Why We Still Look to the Stars — What the Planets Teach Us About Science

Published: December 2025

Summary
This column uses the historical study of the planets to illustrate how science evolves through observation, prediction, and revision. From early Babylonian astronomy through heliocentrism and modern discoveries, the piece shows how scientific models improve as evidence accumulates. The planets serve as a long-running example of how knowledge advances through testing and refinement.

Science themes:
history of astronomy, planetary science, scientific method, heliocentrism, observation and prediction

Related listening:
Wandering Stars: How We Found the Planets, Lost Pluto, and Learned How Science Really Works.

Read the original column in the Freshet!

Why Artemis II Matters — A Return to Deep Space

Published: January 2026

Summary
This column explains why the upcoming crewed lunar mission represents more than symbolic exploration. By examining mission design, launch constraints and spacecraft systems, it highlights how modern spaceflight builds on decades of engineering and scientific progress. The moon is framed as both a historical destination and a testing ground for future exploration.

Science themes:
human spaceflight, lunar exploration, spacecraft engineering, orbital mechanics, space science

Related listening:
NASA's Lucky Peanuts - Interview with JPL's Dr Morgan Cable

The Science Behind Lunar Permanently Shadowed Regions: Ice and Resources for Future Missions

Read the original column in the Freshet!

The Chemical Love Letters of Black Widow Spiders

Published: February 2026

Summary
This column explores how western black widow spiders communicate through chemical signals embedded in their silk. Research shows females alter pheromone composition seasonally, effectively turning their webs into time-sensitive mating messages. The piece highlights how chemical communication shapes animal behavior and how studying these systems informs ecology and non-toxic pest strategies.

Science themes:
chemical communication, pheromones, animal behavior, arachnid biology, ecology, research methods

Related listening:
Episodes exploring animal behavior and chemical signaling will be added as they become available.

Read the original column in the Freshet!