How oceans support life; keeping space rovers unstuck; and the scourge of blue-green algae

Air Date:
Heard On The Larry Meiller Show
Mars perseverance Rover
This photo made available by NASA was taken during the first drive of the Perseverance rover on Mars on Thursday, March 4, 2021. AP Photo

Oceanography has much to tell us about the health of planet Earth – as well as far-flung exoplanets. Then, we learn why space rovers get stuck on Mars and the moon. Then, an up-to-date report on another summer of blue-green algal booms on Wisconsin waterways.

Featured in this Episode

  • The role of oceans on Earth and other planets

    How have Earth’s oceans played a role in the evolution of life, and how do they help regulate climate? And is this knowledge applicable to theoretically habitable exoplanets?  We’ll ask UW-Madison oceanographer Hannah Zanowski.

  • Keeping space rovers from getting stuck on other planets

    Robotic space rovers tend to get stuck on the surface of Mars, and UW researchers have discovered how to prevent that on future interplanetary missions. We talk to Dan Negrut, a professor of mechanical engineering at UW-Madison.

  • Summer in Wisconsin brings toxic blue-green algal blooms

    Toxic blue-green algal blooms have marred Wisconsin lakes and streams again this summer. We talk to the Wisconsin DNR’s Gina LaLiberte about what causes them and the health risks they pose to people and their pets.

    Wisconsin DNR: Report a Bloom

    Wisconsin Beach Closings and Advisories Map

Episode Credits

  • Larry Meiller Host
  • Hannah Zanowski Guest
  • Dan Negrut Guest
  • Gina LaLiberte Guest
  • Jill Nadeau Executive Producer
  • Joel Patenaude Producer
  • Jeff Robbins Technical Director