ReThinking Life, the universe, and everything with Nobel laureate physicist Saul Perlmutter
Oct 18, 2022
Saul Perlmutter, a Nobel Prize-winning astrophysicist famous for uncovering the universe's accelerating expansion, discusses the evolution of scientific knowledge and the emotional aspects of discovery. He shares insights about the importance of humility and confidence in tackling global challenges. The conversation delves into misconceptions about cosmic expansion, the significance of critical thinking, and how scientific methods can enhance decision-making in various fields. Ultimately, they explore questions about the universe's fate and humanity's role in understanding it.
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Supernova Search
- Saul Perlmutter's team needed 30 supernovae to measure the universe's expansion.
- After five years, they found one; nine years later, they had 42, ultimately discovering the universe's accelerating expansion.
Science and Emotion
- Scientific discovery involves an interplay of emotions and rational thought.
- Initial excitement fuels the project, followed by frustration and the need for perseverance.
Universe Expansion
- The universe's expansion doesn't mean it's expanding into something else.
- It means space between objects is increasing, like puffing extra space between galaxies.