear your suggestions — shortwave@npr.org.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices2021-04-0711 min
Short WaveFulgurite: What A Lightning-Formed Rock May Have Contributed To Life On EarthWhen lightning strikes the ground, it can leave behind a root-like rock called a fulgurite. Host Maddie Sofia talks with NPR science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce about what lightning and its funky rock creation can reveal about the origins of life. To read more of the story, check out Nell's reporting here. You can email us at ShortWave@npr.org.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy2021-03-3109 min
Short WaveFulgurite: What A Lightning-Formed Rock May Have Contributed To Life On EarthWhen lightning strikes the ground, it can leave behind a root-like rock called a fulgurite. Host Maddie Sofia talks with NPR science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce about what lightning and its funky rock creation can reveal about the origins of life. To read more of the story, check out Nell's reporting here. You can email us at ShortWave@npr.org.2021-03-3109 min
Short WaveMeet The 'Glacier Mice'(Encore episode.) In 2006, while hiking around the Root Glacier in Alaska, glaciologist Tim Bartholomaus encountered something strange and unexpected on the ice — dozens of fuzzy, green moss balls. It turns out, other glaciologists had come across glacial moss balls before and lovingly called them "glacier mice." NPR science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce and Short Wave reporter Emily Kwong talk about glacial moss balls and delve into the mystery of how they seem to move as a herd. Read more of Nell's reporting on glacier mice here. Email the show at shortwave@npr.org.2021-03-2411 min
Short WaveMeet The 'Glacier Mice'(Encore episode.) In 2006, while hiking around the Root Glacier in Alaska, glaciologist Tim Bartholomaus encountered something strange and unexpected on the ice — dozens of fuzzy, green moss balls. It turns out, other glaciologists had come across glacial moss balls before and lovingly called them "glacier mice." NPR science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce and Short Wave reporter Emily Kwong talk about glacial moss balls and delve into the mystery of how they seem to move as a herd. Read more of Nell's reporting on glacier mice here. Email the show at shortwave@npr.org.Le...2021-03-2411 min
Short WaveWhat's In A Tattoo? Scientists Are Looking For AnswersThree in 10 people in America have a tattoo, and those in the 18 - 34 age bracket, it's almost 40 percent. But what's in those inks, exactly? NPR science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce talks about what researchers currently know about tattoo inks. It's not a lot, and researchers are trying to find out more. Email the show at ShortWave@npr.org.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy2021-02-0813 min
Short WaveWhat's In A Tattoo? Scientists Are Looking For AnswersThree in 10 people in America have a tattoo, and those in the 18 - 34 age bracket, it's almost 40 percent. But what's in those inks, exactly? NPR science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce talks about what researchers currently know about tattoo inks. It's not a lot, and researchers are trying to find out more. Email the show at ShortWave@npr.org.2021-02-0813 min