A Galaxy Far, Far Away — Right There On The Ceiling
Our Tools of the Trade series examines the planetarium: a relic of the Space Age that's still found in more than 700 schools around the country.
National
SeaWorld To Change Its Criticized Orca Show After Next Year
The company's market value has plunged after complaints about its treatment of killer whales. The CEO says in 2017 SeaWorld in San Diego will switch to an "informative" show in a more natural setting.
NPR Rescued A Chicken That Tried To Cross The Road...
And that led us to interview a chicken expert who shared some exciting news about chickens in the developing world.
Volkswagen Offers Cash, Vouchers To Defrauded Diesel Owners
The German automaker is starting the process of making amends with its U.S. customer base. The company is offering $1,000 in cash and vouchers to owners of diesel vehicles implicated in the emissions scandal.
Boston Clergy Sex Abuse Under 'Spotlight' Anew
Boston Globe reporter Sacha Pfeiffer was part of the investigative team that uncovered the massive scandal involving sexual abuse by Catholic priests. She speaks with NPR's Audie Cornish about their story, which is now told in the feature film Spotlight.
It's Never Too Soon To Plan Your 'Driving Retirement'
Families should rethink how seniors give up driving, researchers say. Figuring out transportation alternatives long ahead of time can help preserve independence and avoid painful confrontations.
Coal Offers Hope For Montana Tribe
The Crow Tribe doesn't have adequate housing, jobs or educational opportunities. But it does have 9 billion tons of coal. Tribal leaders want to use it to better the community. But others worry about climate change and wonder if a proposed coal mine will pay off in the long run.
University Of Illinois Fires Its Athletic Director
After months of scandals and reviews that resulted in the firing of the football coach and several lawsuits, the school has dismissed athletic director Mike Thomas.
More Universities Move To Include Gender-Neutral Pronouns
More colleges are expanding gender options for transgender and non-binary students. One leader in LGBTQ student life at Harvard discusses the update to the college's applications.
With 'Pickup Scooter,' America Meets Indian Carmaker
Facing competition at home, Indian manufacturing company Mahindra recently introduced to the U.S. the GenZe, a scooter with cargo space designed to appeal to young Americans in cities.