OCW
A cosmologist's guide to the end of the universe
How does studying the end of time change your perspective of life on Earth? Cosmologist and TED Fellow Katie Mack joins designer and podcaster Debbie Millman to talk about the story of the cosmos — from the Big Bang's ancient light still glowing across the universe to the five ways it might a..
TED
The gigantic forests you won’t find on land
Like any other plant, kelps require light to grow. Yet kelps found nearly 90 meters below the ocean's surface, where sometimes only 0.1% of sunlight can reach, grow as large as, and often even larger than, their shallow counterparts. So how have these large, light-dependent organisms adapted to..
TED
Why depression isn't what you think
The idea that depression comes from a chemical imbalance in the brain has shaped treatment for decades. Neuroscientist Lisa Monteggia shares research suggesting that's not the whole story — and shows how a decades-old drug could upend what we thought we knew about depression, with the potenti..
TED
How does the space station never run out of oxygen?
For over 25 years, the International Space Station’s air supply systems have revolutionized space missions. Yet the need for regular maintenance, repairs, and upgrades has pushed engineers to develop even more reliable systems for future spacecraft. How do we create breathable air in space? And wh..
TED
Psychedelics, mind control, radiation-eating: The secret superpowers of fungi
The diverse fungal kingdom, which includes everything from baker’s yeast to edible mushrooms to foot infections, has long defied assumptions. Scientists estimate that somewhere between 2 and 12 million species of fungi remain undiscovered— either because they’re microscopic, live hidden within..
TED
How play boosts your creativity and resilience
When was the last time you just ... played? Creative health scientist Katina Bajaj thinks adults are in a
TED