StarTalk Radio

Astrophysicist Charles Liu, a professor at CUNY Staten Island and host of The Luniverse, joins Neil deGrasse Tyson and co-hosts to explore the unpredictability of the future. They humorously compare sci-fi visions of 2050 with today's advancements, highlighting the contributions of young scientists. The discussion critiques dystopian portrayals in films like 'Blade Runner' and traces technological shifts from 1995 to 2025, urging a reevaluation of cultural influences on progress. Moreover, they tackle the future of space and transportation, including space tourism and climate change implications.

Hakeem Oluseyi, an accomplished astrophysicist and CEO of the Astronomical Society of the Pacific, dives into cosmic questions with infectious enthusiasm. He discusses the intriguing concept of 'Hubble tension' and the latest from the James Webb Space Telescope. Oluseyi unpacks dark matter's mysteries and its impact on physics, while letting slip insights into Dyson spheres and their potential in harnessing stellar energy. Expect a blend of humor and deep scientific inquiry, making complex ideas accessible and engaging!

Fatima Ebrahimi, a physicist at Princeton Plasma Physics Lab, dives into the world of fusion energy. She shares insights on the importance of plasma and the extreme conditions needed for fusion to work. The discussion highlights the intriguing possibilities of using fusion for space travel and the innovative plasma propulsion technologies that could revolutionize transportation beyond Earth. They also tackle the challenges of scaling fusion technology and the humorous side of scientific exploration, making complex concepts accessible and entertaining.

Kathryn Huff, an Associate Professor at the University of Illinois and former Assistant Secretary for Nuclear Energy, discusses the urgent energy challenges posed by AI and data centers. The conversation humorously tackles nuclear waste, as well as the safety and public perception of nuclear energy compared to fossil fuels. They explore small modular reactors' potential to meet rising power demands and innovations like advanced reactor technologies. Kathryn also highlights the importance of recycling nuclear fuel and the connection between sustainable energy and tech revolutions.

Malcolm Gladwell, best-selling author known for dissecting human behavior, joins Neil deGrasse Tyson and Chuck Nice for a thought-provoking conversation. They delve into how small actions can lead to impactful societal changes. The trio connects tipping points to epidemics and crime rates, shedding light on the COVID-19 pandemic and urban policing. They also explore innovative ideas in epidemiology, like using dogs for virus detection. Lively discussions even touch on the cultural implications of beloved Disney characters!

Astrophysicist Janna Levin, a professor at Barnard College, dives into the cosmic depths alongside Neil deGrasse Tyson and comedian Matt Kirshen. They tackle mind-bending questions about black holes and the nature of time. Can you 'surf' gravitational waves? Is time merely a human construct? With humorous insights, they discuss the perplexing interplay of energy and matter. Janna also debunks myths about black holes and shares the emotional journey of studying these cosmic giants, all while keeping it light and accessible.

Astrophysicist Tim Paglione, a professor at the City University of New York, dives into the explosive universe of high-energy cosmic phenomena. He discusses how gamma rays reveal secrets about supernovae and galaxy formation, illuminating the nature of cosmic cataclysms. The conversation touches on the role of molecular clouds in star formation, the impact of Hubble’s discoveries, and the importance of advanced technologies like gamma-ray telescopes. Paglione's passion for mentoring future scientists shines through as he connects complex cosmic concepts to relatable analogies.

Teller, one-half of the iconic magic duo Penn & Teller, discusses the fascinating intersection of magic and neuroscience with Susana Martinez-Conde, a renowned neuroscientist at SUNY Downstate Medical Center. They explore how magicians expertly exploit human perception and the brain's limitations to create mind-bending illusions. Highlights include the role of misdirection, the psychology behind survival instincts, and how our perception of truth can be manipulated. This compelling conversation reveals how magic not only entertains but also challenges our understanding of reality.

Astrophysicist Charles Liu joins Neil deGrasse Tyson and Paul Mecurio to tackle cosmic mysteries. They dive into whether slowing time can increase mass and discuss the nature of particles during the Big Bang. Liu humorously explores how cosmic inflation parallels economic inflation, and they highlight the significance of stellar generations in understanding our universe. The trio also debates scientific truths, combining serious science with relatable anecdotes, making the cosmos both enlightening and entertaining.

Brian Cox, a renowned physicist and science communicator, dives into the universe's mysteries alongside Neil deGrasse Tyson. They dissect the groundbreaking discoveries at CERN, particularly focusing on the Higgs boson and the fundamental forces that shape our reality. The conversation weaves through the synergy of science and music, exploring Cox's global tours aimed at fostering public engagement. They also contemplate life's potential beyond Earth, emphasizing recent advancements in space exploration, particularly regarding Jupiter's moon, Europa.