Catalyst on ABC1

8:00pm – Thursday, July 22 on ABC1

Skating on the Edge Most young men go through it – a time of feeling immortal – when the thrill of an adrenaline rush leads to reckless behaviour. But, why would such behaviour evolve, when it’s potentially harmful – even lethal? Jonica Newby joins some thrill-seeking scientists on a mission to find out – and their research weapon of choice is a beautiful young scientist – bound to bring out the best (or worst) in any male.

Science Yacht Ships, planes, helicopters and snow tractors can take scientists to most parts of Antarctica’s harsh environment, but not all. One man, however, is designing a new kind of craft that will allow researchers to visit some of the most inhospitable places down there. He’s the captain of Australia’s icebreaker, the Aurora Australis, and Mark Horstman caught up with him earlier this year during a one-month voyage through the Southern Ocean. His yacht will enable scientists to continue to conduct their research while it is frozen into the ice for the winter.

Eureka Prizes People’s Choice Award Each year, the Australian Museum presents its Eureka Prizes to honour achievement in Australian science. One of the popular awards is the People’s Choice award in which the public can vote for scientists chosen by the Museum. Six of the nominated finalists are profiled in this episode of Catalyst.

Angry Frogs For the red-eyed tree frog, holding onto its territory is an important aspect of successful mating. If there’s one thing that makes it angry, it’s an interloper. And giving the tree a good shake is its way of making a stand.

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