In this intriguing discussion, astrophysicist Saul Perlmutter and physicists Roger Penrose, Paul Steinhardt, Martin Rees, and Frank Drake delve into whether the cosmos truly holds inherent meaning. They explore the origins of the universe, the implications of the Big Bang, and what humanity's role might be within the vast cosmos. The conversation also touches on the cyclical nature of the universe and the philosophical questions raised by possible extraterrestrial contact, challenging our understanding of existence and purpose.

Join theoretical physicist and cosmologist Paul Steinhardt from Princeton University as he shares an extraordinary quest for a new type of matter that feels more like a detective novel than a science project. He recounts encounters with an array of colorful characters, including crafty Russians and a mysterious old lady in Amsterdam. Delve into the groundbreaking discovery of quasicrystals, their fascinating geometric arrangements, and the challenges of validating strange mineral specimens. Explore how these discoveries could revolutionize electronics and material science!