A Moment of Science
Episodes
Probing the limits of life in Antarctica
24 Dec 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Scientists have found evidence of microbial life in all of Earth's environments, but does that mean life can truly exist under any conditions? New res...
Deer parents probably aren't abandoning their fawns
23 Dec 2021
Contributed by Lukas
It's not uncommon to see a deer fawn alone, and sometimes our first assumption is it was abandoned by its parents. Today's A Moment of Science explain...
Having red hair could mean you have a higher pain tolerance
22 Dec 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Having red hair is incredibly rare, and could signal other unique differences your body has. Learn more about the relationship between hair color and ...
Why an egg's consistency changes as it cooks
21 Dec 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Eggs change from a liquid-like state to practically solid the longer you cook them, but why is that?
Goby fish can act like Goldilocks, too
20 Dec 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Goldilocks might have been a sensitive character in a fairytale, but the goby fish can be just as picky when finding a bed. Learn more about Goby-lock...
Benjamin Franklin burned through money, for science
17 Dec 2021
Contributed by Lukas
When Benjamin Franklin was researching how heat and cold are conducted, he performed some interesting experiments using cold hard cash. Learn more wit...
The silent song of asteroseismology
16 Dec 2021
Contributed by Lukas
In the 1600s, many people believed the stars produced musical vibrations. While it's true stars vibrate, they don't produce any sound. Asteroseismolog...
Does zero gravity actually exist?
15 Dec 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Seeing astronauts floating weightless is a commonly known image, but that weightlessness is different from actual zero gravity. Does zero gravity even...
The human genus may have a new member
14 Dec 2021
Contributed by Lukas
All modern humans belong to the same species, but that doesn't mean we were the only species. Scientists may have recently found a new member of our e...
The secret behind getting clear ice cubes
13 Dec 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Ice cubes always seem to be slightly cloudy in the middle. Why is that, and is it possible to avoid?
How mongoose pups benefit from a "veil of ignorance"
10 Dec 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Usually, operating with a "veil of ignorance" has few benefits. Researchers studying mongooses found that this might not always be the case in the ani...
Suggestions on judging statistics and risk assessment
09 Dec 2021
Contributed by Lukas
When confronted with something new, we often try to determine the potential risk associated with it. Today's A Moment of Science provides suggestions ...
Flip a coin, beat the odds
08 Dec 2021
Contributed by Lukas
In a hundred tosses of a coin, you expect about fifty heads. But do those odds change depending on what previous coin toss results were?
Science says you should read to your baby
07 Dec 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Research shows there are multiple benefits for babies who are read to at a young age.
The beetle that walks on the underside of the water's surface
06 Dec 2021
Contributed by Lukas
There's more than just one way to move around in the water, and this beetle has found one of the more unique modes of transportation.
A lost strain of rice is found again
03 Dec 2021
Contributed by Lukas
A staple of Southern cuisine, hill rice, was thought to be lost from the US. Finding it again has been an important development for geneticists and ho...
What the weather report doesn't tell you
02 Dec 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Weather reports usually come from a measurement at least six feet off the ground. While that reading is accurate, it doesn't show the full story of te...
Scientists study the unique birdsong known as bird incubation calls
01 Dec 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Zebra finches are among one finch species known to use bird incubation calls, a distinctive sound used only around the time of eggs hatching.
Research furthers potential muscle regeneration
30 Nov 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Researchers looked into further understanding a set of proteins known as the Yamanaka factors, hopefully leading to advancements in restoring muscle m...
"It takes one to know one"
29 Nov 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Scrub jays are known to steal from other birds, and their behavior towards others in their species shows shows everyone's in on the secret.
Why humans have baby teeth
26 Nov 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Baby teeth are valuable for childhood development, and for more reasons than keeping the tooth fairy employed. Today's A Moment of Science has more.
How do polar bears drink?
25 Nov 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Most water polar bears come in contact with is frozen, so how do they stay hydrated?
The lost continent of 'Icelandia'
24 Nov 2021
Contributed by Lukas
A team of Earth scientists published their hypothesis earlier this year that Iceland is just "the tip of the iceberg" for the continental crust of Ice...
The hairy truth behind trichomes
23 Nov 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Just like our hair, trichomes can cover a plant in a variety of ways. Today's A Moment of Science has more on these structures
How different cancer models actually model cancer
22 Nov 2021
Contributed by Lukas
There are many options to choose from when testing a cancer model. How do scientists pick which one is the best for their uses?
