Science
Digging into diamonds, depression and placebos, astrophysicist Brian May
As the second-biggest diamond is dug out of the earth, science correspondent Allan Blackman looks at why we use the term carat to describe them and why they spontaneously turn into graphite. Audio
One of world's most endangered frogs released at Zealandia
There are no other wild populations on the mainland as they're heavily impacted by habitat loss, disease and predation.
Parents are shipping melatonin in from overseas. Why?
Some parents say melatonin is the only way to get their kids to sleep and the medication should be easier to get in New Zealand. Audio
The physics of light
Professor Sir Michael Berry is one of the world's leading theoretical physicists with a special interest in light. He's been in the country to deliver a lecture titled "The Physics of Light in Eighty… Audio
How little exercise can you get away with?
Doing short intense exercise bursts provides significant health benefits, new research shows, offering a promising alternative for those struggling to find time to do get enough exercise in. Audio
The Kiwi who's helping astronauts go to the stars
Bryan Caldwell has led earth-based "analogue" missions for the US space agency for six years, helping to prepare astronauts for the conditions of space in simulated isolation. Audio
Argue with Science
Mary Argue is back guiding us through the latest weird and wonderful headlines from the world of science. Audio
Calling Home: Bryan Caldwell in Houston, Texas
Originally from Upper Hutt, Bryan Caldwell started his working life as a stage lighting technician here in Aotearoa but for the past six years, he's been working for NASA at the Johnson Space Center… Audio
Stranded astronauts stuck in space until next year
Issues with the Boeing Starliner's propulsion system make it too risky to carry its first crew home, NASA said.
Why internet searches are serving up 'AI slop'
AI-generated gibberish is taking over the internet - unwanted and unloved, but unstoppable? Audio
Mpox 101 with Dr Chris Smith
A severe outbreak of a new variant of mpox with a death rate of 10% triggered the WHO to declare a global health emergency last week. Cambridge University clinical virologist and naked scientist Dr… Audio
Eggs, Evolution, and Life on Earth
Zoological correspondent and author Jules Howard on the revolutionary story of eggs. Audio
Should we be concerned about Whakaari/White Island?
The volcano is going through an "extended active period". What does that mean?
Lack of information on use of weedkiller in NZ that has been banned in US
The Environmental Protection Authority admits it does not know the extent to which a weed killer linked to birth defects is used in New Zealand. Audio
Pine forestry good for land and wallets - researchers
Rivers and lakes could be cleaned up and profits still generated for landowners by converting sheep and beef farms to pine trees, new research says.
What else can we learn from wastewater?
Wastewater testing became part of our daily lives during the Covid-19 pandemic, but what else can it tell us about what's happening in our communities? From looking for illicit drugs, to monitoring… Audio
What else can we learn from wastewater?
Wastewater testing became part of our daily lives during the Covid-19 pandemic, but what else can it tell us about what's happening in our communities? From looking for illicit drugs, to monitoring…
AudioOur Changing World – What our wastewater reveals
Wastewater testing became a part of our daily lexicon during the Covid-19 pandemic, but what else can it tell us? Claire Concannon meets some scientists using wastewater to figure out how much alcohol… Audio
Shower Thoughts: Why does mint make water taste colder?
Dr Farhana Pinu joins Emile Donovan to explain. Audio
How to get the best shot of the 'blue' supermoon
In case you missed it, a 'blue' supermoon has been lighting up our skies: here's how to get a great shot. Audio
