The theory of plate tectonics describes many geological phenomenon. However, to accurately predict the interactions at plate boundaries which could result in earthquakes requires a more refined model, which was discussed on this program with Prof. Jean-Phillipe Avouac.

The proliferation of spam e-mail peddling everything from home mortgages to male enhancement may cause one to wonder, Who writes this stuff? On this program, Brian McWilliams profiles some of these spam peddlers as portrayed in his book, Spam Kings.

Stem cell research promises to develop cures for a variety of ailments, but the current government restrictions on this research has forced investigators to improvise their methods. As a result, California voters have proposed a bond measure to fund this research.

With the growing scarcity of fossil fuels, alternative energy sources are actively being investigated. Currently, hydrogen based fuel systems have been heralded in the press as being the solution. But beyond the hype, the hydrogen economy faces critical challenges.

Each year over 100 million flu shots are administered, but the recent announcement that this year the supply will be cut in half will complicate matters. On this program, we examined the upcoming flu vaccine shortage.

Special coverage of the 2004 Nobel Prize Awards in Medicine or Physiology, Physics, and Chemistry.

Astronomers are interested in the fate of stars, but what happens to stars of the Holywood variety? On this program, Wil Wheaton talks about blogging, life after Star Trek, and his book, Just a Geek.

The neural mechanisms responsible for generating conscious states are slowly being revealed through scientific inquiry. On this program, Prof. Gerald Edelman joined us to discuss the scientific exploration of consciousness.

Although visible telescope have shed new light on celestial objects, radio astronomy has pushed the boundaries even farther. On this program, Prof. Jack Welch discussed radio astronomy and the search for extraterrestrial intelligence.

With currently diminishing energy resources, the search for alternative energy sources is of prime importance. But, often lost in the debate is the role of efficient energy use. Steve Nadel talks about energy efficiency in America.