Science Friday

Curiosity drives much of our learning and creativity. Where do we get it from, and how does it change our brains? Plus, the NASA Eclipse Ballooning Project hopes to livestream the solar eclipse from weather balloons across the country. And scientists still do not know when or why the moon lost its magnetic field, but it was at least a billion years later than they thought.

Fingerprint scanners are standard on new smartphones, and new ID methods are on the way. But security researchers say biometrics are still too easily duped. Plus, how humans and other animals have evolved to beat the heat.

Just three weeks remain before the total solar eclipse. Are you ready?

Researchers can fix genetic mutations in human embryos. But should they? Plus, physicists were able to take the first measurement of a neutrino interacting with the nucleus of an atom. And a look at what security is in place to protect voter registration databases and voting machines.

What will it take to bring true equality to research labs? And Alan Alda discusses how he teaches scientists using theater improvisation and other empathy-building exercises.

Scientists are developing tools that allow you to digitally feel textures like wood and cotton. Plus, a walks through Martin Gardner’s 1950s catalog of pseudoscientific ideas. And, a lesson in the physics of this summer’s blockbuster superhero stunts.