Science

Nine countries now have nuclear weapons, even as the U.S. threatens to pull out of international non-proliferation treaties. That seems ominous. But is it? Do nuclear weapons even matter? Kerri Miller talks to three guests with three different views.
Cute aggression: Adorableness overload can lead to violent urges
Adorable babies and cute puppies can make us happy. But researchers say their cuteness can be so overwhelming that it unleashes some ugly thoughts.
Way beyond Pluto, an icy world is ready for its close-up
Minutes after the turn of the new year, NASA's New Horizons probe will fly by a minor planet in the most distant exploration of a world ever attempted.
Nancy Grace Roman, 'Mother Of Hubble' Space Telescope, dies at 93
Roman was one of the first female executives at NASA and its first chief of astronomy, and she played an instrumental role in making the Hubble Space Telescope a reality.
According to psychology professor Bridget Robinson-Riegler, smells have a strong connection to the memory parts of the brain. MPR News host Angela Davis talked to Professor Robinson-Riegler about smells and memories.
London airport open, but location of drone culprits up in air
London's Gatwick Airport was operating without problems Sunday, but the fugitive drone operators who brought incoming and outgoing flights to a standstill over multiple days remained at large.
Scientists find a brain circuit that could explain seasonal depression
Research suggests the winter blues are triggered by specialized light-sensing cells in the retina that communicate directly with brain areas involved in mood.
A sold-out conference on soil health? Absolutely, say farmers
A growing number of farmers are showing interest in more sustainable farming practices. A jam-packed conference on soil health in Fargo this week shows why.
Tiny tech tips: Finding the perfect headphones
Finding the right pair of headphones is a pain. Having engineered more than 400 of our Tiny Desk Concerts, NPR's Josh Rogosin knows audio -- and he's here to help.
DNA kits are a popular gift this holiday season. Two guests joined Angela Davis to talk about how they work, and what to know before you give — or take — one.