This is a re-airing of a podcast originally released in March 2021.

From beetle explosions to the deep dark depths of the ocean, this episode is all about escape.

The team discusses the amazing (and sometimes disgusting) way bombardier beetles escape predators.

They explain what it takes for an object to reach escape velocity, celebrating the mathematical mind of Katherine Johnson while they’re at it.

And they explore the daunting realms of free-diving, and the lengths people will go to for a bit of peace and quiet.

On the pod are Rowan Hooper, Anna Demming and Timothy Revell.

Find out more at newscientist.com/podcasts

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices