Podcast Transcript In 1995, the first planet outside our solar system was discovered. Since then, with improved techniques and tools, over 5,000 exoplanets have been confirmed, and another 10,000 candidates are awaiting confirmation. With some of these exoplanets, astronomers can actually study their atmospheres and search for signs of life. Learn more about the search …
Podcast Transcript The modern world runs on metal wires. These thin metal strands literally circle the globe and are responsible for much of the world’s electrical power and communications. It is something so basic that most people never bother to stop and think about how wires are made. It turns out wire has been made …
Podcast Transcript Of all the cities that experienced the Second World War, one of the most interesting stories is that of Paris. Paris was not the scene of major fighting like Warsaw, which was all but destroyed. It was occupied for over four years, during which time it saw acts of resistance and collaboration. When …
Podcast Transcript Modern society is completely dependent on a set of technologies that include computer chips, fiber optic cables, lasers, video screens, electric motors, and batteries. All of those things are dependent on a small category of chemicals called rare earth elements. Their importance in technology has made them a focal point of international trade …
Podcast Transcript When I say precious metals, most of you probably immediately think of gold and silver. Historically, they have indeed been precious metals. However, they are not the only ones. There are elemental metals that are rarer and more expensive than gold. They have important industrial uses….and in some cases, they are much more …
Podcast Transcript Located in the South Pacific is the nation of Fiji. Fiji is an archipelago of 330 islands located about 1,100 nautical miles north of New Zealand. It is a unique mix of Pacific cultures with both Melanesian and Polynesian influences, with a dash of Indian influence as well. Given its size and population, …
This was a live episode, and there is no script available.
Podcast Transcript As of the recording of this episode, 1,012 people have been awarded Nobel Prizes across every category. This episode is not about any of them. This episode is about the people who didn’t win a Nobel Prize but arguably should have. Whether they were the victims of personal petty politics, geopolitics, or sexism, …
Podcast Transcript The Solar System is a pretty big place. When most people think of our Solar System, they probably think of the Sun, the planets, and all their moons. However, the solar system is much larger than most people realize. In fact, it is vastly larger than the model they have in their heads. …