Turkeys actually make great wingmen
19 Nov 2021
Contributed by Lukas
The dating strategies for turkeys have benefits for those who don't pass along their genes.
Microbes in our brains are related to how infants develop fear
18 Nov 2021
Contributed by Lukas
While some have a fear of germs, new research shows our sense of fear might come from microbes in our brains.
Clearing out your wallet might be a pain reliever
17 Nov 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Cleaning out clutter always makes us feel better, but what about physically? Today's A Moment of Science looks at the benefits of a cleared-out wallet...
The importance of time when navigating deep space
16 Nov 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Navigating deep space remains a daunting challenge. New developments in atomic clocks hope to aid in this issue.
What it means when an experiment fails to replicate
15 Nov 2021
Contributed by Lukas
One of the main tenets of scientific study is results should be reproducible over and over again. But what happens when that's not possible?
The largest insect migration in the world
12 Nov 2021
Contributed by Lukas
The Painted Lady butterfly makes the long journey across the Sahara Desert regularly, making the longest insect migration in the world.
The chemistry of cooking with wine
11 Nov 2021
Contributed by Lukas
We've recently looked at cooking with vodka and beer, so what does cooking with wine do?
Mammals can press pause on their pregnancies
10 Nov 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Parents often say there's no perfect time to get pregnant. For some animals, embryonic diapause is a convenient workaround to this problem.
The benefits of baking with alcohol
09 Nov 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Many recipes can contain a secret ingredient. Today's A Moment of Science has a tip on what to add to your next pie.
Only three percent of Earth's land is ecologically intact
08 Nov 2021
Contributed by Lukas
The climate crisis has caused havoc on almost all areas of the planet. Research into biodiversity has led to a drastic statistic on Earth's ecology.
How red is "blood red" really?
05 Nov 2021
Contributed by Lukas
What color is blood? The answer might seem obvious, but color can depend on a couple factors in your body.
The mollusk with a rare iron mineral in its teeth
04 Nov 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Teeth can contain a wide variety of substances besides calcium. Scientists found a surprising mineral in the teeth of the gumboot chiton.
Scientists use drone technology to aid blowhole research
03 Nov 2021
Contributed by Lukas
There are many creative uses for drones, and scientists have found another way to use this new technology.
The irresistible scent of dead arthropods
02 Nov 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Some plants have come up with unique ways to encourage pollination. One flower even has a specific scent to help encourage the presence of flies.
Carbon-dating the mysterious Greenland shark reveals impressive lifespans
01 Nov 2021
Contributed by Lukas
There's a lot we don't know about the Greenland shark, making them very mysterious creatures. Some recent information tells us a little more about the...
Why the Midwest gets so many tornadoes
29 Oct 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Tornadoes touch down on every continent except Antarctica, but what makes them so tied to the midwest United States?
Do wild animals ever overeat?
28 Oct 2021
Contributed by Lukas
We don't often see obese animals in the wild, but does that mean that they don't exist?
The evolution of making porcelain
27 Oct 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Porcelain is a popular but incredibly fragile material for making everything from plates to dolls. Today's A Moment of Science looks closer at how it'...
The freezing and flowing waters of Mars
26 Oct 2021
Contributed by Lukas
We've heard a lot about liquid water on Mars, but how is this possible with low temperatures in the planet's early history?
The alligator gar is not an alligator
25 Oct 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Despite the name, the alligator gar is not a reptile. Learn more about these massive creatures with today's A Moment of Science.
How Neanderthals simplified the complex process of making tar
22 Oct 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Our prehistoric ancestors relied on the tools they made to survive, but how did they put those tools together in the first place?
Pandemic symptoms prompt unconventional respiratory research
21 Oct 2021
Contributed by Lukas
With the COVID-19 virus impacting breathing abilities, researchers have looked into potential respiratory failure treatment alternatives.
Missing out on sleep really adds up
20 Oct 2021
Contributed by Lukas
How tired is too tired? Today's A Moment of Science looks at how a few nights with little sleep can really add up.
Sharks use Earth's magnetic field to navigate
19 Oct 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Many animals have amazing sensory abilities. Thanks to recent research, scientists now have greater insight into how sharks navigate the seas.
You're a winner!
18 Oct 2021
Contributed by Lukas
It feels great to win, even if we only think we did. Researchers looked into how just thinking we've won impacts our bodies.
