StarTalk Radio

What's ice skating like on Titan? On this episode, Neil deGrasse Tyson and co-hosts Chuck Nice and Gary O’Reilly answer fan questions about the physics involved in the Winter Olympics with Charles Liu. NOTE: StarTalk+ Patrons can watch or listen to this entire episode commercial-free.Thanks to our Patrons Boris Maganic, Joshua Morgan, ymc98, Josh Wittlieff, Rick Carlson, Vaibhav Kumar, Orry B, Walt Miller, Krzysztof Nadolski, and chris for supporting us this week.Photo Credit: Sandro Halank, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of StarTalk Radio ad-free and a whole week early.Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What the funge is up with crypto? On this episode, Neil deGrasse Tyson and comic co-host Marcia Belsky talk about the science behind cryptocurrency, NFTs, bitcoin, and the blockchain with electrical engineer Dr. Sandra Johnson.NOTE: StarTalk+ Patrons can watch or listen to this entire episode commercial-free here: https://www.startalkradio.net/show/off-the-blockchain-with-dr-sandra-johnson/Thanks to our Patrons Thomas Cochran, Tony Wilson, Rachel Farrell, Casey Bailey, AIDAN BARNETT, Sahil Gupta, and Jennifer for supporting us this week.Photo Credit: Jorge Franganillo, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of StarTalk Radio ad-free and a whole week early.Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this engaging conversation, beloved actor William Shatner, famous for his role as Captain Kirk, shares his incredible experience as the oldest person to travel to space at 90. He reflects on the transformative power of seeing Earth from above and how Star Trek played a crucial role in shaping public interest in space. Shatner also discusses the moral implications of his genre and the fragility of human existence highlighted by space exploration. With humor and wisdom, he muses on the future of humanity and our ecological responsibilities.

Join Peter Veals, an atmospheric scientist and snowmaking expert, alongside Twila Moon, a glacial scientist, as they delve into the fascinating world of snow. They discuss the science behind snowflake formation and the intriguing concept of supercooling. The conversation touches on the environmental impact of artificial snow production in the face of climate change and the cultural significance of snow sports. Expect insights on glaciers, snow as a commodity, and the urgent need for sustainable practices to combat the effects of global warming.

Nicholas Christakis, a Yale professor and expert in sociology and medicine, dives into the fascinating interplay of social networks and disease spread. He discusses the historical context of pandemics, revealing how misinformation can ripple through communities. Christakis shares insights from his book 'Apollo's Arrow', reflecting on COVID-19's societal impact. The conversation explores innovative public health strategies, predicting a cultural resurgence post-pandemic, and emphasizes the need to combat misinformation with understanding.

Join bestselling author Patricia Cornwell, known for her crime novels featuring Kay Scarpetta, and forensic pathologist Jonathan Hayes as they delve into the gritty world of forensic science. They uncover the science of autopsies and the emotional toll of analyzing violent injuries. Their discussion spans the intersection of real crime and fictional storytelling, touching on the representation of forensics in media and even challenges in investigating crimes in space. Prepare for a humorous yet insightful peek into death's darker realities.

How do you extend your longevity? On this episode, Neil deGrasse Tyson and co-hosts Chuck Nice and Gary O’Reilly discuss epigenetics, tissue replacement, nanotech and how to be in your prime forever with surgeon Dr. Kevin Stone. NOTE: StarTalk+ Patrons can watch or listen to this entire episode commercial-free.Thanks to our Patrons Thomas MacKay, Kristina Norris, ichigo kurosaki, Courtney, Franklin Soto, Josiah Figueroa, and Donjohrae Marts for supporting us this week.Photo Credit: Welcome Collection, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of StarTalk Radio ad-free and a whole week early.Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What will first contact with aliens be like? On this episode, Neil deGrasse Tyson and comic co-host Chuck Nice say “Happy New Year!” by answering a grab bag of fan questions about aliens, string theory, moon landing skeptics, and more!NOTE: StarTalk+ Patrons can watch or listen to this entire episode commercial-free here: https://www.startalkradio.net/show/cosmic-queries-a-stellar-new-year/Thanks to our Patrons Mahina Knuckles, Robert Slosser, Brandon Herbst, Joshua DeNoyer, Chazz Gencarelli, christopher manley, Michelle Foster, Lunavyx, Kenneth Freeman, and Andrew Staupe for supporting us this week.Photo Credit: NASA, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Subscribe to SiriusXM Podcasts+ to listen to new episodes of StarTalk Radio ad-free and a whole week early.Start a free trial now on Apple Podcasts or by visiting siriusxm.com/podcastsplus. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Join Neil deGrasse Tyson and Chuck Nice as they delve into the intriguing concept of the Karman Line, the boundary between Earth and space. Learn how measurement tools shape our scientific understanding and explore how the spectrum of light impacts energy efficiency in modern lighting. The duo also breaks down the captivating physics behind airplane dynamics and banking turns, juxtaposing real science with Hollywood's portrayal of space. This insightful mix of astrophysics and humor will change the way you think about the universe!

In a captivating discussion, Nick Bostrom, a Professor at Oxford's Future of Humanity Institute, tackles the tantalizing question: Are we living in a simulation? He explores the implications of this theory on consciousness, free will, and existence, engaging in a thought-provoking dialogue about the future of advanced civilizations creating virtual realities. Bostrom dissects the philosophical challenges and ethical dilemmas related to simulation, all while questioning the nature of our reality and the possibility of superintelligent AI reshaping our understanding of life itself.