StarTalk Radio Cosmic Queries – Galaxies Galore
Dec 5, 2023
The podcast explores topics such as galaxy formation, measuring distances of far away objects, dark matter, primordial galaxies, and the impact of James Webb Space Telescope on our understanding of the universe.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Cosmic Distance Ladder Explained
- Astronomers determine distances using the cosmic distance ladder involving progressively complex methods.
- Triangulation using Earth's orbit to measure parallax is key for nearby stars' distances.
Parallax Vision Demonstrated
- Neil deGrasse Tyson demonstrates parallax vision by comparing two eyes to Earth's orbit for measuring star distances.
- He humorously illustrates how one eye misses the alignment and how the Earth's orbit acts as a giant baseline for triangulation.
Variable Stars Reveal Galaxies
- Measuring variable stars' pulsation allows distance calculation using intrinsic luminosity.
- This led to recognition of galaxies beyond the Milky Way, revolutionizing our understanding of the universe.