Scientists observe incredible aurora display known as a "space hurricane"
15 Oct 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Auroras are always incredible displays of light, and a recently observed phenomenon called a "space hurricane" is no exception.
Exploring the "twilight zone" of the ocean
14 Oct 2021
Contributed by Lukas
We've explored a relatively small part of our oceans, including a mysterious section known as the "Twilight Zone." Research has shown this area is not...
How Moon rocks differ from Earth rocks
13 Oct 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Impact theory helps explain why Moon rocks look so similar to stones here on Earth.
The trouble with drinking blood
12 Oct 2021
Contributed by Lukas
There are many animals with unique diets, but one of the most surprising is the vampire bat's. Today's A Moment of Science has more on the realities o...
Lightning strike rates are increasing in the Arctic
11 Oct 2021
Contributed by Lukas
In the past, the Arctic has been too cold to produce many thunderstorms. Warming temperatures are changing this environment and making lightning strik...
The fountain pen is mightier than the sword
08 Oct 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Today's A Moment of Science has more on the fountain pen, the perfect example of capillary action, in action.
How non-migrating birds stay warm in the winter
07 Oct 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Birds are known to migrate with seasonal temperature changes, but what do those who don't travel South for winter do?
The explosive methods of an ant's self-defense
06 Oct 2021
Contributed by Lukas
There are some strange methods animals use to defend themselves, and this ant is no exception.
Behind the familiar physics of alien rain
05 Oct 2021
Contributed by Lukas
We're all familiar with how rainfall on Earth works, but how does it differ on other planets?
The phenomenon of multiple discovery
04 Oct 2021
Contributed by Lukas
If Alexander Graham Bell had never lived, would we still have the telephone? The answer might be surprising, thanks to a pattern in science called mul...
Why many are making the switch to plant-based burgers
01 Oct 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Plant-based foods are becoming a popular alternative to meat products, and taste isn't the only factor convincing consumers to make the switch.
The Rodents Are Both Warm And Cold Blooded
30 Sep 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Most mammals, including humans, respond to cold temperatures the same way. Today's A Moment of Science looks at two exceptions
Lightweight Electric Vehicles: Can A Battery Double As A Structural Part Of A Vehicle?
29 Sep 2021
Contributed by Lukas
As electric batteries become more widely used in vehicles, a major hurdle to their widespread use is their weight. A new project looks to dual uses fo...
Fire: Not Just For Humans Anymore
28 Sep 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Humans have long been considered the only animals to use fire. However, scientific evidence from Australian Aboriginal groups have shown this is not t...
Butterfly Brains And Speciation
27 Sep 2021
Contributed by Lukas
What role do our brains play in evolution? Scientists study butterfly brains to learn more.
Is It A Waste To Wash Your Recyclables?
24 Sep 2021
Contributed by Lukas
We all try our best to reduce, reuse, recycle. But how much is washing out recycling really helping?
Plant Fossils Beneath The Greenland Ice Sheet
23 Sep 2021
Contributed by Lukas
A sample taken beneath Greenland's mile-thick ice sheet reveals much about the area's past million years of history, and provides a warning for its fu...
Some Countries Navigate Better Than Others
22 Sep 2021
Contributed by Lukas
What impacts our internal sense of direction? Research shows a surprising contributing factor.
Immune Response Of Early Embryos
21 Sep 2021
Contributed by Lukas
When do we develop our immune system?
Long-Lived Sea Species
20 Sep 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Animals like the tortoise are known to live much longer than humans. What other animals have equally impressive lifespans?
Changing Climate: Can Forests Make Like A Tree And Leave?
17 Sep 2021
Contributed by Lukas
As climate change becomes a more pressing issue, how will forests adapt to rising temperatures?
Bad Grades And Biological Clocks
16 Sep 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Doing well in classes is a bit more complicated to achieve than just studying hard. Today's A Moment of Science looks at how activity patterns might i...
Jonathan, The Giant Tortoise
15 Sep 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Have you heard of Jonathan the Giant Tortoise? Today's A Moment of Science has more on his impressive lifespan
Why Do African Apes Walk On Their Knuckles?
14 Sep 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Chimps and gorillas are the only animals to walk on their knuckles, but why do they do this?
Additive And Subtractive Strategies
13 Sep 2021
Contributed by Lukas
We often first think of adding a new variable when problem solving, like giving a dying houseplant more water or fertilizer. Why don't we think of tak...
