Short Wave

The speakers kick off the New Year with reflections on the past year's ups and downs. They delve into the holiday aftermath, sharing humorous takes on dealing with hangovers. Scientific insights into alcohol consumption are sprinkled throughout, along with effective recovery tips to ease the transition into the new year. Gratitude for listener support is also emphasized, highlighting the significance of public radio funding.

Discover the fascinating story of tennessine, one of the rarest synthetic elements. Learn about its complex creation process involving berkelium and calcium, and the scientific teamwork behind its discovery. Delve into the chaotic journey of transporting this radioactive element, including customs hurdles due to its precarious half-life. Explore the excitement of expanding the periodic table and the ongoing quest for new synthetic elements, highlighting the thrilling possibilities of atomic formation.

The hosts take a nostalgic look back at 2009's cultural moments. They highlight groundbreaking scientific progress over the past decade, including the monumental detection of gravitational waves from colliding black holes. The discussion dives into CRISPR gene editing and the ethical questions it raises. Key moments like the Ebola outbreak, discoveries related to Mars water, and interstellar objects are also explored, illustrating how science has shaped our understanding of the universe and our planet's challenges.

Astrophysicist Adam Frank, known for his work as a science advisor for Marvel's Doctor Strange, shares his insights on the relationship between science and storytelling in cinema. He discusses key sci-fi films of the last decade, emphasizing the balance between scientific accuracy and engaging narratives. Adam highlights movies like 'Ad Astra' and 'Arrival,' praising their character development and how they tackle complex themes. He also reveals his favorite TV show of the decade, 'The Expanse,' showcasing the depth of sci-fi storytelling.

Discover the surprising germ hotspots lurking at airports, including the infamous security trays that harbor more pathogens than toilets. Experts reveal vital insights from a study on respiratory viruses, emphasizing the need for cleanliness in crowded spaces. Tips for holiday travelers cover effective health practices like handwashing and minimizing contact with your face. Stay informed and proactive to ensure a safe and healthy journey as you navigate one of the germiest environments you might encounter!

Celebrate the holidays with quirky science facts that will impress your friends! Discover how reindeer communicate in unusual ways and learn the surprising truth about mistletoe being a parasite. Maddie and Emily blend festive cheer with insightful tidbits, making this a playful and informative treat for the season.

On Christmas Eve, scientists in Antarctica share carols through shortwave radio, creating a unique holiday tradition. Discover how this technology works, utilizing the Earth's ionosphere to span vast distances. Learn about amateur radio and its role in fostering global connections, as enthusiasts engage in scientific research. Hear stories of community building amidst the harsh Antarctic landscape, showcasing the uplifting power of music and communication.

Richard Harris, a longtime NPR science correspondent, shares riveting insights into the pivotal role of iridium in unraveling the dinosaur extinction mystery. He highlights how a father-son duo linked this rare element to a catastrophic asteroid impact, changing our understanding of mass extinctions. The discussion expands to the potential of iridium in tackling modern challenges, particularly in renewable energy technologies. As we celebrate 150 years of the periodic table, Harris connects the past with future possibilities for humanity's survival.

The podcast uncovers the heartbreaking history of the American chestnut tree, once a vital part of eastern U.S. ecosystems. A blight fungus wiped out billions, leaving cultural and ecological voids. Scientists are now striving to resurrect this iconic tree, using controversial genetic modifications. The discussions touch on the emotional ties communities have to the chestnut and the complex ethical decisions surrounding its revival. These restoration efforts highlight the intricate balance between nature and human intervention.

In this insightful discussion, Jamie Ducharme, a staff writer at Time, shares the inspiring journey of Robert Chelsea, who became the first African American to undergo a full face transplant after a life-altering accident. They delve into Robert's incredible resilience and transformation, the challenges he faced in finding a suitable donor, and the importance of representation in organ donation, particularly within the African American community. Their conversation highlights the power of personal stories to inspire others and foster trust in medical systems.