Why We Need Zip Lines On The Moon

Why We Need Zip Lines On The Moon

From The Rest Is Science by Goalhanger

April 1, 2026 · 57 min · Season 1 · Episode 39

About this episode

Hannah and Michael explore the physics of zip lines on the Moon and the biomechanics of touch on Earth.

Why would a zip line be the best form of transport on the Moon? Why exactly can your feet still feel other textures right through your socks? Hannah and Michael tackle the spectacular physics of extreme commutes and everyday biomechanics. They unpick the orbital chaos and terrifying vacuum of space, proving why a lunar theme park ride is essentially a brilliant, fiery death trap. Back down on Earth, they dive into the hypersensitive neurology of touch, revealing how your brain decodes microscopic vibrations through layers of cotton to perfectly map the floor beneath you. To top it all off, Hannah shares her very old school, steam punk esq, mechanical calculator. ------------------- For more information about Cancer Research UK, their research, breakthroughs and how you can support them, visit ⁠⁠https://cancerresearchuk.org/restisscience⁠⁠ Cancer Research UK is a registered charity in England and Wales (1089464), Scotland (SC041666), the Isle of Man (1103) and Jersey (247). A company limited by guarantee. Registered company in England and Wales (4325234) and the Isle of Man (5713F). Registered address: 2 Redman Place, London, E20 1JQ. ------------------- Find The Rest Is Science…

People in this episode

Hosts: Hannah, Michael

Topics covered

  • zip lines
  • Moon transport
  • physics
  • biomechanics
  • neurology of touch
  • space exploration
  • lunar theme park

Keywords

  • zip line
  • Moon
  • transport
  • biomechanics
  • neurology
  • touch
  • space
  • physics
  • theme park

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Cancer Research UK

Places: Moon, Earth, England, Wales, Scotland, Isle of Man, Jersey

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