Short Wave

Nature Quest: How High Will Sea Levels Rise?

Why Do Some Hurricane Survivors Thrive After Disaster?

A Surprising Cause Of Endometriosis Could Lead To Cure

Tylenol and Autism: What’s True and What Isn’t

A Surprising Culprit of Food Allergies

This episode of NPR's Short Wave features an interview with Dr. Waheeda Samady, an expert in food allergies, who discusses the increasing prevalence of food allergies, their biological mechanisms, and potential reasons for their rise. She explains how the body reacts to allergens, the role of immune cells and inflammat...

Should You Try Red-Light Therapy?

Untangling The Science of Octopus Arms

What Does a Black Hole Collision Sound Like?

What Do Stem Cells Mean For The Future Of Parkinson's?

The Surprisingly Long History Of Nose Jobs

The Most Convincing Evidence Yet Of Life On Mars

Brain Implants Are Here — And Getting Better

In this episode of Short Wave, host Emily Kwong interviews Jon Hamilton about brain-computer interfaces (BCIs). Jon explains what BCIs are, how they work by detecting and translating electrical signals in the brain, and their potential to help individuals with paralysis regain movement and communication. The discussion...

'Interstellar': Time Dilation And Wormholes Explained

Sip or Skip? The Truth About Electrolytes

Regina Barber and Pien Huang co-host this episode of Short Wave, a science podcast from NPR, focusing on the science behind sports drinks. They discuss the role of electrolytes, how the body regulates them, and whether sports drinks are necessary or beneficial for most people. They consult with experts like Tamara Hugh...

What Marsquakes Reveal About The Planet's Habitability

Have a Stutter? It Could Be Inherited

Stopping SSRIs Can Be Hard. Researchers Are Unsure Why

A (Monday Night) Football Mystery

Why U.S. Sunscreens Don't Measure Up

A Lock of Hair Could Rewrite Knowledge Of The Inca Empire

Regina Barber hosts NPR science correspondent Nell Greenfieldboyce on Short Wave to discuss the Inca Empire's unique record-keeping system using knotted strings called khipus. They explore how these khipus, with their colors and knot placements, served as a form of writing, traditionally believed to be exclusive to eli...