In 'Space Oddities', Harry Cliff delves into the strange and unexplained phenomena in the cosmos that defy our current understanding of the universe. The book covers anomalies such as particles with extraordinary energies bursting from beneath the Antarctic ice, unknown forces affecting the basic building blocks of matter, and stars moving at inexplicable speeds. Cliff takes readers on a global journey, from the Atacama Desert to the South Pole, meeting scientists who are dedicated to solving these puzzles. With clarity, humor, and a sense of wonder, Cliff investigates whether these anomalies are mere data tricks or hints at vast, hidden worlds, offering a fresh and engaging perspective on the evolving fields of physics and cosmology.
Published in 1949, '1984' is a cautionary tale by George Orwell that explores the dangers of totalitarianism. The novel is set in a dystopian future where the world is divided into three super-states, with the protagonist Winston Smith living in Oceania, ruled by the mysterious and omnipotent leader Big Brother. Winston works at the Ministry of Truth, where he rewrites historical records to conform to the Party's ever-changing narrative. He begins an illicit love affair with Julia and starts to rebel against the Party, but they are eventually caught and subjected to brutal torture and indoctrination. The novel highlights themes of government surveillance, manipulation of language and history, and the suppression of individual freedom and independent thought.
For this episode, particle physicist Harry Cliff takes us on a deep dive into some of the universe's most perplexing scientific mysteries. His recent book, Space Oddities, draws on many findings found during his work at the University of Cambridge. Why are stars flying away from us faster than anyone can explain? What are the source of mysterious particles found to hold huge amounts of energy trapped beneath Antarctic ice? What really goes on at the CERN Large Hadron Collider? – another place where Cliff does much of his work. Joining him in conversation for this episode is Alex Wilkins, reporter for New Scientist.
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