Title: BBC Inside Science

This week’s episode, available for eight days, opens with the recent directive from NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman, appointed by Donald Trump, urging the reinstatement of Pluto as a planet. First observed in 1930, Pluto holds the distinction of being the only celestial body whose discovery was claimed by the United States. However, its planetary status was officially revoked in 2006. In this installment, Tom Whipple converses with astronomer Chris Lintott to explore the ongoing controversy surrounding Pluto’s classification and the arguments for making it the solar system’s ninth planet.

The program also examines a significant scientific prize aimed at advancing our ability to communicate with animals. Professor Yossi Yovel of Tel Aviv University, serving as head judge, along with finalists Dr. Catherine Crockford from the CNRS Institute for Cognitive Sciences in Lyon and Professor Nicolas Mathevon from the University of Saint-Etienne, discuss the objectives of the Coller Dolittle Challenge.

Additionally, Penny Sarchet from New Scientist reports on lesser-known scientific stories from the week, including an investigation into the lack of research regarding the dating lives of individuals over 50.

Presenter: Tom Whipple Producer: Alex Mansfield Editor: Ilan Goodman Production Co-ordinator: Jana Bennett-Holesworth Programme Website

Source: BBC News Generated at: 2026-05-07 20:00:00 UTC