StarTalk Radio Our Burning Questions – Age of the Universe & More
Dec 29, 2023
Neil deGrasse Tyson answers burning questions about the age of the universe, the double slit experiment, and the nature of time. The measurement and expansion of the universe, communication in deep space, and quantum physics are also discussed.
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Age And Size Depend On Measurement Method
- The universe's age is measured precisely but two methods (supernovae and CMB) disagree, creating a real scientific tension.
- Observable universe radius (
46 billion ly) differs from light-travel horizon (13.8 billion years), so 'size' depends on the question.
Expansion Looks Irreversible Today
- Cosmological expansion appears to be a one-way trip under current data, with insufficient mass to re-collapse the universe.
- Our observational horizon grows at light speed, continually revealing earlier cosmic layers as time passes.
Build Autonomy Into Deep-Space Systems
- Design deep-space missions so vehicles and instruments operate autonomously because light-travel delays make real-time control impossible.
- Anticipate multi-minute to multi-hour round-trip delays and plan for on-board decision-making.