The Call-In: The Solar Eclipse
This week, on The Call-In, we answer all your questions about the upcoming solar eclipse — how to protect your eyes, and what to do if the day is cloudy.
Science
Researchers: Hackers Could Encode Human DNA With Malicious Software
University of Washington researchers say malware could be encoded into DNA strands. NPR's Scott Simon speaks to researcher Karl Koscher about the findings and what they mean for gene sequencing.
40 Years Ago, NASA Launched Message To Aliens Into Deep Space
Forty years ago, NASA launched two Voyager spacecraft into deep space. Onboard both were gold discs with music, greetings and sounds from Earth — a message to aliens. Ann Druyan, the creative director of the project, talks about how they decided what message to put in the interstellar bottle.
Success In Placing Shelter Dogs Takes More Than Temperament Tests
Blogger Alva Noë talks with a dog trainer who says the need to give shelters, handlers and adopters the resources required to keep dogs and people supported and safe is critical in the process.
Nearly 1 In 5 Hospice Patients Discharged While Still Alive
The hospices that discharge the most patients before their death also make the most money, a recent study shows.
Tyler DeWitt: How Do We Get Kids Hooked On Science?
When a student complained that science textbooks were boring, teacher Tyler DeWitt got thinking about how he can make his lessons fun. DeWitt recounts his quest to make kids care about science.
People Back Editing Genes To Treat Disease, But Are Wary Of Inheritable Changes
Scientists are getting closer to being able to alter people's genes permanently. A survey found that people are more cautious about changes that could be passed on to future generations.
2016 Hit Records For Global Temperature And Climate Extremes
An annual report, comprising data from scientists across the globe, shows it was the warmest on records that date back 137 years. It also saw the highest sea levels and lowest polar sea ice.
Widowed Early, A Cancer Doctor Writes About The Harm Of Medical Debt
A decade after the death of her husband, Fumiko Chino is studying the strain that uncovered medical costs put on cancer patients, even those who have insurance.
As Eclipse Madness Sweeps U.S., A Stonehenge Made Of Cars Prepares
Carhenge in Alliance, Neb., will be prime viewing for this month's total solar eclipse. The town is preparing for thousands of visitors.