Light entertainment
Summary
Host Alex Lathbridge and guests Sandy Ng and Michael Koloki explore the science of blocking sunlight, from trees communicating during eclipses to proposed space bubble shields. They discuss how sunscreen chemicals harm marine ecosystems and how Japanese researchers are growing rice on moon-like soil using air-derived fertilizer. The episode also covers astronaut blood pressure changes in microgravity and the ecological threat of invasive crows in Nairobi.
Topics discussed
Intro and Kia advertisement
Welcome to Unexpected Elements
Solar eclipse and animal behavior
Trees anticipating eclipses via electrical signals
Criticism of the tree communication study
Indigenous weather forecasting traditions
Space bubble raft solar shield proposal
Geoengineering and climate change mitigation
Sun exposure and appetite hormones
Sunscreen ingredients and ocean pollution
Impact of UV filters on marine life
Reef-safe sunscreen advice and regulations
Episode recap and Kia ad
Growing rice on the moon using lunar soil
Lunar agriculture and fertilizer from air
Listener story: Alice in Wonderland syndrome
Indian house crows in Nairobi and Tanzania
Men eat more in summer due to ghrelin
Medication effects and heart rate in space
Replicating nature's calm in space
Playing phone audio loudly in public
Cultural norms and closing credits
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