What We Learned Today
40 episodes - English - Latest episode: about 3 years ago - ★★★★★ - 21 ratingsWe speak with Army scientists and engineers about the science and technology that will modernize the U.S. Army and make our Soldiers stronger and safer. Each episode introduces an engaging interview with lab researchers to explore a wide range of scientific disciplines and discuss technological advancements for the future Army.
Homepage Apple Podcasts Google Podcasts Overcast Castro Pocket Casts RSS feed
Episodes
What We Learned Today - xTech Success
June 30, 2021 12:04 - 20.9 MBA commercial company creating software applications and embedded systems for wireless communications, signal processing and machine learning is now working with the Army's national research laboratory. We talk with the CEO and an Army researcher about the partnership.
What We Learned Today: X Tech
June 02, 2021 20:53 - 49.2 MBThe Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Army for Acquisition, Logistics and Technology, also known as ASA(ALT), launched a nationwide competition to revolutionize the way the Army attracts and encourages innovation. It is called xTech! The competition has evolved into something much broader. Now in its fifth iteration, xTech has grown into something of an incubator for promising new defense and dual-use technologies. In this episode of we speak with Dr. Matt Willis, the U.S. Army’s ...
What We Learned Today - Interdisciplinary science combines ideas to make Army stronger
April 06, 2021 13:28 - 18.9 MBSenior Research Scientist Dr. Stephen Lee talks about Army investments in science and technology. To maintain global leadership in science and technology, the U.S. Army strives for excellence in a wide variety of disciplines in order to maintain a competitive advantage over its near-peer adversaries on all fronts.Learn more... https://www.army.mil/article/242582
What We Learned Today - How Neuroscience will help Future Soldiers
April 06, 2021 13:00 - 18.7 MBResearch in human cognition prepares Army for high-tech warfare. Listen to a senior Army scientist explain how computational neuroscience can enable Soldiers to tap into their brain’s full potential. Read more... https://www.army.mil/article/241902/
What We Learned Today - The Science Behind Human-Robot Teaming
April 05, 2021 15:07 - 7.81 MBScientists at the U.S. Army DEVCOM Army Research Laboratory at Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, are researching agent transparency to support Soldier-autonomy teaming. We talk with the Army's senior research scientist for Soldier Performance in Socio-Technical Systems, Dr. Yun-Sheng "Jessie" Chen about this advanced research. Read more at https://www.army.mil/article/240350/
What We Learned Today - Focus on the Physical Sciences
April 05, 2021 14:53 - 10 MBAtomic physics pushes Army quantum research to greater heights. Listen to a senior Army scientist explain how atomic physics helped galvanize the field of quantum information science. Read more https://www.army.mil/article/241003/
Interdisciplinary science combines ideas to make Army stronger
January 21, 2021 16:04 - 18.9 MBArmy Senior Research Scientist Dr. Stephen Lee looks to the edges of science to discover new ways to enhance future Soldier capabilities. Join us for What We Learned Today! Read more... https://www.army.mil/article/242582
Research in human cognition prepares Army for high-tech warfare
December 17, 2020 21:13 - 18.7 MBIn the future, smart technology will likely dominate the battlefield as Soldiers work alongside autonomous agents to complete their mission. In this episode, we talk with Dr. Piotr Franaszczuk, Army’s senior research scientist for Soldier performance neuroscience. Read more... https://www.army.mil/article/241902
Focus on the Physical Sciences
November 19, 2020 14:09 - 10 MBQuantum information represents one of the Army’s most promising science and technology investments for the future. Several technologies in this field, ranging from quantum computing, simulation, sensing, communication and networks show great potential, according to Army scientists. Join us for an in-depth discussion with the Army’s senior research scientist for the physical sciences and a researcher at the lab’s Army Research Office, Dr. Peter Reynolds. Read more on Army.mil.
The Science Behind Human-Robot Teaming
October 29, 2020 12:23 - 7.76 MBScientists at the U.S. Army DEVCOM Army Research Laboratory at Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland, are researching agent transparency to support Soldier-autonomy teaming. We talk with the Army's senior research scientist for Soldier Performance in Socio-Technical Systems, Dr. Yun-Sheng "Jessie" Chen about this advanced research. Read more on Army.mil.
