Konstantin Batygin

In this engaging conversation, Konstantin Batygin, a Professor at Caltech and expert in planetary astrophysics, dives into the hunt for the elusive Planet 9. He discusses the strange gravitational forces affecting objects beyond Neptune and why proving Planet 9’s existence is so challenging. The discussion includes captivating insights into Jupiter’s magnetic field and its influence on the solar system. Batygin also shares the importance of new observational technology in this cosmic quest, offering a glimpse into the future of astronomical discovery.

Join Leah and Chelsea as they belatedly mourn the loss of Pluto as a planet. Guests Kathryn Volk and Konstantin Batygin discuss various approaches to boosting Pluto's status, including increasing its mass and dragging it into the inner solar system. They also explore reimagining Pluto's planetary status by dropping a black hole inside it or physically moving it. The podcast also touches on the stability of Pluto and the potential consequences of a close gravitational encounter with Neptune.

In this engaging discussion, Konstantin Batygin, a planetary astrophysicist at Caltech, dives into the search for Planet Nine and the mysteries of our solar system. He unravels the intriguing dynamics of the Kuiper Belt and Oort Cloud, and speculates about the existence of alien civilizations based on their waste. Batygin also reflects on humanity's future in cosmic exploration and the philosophical implications of space commercialization. With humor and insight, he emphasizes the complexity of celestial interactions and our place in the universe.