The regular Short Wave science roundup covers mysterious red dots in space, the neurons behind optical illusions and a study of octopus arms.

Hosts of NPR's science podcast discuss new findings about long-distance fly migration, an unexpected impact of emissions in the Amazon, and fish noises.

Earth Science Week 2025, an annual worldwide celebration of the geosciences led by the American Geosciences Institute (AGI), is underway from October 12–18, 2025, with the theme “Energy Resources for ...