MIT News Podcast: Media Lab’s ”New Beginnings,” Cambridge Science Festival, Museum Updates & Fall Campus Events

Good afternoon, MIT community! It's Monday, August 18, 2025, and you're tuned in to the latest episode of our campus news podcast. Let's dive into the current events and updates from around the Institute. First up, let's talk about the weather. Today in Cambridge, we're enjoying mostly sunny skies with temperatures hovering around 64 degrees Fahrenheit. It's a perfect day to take a stroll along the Charles River or enjoy some outdoor activities on campus. In campus news, the MIT Media Lab is gearing up for its Fall Member Event titled "New Beginnings," scheduled for October 2025. This two-day event will showcase the Lab's commitment to innovative ideas and transformational projects. Attendees can look forward to presentations from new faculty, updates on ongoing research, and demonstrations of cutting-edge prototypes. This event marks the beginning of the Media Lab's 40th Anniversary celebrations, culminating in October 2026. For more details, visit the Media Lab's official website. Looking ahead, the Cambridge Science Festival is set to take place from September 28 to October 4, 2025. Organized by the MIT Museum, this annual event offers a week-long celebration of science, technology, engineering, and math. With a variety of workshops, lectures, and interactive exhibits, the festival aims to engage the public in the wonders of scientific discovery. Keep an eye on the MIT Museum's website for the full schedule and registration details. In other news, the MIT Museum has recently relocated to a new site, enhancing its ability to showcase a vast collection of holography, robotics, and the history of MIT. The museum continues to offer a range of exhibitions that intersect art and technology, providing visitors with a unique experience. If you haven't visited the new location yet, it's a must-see. On the academic front, MIT has released a detailed report on the energy footprint of generative AI. This comprehensive study examines the environmental impact of AI technologies and explores strategies for sustainable development in this rapidly evolving field. The report is available on MIT's official website for those interested in delving deeper into the findings. As we approach the start of the fall semester, various student organizations are preparing for their annual events. The Burton-Conner House's "Dance Till You Drop" party, a long-standing tradition since 1969, is expected to be announced soon. This event is open to the entire campus and is known for its lively atmosphere and live music. Stay tuned for official announcements regarding the date and time. That's all for today's episode. Stay connected with us for more updates on campus events and news. Enjoy the rest of your day, and we'll catch you next time!