Intelligence Squared The Story of the Solar System, with Maggie Aderin-Pocock
Oct 20, 2024
Dame Maggie Aderin-Pocock, an award-winning space scientist and broadcaster, joins Güneş Taylor, a scientist at Edinburgh University, to discuss her new book, which beautifully blends art and science. They delve into the fascinating evolution of Pluto's classification and what that means for our understanding of celestial bodies. The conversation also explores humanity's cultural ties to the cosmos, the complexities of dark energy, and the intriguing effects of microgravity on living organisms, all while inspiring a new generation of space enthusiasts.
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Technology's Impact
- Technological advancements, from telescopes to space probes, revolutionized our understanding of the solar system.
- Gathering data from various sources allows for comprehensive insights into planets, moons, and other celestial objects.
Evolving Definitions
- Scientific understanding evolves with new data, leading to revised definitions, like Pluto's reclassification as a dwarf planet.
- This highlights the dynamic nature of knowledge and the potential for future discoveries.
Turtles in Space
- In 2010, turtles were sent to space to study the effects of microgravity on living organisms.
- This research helps understand how humans and animals might adapt to space travel.