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Evolution has produced some weird and wonderful things - few more so than the naked mole-rat. They are formidable creatures, especially when it comes to holding their breath. Research reveals that they can survive for 18 minutes without oxygen thanks to a very unusual metabolic workaround.

Cassini scientists have been working hard on extending the Saturn-bound mission and have done so by nine years. However, this week, it is the beginning of the end as the probe begins its final orbit of the gas giant.

Back on Earth, the population has grown to almost 7.5 billion and it is going to keep on increasing. But just how far can it go before we run out of food?

Another problem facing our planet is antibiotic resistance. However, Liz Sockett has found a predatory bacterium that could help – it eats salmonella for breakfast and looks like a jelly bean.

We hear from one of the great voices in science, Neil deGrasse Tyson about how he became obsessed with the night sky. Plus, obsessive runners will be pleased to know that donning the trainers may extend their life. Finally, we hear from the digital activist who won the Index on Censorship Freedom of Expression Award.

(Photo caption: Naked mole-rats © Thomas Park/UIC/PA Wire)

The Science Hour was presented by Roland Pease with comments from David Robson of ³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ Future

Producer: Graihagh Jackson