Inside the Mind of the Army's Senior Mathematician
October 08, 2020 12:32 - 21.4 MBThe Army's senior research scientist for mathematics and physics sat down with us for a wide-ranging discussion about the history and future of science. Meet Dr. Bruce West, author of more than 350 scientific papers and 20 books. Read more... https://www.army.mil/article/239769
Electromagnetics for the Future Army
September 17, 2020 14:25 - 14.2 MBThe U.S. military has research programs to study electromagnetic wavelengths of all frequencies. Dr. Mark Govoni, from the U.S. Army CCDC Army Research Laboratory in Adelphi, Maryland, is the Army's senior research scientist for electromagnetics. Join us for a discussion about how electromagnetism offers a truly broad range of scientific and technological applications to support Soldiers at virtually every step of their mission. Read more: Radio frequency research enables Army dominance
Army embraces Cyber Resilience
August 20, 2020 13:47 - 16.8 MBWe talk to the U.S. Army's senior research scientist for Cyber Resilience. Dr. Alexander Kott is the Army lead researcher for this field, as well as the chief scientist for the U.S. Army CCDC Army Research Laboratory in Adelphi, Maryland. Find out how the Army is seeking new methods to protect and defend American Soldiers in cyberspace! Read this article for more information.
Army researchers pursue tactical edge in electronic warfare
July 09, 2020 12:48 - 31.2 MBIn the age of technology, the Army’s ability to dominate the electromagnetic spectrum can significantly influence the outcome of future conflicts on the battlefield. The U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command’s Army Research Laboratory designated several research programs as essential for future Soldier capabilities. Of these major flagship programs, the Foundational Research for Electronic Warfare in Multi-Domain Operations, or FREEDOM, Essential Research Program recognizes the v...
Essential Research in Artificial Intelligence for Maneuver and Mobility
June 25, 2020 10:42 - 29.9 MBThe U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command’s Army Research Laboratory has several research programs it deems essential for future Soldier capabilities. Of these major programs, the Artificial Intelligence for Maneuver and Mobility Essential Research Program endeavors to reduce Soldier distractions on the battlefield through the integration of autonomous systems in Army vehicles. In this episode of What We Learned Today, we talk with Dr. John Fossaceca, the program manager. Read m...
Essential Research in Human Autonomy Teaming
June 10, 2020 16:28 - 20.5 MBAmerican Soldiers will partner with technology to accomplish the mission on the battlefield of the future. The U.S. Army CCDC Army Research Laboratory has an essential research program to focus on Human-Autonomy Teaming. Join us for an in-depth discussion with Army researcher Dr. Amar Marathe about the future of artificial intelligence and machine learning and the quest to make America's Soldiers stronger and safer! Read more... https://www.army.mil/article/236301
Essential Research for Additive Manufacturing
February 25, 2020 13:46 - 12.2 MBAdditive manufacturing has the potential to provide Soldiers with cutting-edge munitions. Researchers at the U.S. Army CCDC's Army Research Laboratory are exploring the technology through a program designed to push the application of additive manufacturing to new boundaries. The lab's Tracie Dean speaks with Dr. Jason Robinette, program manager for the Science of Additive Manufacturing for Next Generation Munitions Essential Research Program in this episode of What We Learned Today!
Essential Research for Soldier Protection
February 11, 2020 13:04 - 18 MBWhen faced with battlefield threats, American Soldiers depend more than ever on body armor to protect them. To adapt to the evolving dangers of getting shot, the Army created a flagship program dedicated to protection technologies. The U.S. Army CCDC Army Research Laboratory has an essential research program to focus attention and resources on this important topic. Join the lab's Tracie Dean for an in-depth discussion with Army researcher Dr. Chris Hoppel about the future of materials engine...
