Joe Palca is a science correspondent for NPR. Since joining NPR in 1992, Palca has covered a range of science topics — everything from biomedical research to astronomy. He is currently focused on the eponymous series, "Joe's Big Idea." Stories in the series explore the minds and motivations of scientists and inventors. Palca is also the founder of NPR Scicommers – A science communication collective.
Samples of Beethoven's hair reveal he may have suffered from lead poisoning, which could explain some of the difficult physical maladies the composer suffered in his life.
The first portrait painted of King Charles since his coronation has some critics seeing red. NPR's Danielle Kurtzleben discusses the controversy with art journalist Holly Black.