Running On The Water
10 Sep 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Many animals and insects, including two species of grebes, can run on water. But what sets these birds apart from others?
Bacteria Can Survive The Harsh Conditions Of Space
09 Sep 2021
Contributed by Lukas
The origin of life on Earth is still a mystery. The theory of panspermia looks to bacteria for answers.
Guayule: A Promising Crop From The Desert
08 Sep 2021
Contributed by Lukas
What exactly is guayule, and why is this lesser-known crop so useful?
Did Whales Learn To Avoid Whalers?
07 Sep 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Sperm whales have the largest brain for any animal. Researchers are now wondering if that brain power leads to some interesting, complex thought.
The Cities Of The Maya
06 Sep 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Researchers have always known the Mayan built a sophisticated civilization, but had assumed their numbers to be fairly small. A breakthrough has broug...
The Microbial Time-Travelers Of Pangaea
03 Sep 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Microbes are usually quick to evolve, but what if there's no need to change? Today's A Moment of Science looks at some consistent microbial designs.
Fastidious Felines
02 Sep 2021
Contributed by Lukas
While it may seem like some of our furry friends' food preferences are incredibly picky, they actually have a refined pallet. Today's A Moment of Scie...
How Does Autotune Work?
01 Sep 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Very few of us can sing perfectly, but autotune helps hide a singer's mistakes. How does this process work?
The Scent Of Danger: Underwater
31 Aug 2021
Contributed by Lukas
In a crab-eat-crab underwater world, how are crustaceans able to protect themselves? Today's A Moment of Science has more on their sense for danger.
Albatross Conservation
30 Aug 2021
Contributed by Lukas
The albatross Wisdom has had an impressively long life. How can we best protect seabirds so they can experience the same?
What Is A Glacier?
27 Aug 2021
Contributed by Lukas
What are glaciers and how do they form? Today's A Moment of Science explains.
Feeding Cattle Seaweed
26 Aug 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Cows have a surprisingly high contribution to climate change. How can changing their diet help curb their impact?
Defensive Pessimism
25 Aug 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Are there different benefits to being either an optimist or a pessimist? Today's A Moment of Science looks at those who see the glass as "half full."
Was Oumuamua A Nitrogen Iceberg?
24 Aug 2021
Contributed by Lukas
A 2017 space anomaly still has astronomers questioning what they saw. Now, they might have a new theory.
Why We Choose To Listen To Sad Music
23 Aug 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Sometimes we listen to sad music to feel better, and sometimes we listen to feel sadder. Why do we do that?
Mechanical Gears In An Insect
20 Aug 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Gears can be found in almost every mechanical device. Researchers discovered nature has designed some of its own.
Humongous Fungus
19 Aug 2021
Contributed by Lukas
What's the world's largest single organism? This fungus makes whales and elephants look tiny in comparison.
The Patagonia Picnic Table Effect
18 Aug 2021
Contributed by Lukas
What is The Patagonia Picnic Table Effect? Today's A Moment of Science looks at the relationship between birders and rare bird sightings.
Glitter In The Environment
17 Aug 2021
Contributed by Lukas
If you've ever used glitter, it can seem like it takes forever to away. This is true for our environment as a whole, and today's A Moment of Science l...
Protecting Paddlefish Roe
16 Aug 2021
Contributed by Lukas
How can different species benefit from environmental protections? The case of the paddlefish is a good example of how we can better protect our neighb...
Life In The Deep Biosphere
13 Aug 2021
Contributed by Lukas
There's evidence that life can exist several miles underground. How do these unique ecosystems exist?
Trilobites Breathed Through Their Legs
12 Aug 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Humans have noses, fish have gills, and 450-million-year-old trilobites had dumbbell-shaped breathing structures hanging off their legs. Today's A Mom...
Turtles, Tortoises, Terrapins
11 Aug 2021
Contributed by Lukas
How can you tell the difference between a turtle, a tortoise, and a terrapin? Today's A Moment of Science breaks these classifications down.
The Oceans, Carbon, And Climate Change
10 Aug 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Climate change and carbon levels have a massive impact on our oceans. Newly published research looks into what the future of our oceans can look like.
Can Plants Learn?
09 Aug 2021
Contributed by Lukas
Pavlov's famous experiment ringing a bell before feeding a dog shed light on associative learning. Researchers wondered if plants were capable of maki...