Safer Batteries for Soldiers
November 07, 2019 17:41 - 10 MBArmy scientists and their partners at the University of Maryland and Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory have developed a high-energy aqueous lithium-ion battery that won’t catch fire no matter how damaged it becomes. These new batteries continue to operate in conditions where traditional batteries fail. Join ARL's Tracie Dean for a special edition of What We Learned Today with the lab's Dr. Arthur von Wald Cresce! Read more... https://www.army.mil/article/229601/
High-Speed Aerodynamics
October 25, 2019 13:30 - 33.3 MBCracking the code of how aerodynamics affect high-speed projectiles will enable the Army of the future to realize its number one Army Modernization priority: Long-Range Precision Fires. U.S. Army CCDC Army Research Laboratory Director Dr. Phil Perconti talks with aerospace engineer Dr. J.D. Vasile from the lab’s Weapons and Materials Research Directorate.
Neuroscience Research
October 11, 2019 18:22 - 12.7 MBNeuroscience and the Soldier: How will future troops sense, perceive and interact with the world of technology? U.S. Army CCDC Army Research Laboratory Director Dr. Phil Perconti talks with recently promoted Dr. Vernon Lawhern, a mathematical statistician from the lab's Human Research and Engineering Directorate.
Stronger, Lighter, Better Materials
September 17, 2019 19:28 - 30.4 MBWhat’s the next big thing? Imagine thinner, stronger and lighter metals, ceramics and plastics. How will that change the world? More importantly what will it mean for the U.S. Army of the future? Dr. Phil Perconti, director of the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command’s Army Research Laboratory, talks with up-and-coming materials engineer Dr. Victoria Blair.
How Quiet Can Researchers Make Future Drones?
September 10, 2019 19:23 - 21 MBArmy researchers are looking at how to make future unmanned aircraft systems stealthier. Current rotors are noisy. U.S. Army CCDC Army Research Laboratory aerospace engineer Dr. Matthew Floros is investigating a potential technology solution to decrease the sound of certain rotor blades by as much as 10 decibels. That's a lot quieter. Listen to the conversation about what we learned today! Read the academic paper by Dr. Floros: http://www.arl.army.mil/www/pages/shared/documents/quiet.pdf P...
Batteries for the Future
August 26, 2019 11:11 - 8.74 MBJoin us for a conversation with materials engineer Dr. Marshall Schroeder from the U.S. Army CCDC Army Research Laboratory about the future of batteries and the work he's doing to power technology for American Soldiers.
Learning from Failed Experiments
August 19, 2019 09:10 - 11.3 MBSometimes experiments don’t go as planned, but researchers end up learning from failure. In this week’s episode, U.S. Army CCDC Army Research Laboratory Director Dr. Phil Perconti talks with research chemist Dr. Jesse Sabatini about why a possible contender to replace TNT didn’t pass muster.
Stirling Engines for the Future
August 12, 2019 11:43 - 11.7 MBImagine a future where a vehicle would convert any form of heat into electricity for ground propulsion. What will that mean for the Army of tomorrow? Let’s find out as Dr. Phil Perconti, director of the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command’s Army Research Laboratory talks with computer scientist Justin Shumaker.
67 Years of Service
August 05, 2019 13:36 - 10.9 MBRobert B. Reams Jr., started his research career for the federal government in 1952. Sixty-seven years later, he will retire after a distinguished career with the U.S. Army CCDC Army Research Laboratory. Listen to the conversation as Director Dr. Phil Perconti has “Bob” tell his story and why his work was important for American Soldiers.
Pioneering Army researcher earns Presidential Early Career award
July 29, 2019 11:30 - 16.5 MBA pioneering Army researcher has earned the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers. Listen to U.S. Army CCDC Army Research Laboratory Director Dr. Phil Perconti interview Dr. Nathan Lazarus. Read more: Pioneering Army researcher earns Presidential Early Career award: https://www.army.mil/article/224221/ Recipients of the Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefings-statements/president-donald-j-trump-announces-r...
Augmented Reality
July 22, 2019 10:57 - 12.6 MBArmy researchers are looking at augmented reality from a psychological perspective. Listen to the conversation with U.S. Army CCDC Army Research Laboratory Director Dr. Phil Perconti and research psychologist Dr. Jennifer Cowley.
Keeping it Cool
July 15, 2019 11:23 - 13 MBWhen you touch an electronic device, you notice how much heat it gives off. In the military, keeping electrical components cool and functioning optimally is a goal for researchers. U.S. Army CCDC Army Research Laboratory Director Dr. Phil Perconti talks with thermal/packaging engineer Dr. Lauren Boteler about "keeping it cool!"
