In the first of several shows we get an intro to artificial intelligence, a brief history of the field, and some examples of how AI affects our lives right now.

Also, a poem written by an AI, and a mysteriously dimming star.

In this episode we cover other ways we might travel the vastness of space using cryosleep, hibernation, and genetic manipulation with CRISPR.

Also, Carl Sagan's day job, artificial wombs.

This week we discuss various ideas, advantages, and challenges of generation ships, the most likely way humans will travel the interstellar vastness short of a breakthrough in warp drives or wormholes.

In the news: more octopi, graphene. Also, be better today than you were yesterday.

In this first of I don't know how many parts, we take a look at some of the proposed designs for large space stations, as well as some of the hazards of living in space long-term.

I also ruminate on the size of the universe

In the news: new brain maps and no love for a unifying theory of everything.

In this episode we dive in to some computer-chip-in-the-brain ideas, including one that has allowed a man to control his own paralyzed arm. How far can we go with this technology?

Also, construction bricks grown with microorganisms, and a quote from Commander Sinclair.

An overview of prosthetics of the past, and current work on bionics and exoskeletons. Advanced medical treatment now, will we chose to have them in the future?

Also, news of a tiny bio-robotic stingray, and will octopi take over the world?

In this episode we explore a performance of John Cage's As SLow aS Possible that will end in 2640. Also a piece by Jem Finer that will last for 1000 years.

News - The Netherlands nationwide internet of things and The antarctic ozone hole is healing.

In this episode we explore the basic ideas of the Singularity - learning machines, superintelligence, exponential technology advances, and the potential threat of self aware machines. We also talk about Ray Kurzweil. Not only a prominent futurist but also an inventor, first made familiar to your host by Kurzweil keyboards.

News of the moment - the first steps in building a solar system-wide internet

In this episode we continue exploring fiction of the past, what has come to be reality, and what might yet be in the future.

Also in the news, NASA's Juno mission

In this first of two episodes we delve into the roots of science fiction, explore what ancient stories say to us today, and wonder what fiction might become reality.