Short Wave
New discoveries, everyday mysteries, and the science behind the headlines — in just under 15 minutes. It's science for everyone, using a lot of creativity and a little humor. Join hosts Emily Kwong and Regina Barber for science on a different wavelength.<br><br><em> Support public media by joining NPR+ at </em><a href="http://plus.npr.org/"target="_blank" ><em>plus.npr.org</em></a><em>. You’ll get perks for over 25 NPR podcasts, including sponsor-free listening for Short Wave.</em>
2 episodes
Episodes
Short Wave
Scientists race to map Earth’s hidden biodiversity
The species science has not yet documented could reshape conservation, medicine, and agriculture, but cataloging them raises daunting practical and ethical questions.
Sep 30, 2026 · 14 min
Short Wave
Stronger El Niños raise global climate risks
Coral records suggest human-caused warming has already intensified El Niño variability, increasing hazards from floods and droughts to heat and coral bleaching.
Sep 25, 2026 · 13 min