Power On Demand from Aluminum and Water
July 08, 2019 11:00 - 7.44 MBImagine a squad of future Soldiers on a long range patrol far from base with dead batteries and a desperate need to fire up their radio. One of the Soldiers reaches for a metal tablet and drops it into a container and adds water. Immediately the tablet starts to dissolve and hydrogen is released into a fuel cell. And just like that, the radio has power. This is not science fiction. This is something scientists at the U.S. Army CCDC Army Research Laboratory have figured out how to do. It’s a ...
Supercomputing and Sensors
July 01, 2019 12:02 - 7.81 MBImagine having a complete understanding of what's inside a building without having to step inside. That's the kind of thing that scientists and engineers at the U.S. Army CCDC Research Laboratory are working on using research into low-frequency imaging sensors and supercomputers. Listen to the conversation between lab director Dr. Phil Perconti and computer scientist Ross Adelman about the future of supercomputing and sensors!
Fueling the Army of the Future
June 24, 2019 10:58 - 11.5 MBArmy researchers are exploring the development of versatile fuels for the future. U.S. Army CCDC Army Research Laboratory Director Dr. Philip Perconti talks with mechanical engineer Dr. Constandinos Mitsingas. Will we someday have transportation that runs off anything -- like Mr. Fusion from Back to the Future?
Exploring Potential Navigation with Electromagnetic Fields
June 17, 2019 11:18 - 6.11 MBIn the future, Soldiers and autonomous vehicles will use tricorder-like sensors to measure electromagnetic fields. That might be valuable information for navigation in a GPS-denied environment. That's the kind of cutting edge research the Army is pursuing. U.S. Army CCDC Army Research Laboratory Director Dr. Philip Perconti talks with research physicist Dr. Kevin Claytor about this intriguing potential technology!
Robot Evolution and the Future Army
June 10, 2019 11:23 - 11.6 MBRobotics has the potential to move Soldiers out of harm's way. How will the future Army use robots to accomplish complex missions and ensure dominant strategic land power? CCDC Army Research Laboratory Director Dr. Phil Perconti talks with roboticist Phil Osteen about the current state of research.
Army Research Laboratory and Synthetic Biology
May 31, 2019 19:29 - 15 MBWill futuristic materials self-heal using synthetic biology? The American Army of the future will leverage science and technology advances to make its Soldiers stronger and safer. At the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command's Army Research Laboratory, ARL Director Dr. Phil Perconti discusses the challenges and applications of Army research into synthetic biology with ARL research chemist Dr. Meagan Small.
Army pushes for higher speeds in future tiltrotor aircraft
May 08, 2019 12:11 - 26.8 MBThe U.S. Army is developing a new wind-tunnel testbed that will help future tiltrotor aircraft attain higher speeds, improved stability and enhanced safety. We talk to the researchers on the project and learn about how the Army hopes to attain its goals!
Researchers make significant findings related to traumatic brain injury
March 27, 2019 13:30 - 19.3 MBA team from the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command’s Army Research Laboratory, the Illinois Institute of Technology and Argonne National Laboratory released a Traumatic brain injury study. ARL's Joyce Conant talks with TBI researcher Ashley Eidsmore. Read more!
Researchers 3-D print ultra-strong steel parts from powder
March 25, 2019 19:06 - 13.5 MBSoldiers needing replacement parts may turn to 3-D printers in the future to rapidly deliver reliable and ultra-strong metal parts. Army researchers are looking at new technologies to create steel alloy parts from powder using a laser. At the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command's Army Research Laboratory, materials manufacturing scientists say this technology may change everything. Read more... https://www.army.mil/article/217861
Martian meteorites land at Army lab
March 25, 2019 18:29 - 50 MBNASA officials say that some rare and distinct meteorites found on Earth were actually blasted off Mars by a large impact event. One such rock from the red planet made its way to an Army laboratory recently for a special X-ray look inside. Researchers from the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command’s Army Research Laboratory have powerful tools to look deep inside metal and rock using X-ray scanning technology.