On this episode, the Supermassive Podcast explores the concept of the Multiverse with Andrew Pontzen, Katie Mack, and listener Wendy Entwistle. They discuss the definition, history, and theories of the Multiverse, including the possibility of black holes as gateways to other universes. The podcast also dives into the portrayal of the Multiverse in science fiction films and the popular show Rick and Morty. They even touch on the mind-bending idea of living in a simulation.
Different universes within the multiverse could have different laws of physics, potentially influencing the formation and existence of stars, planets, and life.
Speculations about the multiverse emerge from mathematical and theoretical frameworks, rather than observational data, highlighting the need for caution in both dismissing and accepting these ideas.
Deep dives
The Multiverse
The podcast episode explores the concept of the multiverse, which suggests the existence of multiple universes beyond our own. The multiverse can be understood through various theories, such as the many worlds model, eternal inflation, and simulated universes. Each theory presents different ideas about the nature and structure of the multiverse.
Different Laws of Physics
One theory suggests that different universes within the multiverse could have different laws of physics. This idea stems from the concept of bubble universes in which inflation creates separate pockets of space with unique physical properties. While this hypothesis remains speculative, it raises the possibility of universes with distinct physics, potentially influencing the formation and existence of stars, planets, and life.
Evidence and Uncertainty
Currently, there is no direct evidence for the existence of the multiverse. Speculations about the multiverse emerge from mathematical and theoretical frameworks, rather than observational data. Scientists and philosophers carefully navigate discussions about the multiverse, recognizing the need for caution in both dismissing and accepting these ideas. Further exploration of the multiverse may require advances in technology and our understanding of the laws of physics.
Stargazing and Cosmic Events
In terms of stargazing, Jupiter and Venus are prominent evening celestial objects. Jupiter can be observed with a small telescope, revealing its distinct weather systems and moons. The winter constellations, such as Orion and Gemini, feature bright stars and clusters, providing opportunities for observation with binoculars or a small telescope. Looking ahead, 2024 may bring a total solar eclipse in certain regions, while a potentially bright naked-eye comet called Su Chin Shan Atlas could become visible in October.
Izzie Clarke and Dr Becky Smethurst are rounding off 2023 with a biggie. Arguably the biggest of them all. This episode is ALL about the Multiverse. What is it? What does it mean? Does it even exist?
A big thank you to Andrew Pontzen from UCL and author of "Universe in a Box" for explaining the basics, Katie Mack from The Perimeter Institute for going from physicist to film reviewer, and to listener Wendy Entwistle who suggested the Supermassive team cover this topic.
The Supermassive Podcast is a Boffin Media production for the Royal Astronomical Society. The producers are Izzie Clarke and Richard Hollingham.
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode