Earth Science Podcasts

Produced by the Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC), these naked Scientist podcasts look at Earth science questions in an accessible and informative way.

Antarctica
This podcast looks at how scientists in the South African National Antarctic Programme are studying the weather in space by monitoring the earth's magnetic field. It also describes what it is like to live in Antarctica and how the scientists have become in tune with their environment. Plus, news and developments form the world of science, including the Haitian earthquake from a geological perspective.

Earthquakes and ecosystems
This podcast discusses how monitoring the ground after earthquakes can help up prepare for future occurrences. Scientists in the Antarctic observe ecosystems to understand more about their biodiversity and how this can help to monitor climate change. Also in the podcast, how cancer cells can be detected using magnetism and can elephants run?

Volcanoes, aeroplanes and our environment
This podcast explores questions including:

• Why are some volcanic eruptions stronger than others?
• Why cannot aeroplanes fly around the ash in the sky?
• Is our ozone layer still a concern?
• Why will sea levels rise if the ice caps melt?
• How do boats sail into the wind?

Hole punch, clouds and making rain
This podcast looks at atmospheric science and how aeroplanes punch holes in cloud layers which can cause rain or snow to fall.

STFC is a part of the Research Councils UK (RCUK) partnership of research councils.