Inside Science: Mega Earthquake Warnings, Lionesses Data, Scrumping Primate Booze and Tech Demos

The July 31, 2025 episode of BBC Inside Science connects seismic science with sports data and technology. Seismologist Stephen Hicks explains why the recent magnitude 8.8 quake near Kamchatka generated a smaller Pacific tsunami and how warning systems saved lives, while sports data expert Steve Hake discusses how data is shaping football strategy for the Lionesses. Primate behavior researcher Kat Ho Beta introduces scrumping as a term for primates feeding on windfallen fruit and a new angle on alcohol metabolism, and Gareth Mitchell covers space news, VR innovations, and aviation maintenance news. The show blends science with everyday life, from windfalls to world-class sport to space technology.

Seismic Mega-Quake and Warning Systems

In the opening science segment, broadcaster Marnie Chesterton and seismologist Stephen Hicks of University College London explain the recent offshore magnitude 8.8 earthquake near the Kamchatka Peninsula. Hicks notes that while the quake ranks among the largest recorded since 1900, its tsunami impact was mitigated by factors including rupture depth and whether the sea floor was displaced vertically. He describes the current global network of seismometers, seafloor sensors, tide gauges and satellite communications that generate near-immediate tsunami forecasts. These forecasts come with uncertainties, but the system’s speed and refined modeling have markedly improved early warnings and evocation of evacuations. He also notes the quake would not have been felt by humans in the UK, though ground vibrations were detectable globally for days, underscoring the planet-wide reach of such events.

“These forecasts are amazing now, and given that these initial forecasts come out within minutes of the earthquake happening, it's fantastic that we have these.” - Stephen Hicks

Sports Data Analytics and AI in Football

Next, the discussion shifts to the summer of sport and the role of data in football. Sheffield Hallam University professor Steve Hake explains how match analysis has evolved from grainy video to pre-tagged footage and advanced analytics. The performance team uses video tags to assess crosses, passes and shots, and considers how subs like Chloe Kelly alter dynamics. The central question is not just raw numbers but turning data into knowledge that can inform coaching decisions under pressure. While AI could provide rapid scenario planning, coaches like Serena Wiegman may still rely on human judgment and contextual insight, using data to support, not replace, decision-making. Hicks and Hake also touch on how data from other sports—rowing, cycling, Formula One—demonstrates different levels of instrumentation and feedback.

“What was the story of the match.” - Steve Hake

Scrumping, Booze and Primates: A New Language for Evolution

The program then visits primatology and evolution with Kat Ho Beta, who introduces scrumping as a term for windfallen fruit consumption—fruit that has fallen to the ground and may ferment, producing slight alcohol exposure. She explains that African apes metabolize ethanol far more efficiently than other primates, suggesting that alcohol processing provided evolutionary advantages. A key point is that language shaped science: without a concise term to describe ground, fermented fruit feeding, researchers may have overlooked this behavior. The team adopts scrumping as a memorable descriptor, enabling cross-study collaboration and data sharing across primatologists. A quote anchors the segment: “The history of ideas is paved by constraints of language.” - Kat Ho Beta.

Tech Demos, Exoplanets and Airbus Maintenance

Gareth Mitchell closes with a technology round-up. The James Webb Space Telescope reanalysis of the exoplanet K218B cools expectations about biosignature molecules, suggesting any life indicators there may be more elusive than initially thought. In mixed reality, Stanford researchers are developing lighter, glasses-style holographic headsets using laser waveguides and machine learning to improve visual fidelity, a step toward practical consumer AR/MR devices. Finally, the Airbus A380 is discussed as a case study in airworthiness: despite ongoing maintenance directives, regulators and engineers work proactively to prevent larger faults, illustrating how aviation safety is a living, iterative system. Mitchell also taps into touches of pop science, including a light-hearted nod to Tom Lehrer and a call for listener participation to add new verses to the classic Elements song.

“any hint of molecules associated with life may be a little premature.” - Gareth Mitchell