StarTalk Radio

Neil deGrasse Tyson tackles fascinating questions about immortality and the nature of the universe. The discussion delves into the implications of altering physical constants like gravity and how such changes could reshape existence. They explore the merging of humanity with technology and the role of conflict in driving innovation. The idea of advanced alien civilizations existing as digital entities sparks a playful examination of communication through mathematics. It’s a blend of cosmic inquiry and human curiosity that keeps you pondering!

Join Brian Greene, a renowned physicist and author from Columbia University, as he explores the intriguing world of time travel. He humorously analyzes whether Ebenezer Scrooge experienced a wormhole. The conversation dives into the relationship between motion, gravity, and time, revealing time's subjective nature. The philosophical dilemmas of free will versus predestination also take center stage, alongside entertaining critiques of Hollywood’s time travel portrayals. Prepare for fascinating insights into black holes, multiverse theory, and the nature of existence!

Janna Levin chats with Rainer Weiss, a pioneering physicist and MIT professor who helped develop the LIGO detector, alongside comedian Matt Kirshen. They delve into the fascinating world of gravitational waves, exploring their significance and relation to black holes. Rainer shares personal anecdotes about teaching relativity and the early skepticism faced in securing funding for LIGO. The conversation demystifies complex scientific concepts, linking Einstein's revolutionary ideas to our understanding of the universe, and highlights the challenges in detecting these cosmic ripples.

David Spergel, an astrophysicist and chair of NASA's UAP Independent Study Team, joins the discussion on unexplained UFO phenomena and extraterrestrial life. He tackles the shift from UFOs to UAPs and the science behind investigating sightings. Spergel emphasizes the necessity for reliable data collection and public engagement, suggesting innovative use of smartphones for citizen science. The conversation dives into dark matter, cosmic mysteries, and the legacy of Nancy Grace Roman, highlighting how public support is crucial for astronomical advancements.

Join Batya Friedman, a Professor at the University of Washington and co-founder of the Value Sensitive Design Lab, alongside seasoned AI researcher Steve Omohundro, as they dive into the ethics of artificial intelligence. They discuss the crucial need for human values in tech development to avoid unregulated advancements. The conversation emphasizes integrating inclusive practices, the importance of accountability in AI governance, and the complexities of establishing universal ethical standards amidst cultural differences. A thought-provoking exploration with compelling insights!

Astrophysicist Charles Liu, a professor at CUNY and author of 'The Handy Quantum Physics Answer Book,' joins Neil deGrasse Tyson and Chuck Nice to explore the futuristic themes of Star Trek. They discuss whether warp drives could one day be a reality and how quantum physics intersects with the show’s narratives. Liu highlights Star Trek's cultural impact on real scientific advancements while critiquing its portrayal of sci-fi technologies. The conversation humorously delves into the moral implications of sci-fi, prompting thoughts on our hopeful future shaped by creativity.

Bill Nye, the renowned science communicator and CEO of The Planetary Society, joins Neil deGrasse Tyson for a stimulating conversation on the wonders of space exploration. They ponder whether life can hitchhike across planets and the color of the Martian sky. The duo delves into the rich history of planetary missions, emphasizing Carl Sagan's influence and the critical need for advocacy in science. They also explore the role of imagery in missions, the search for extraterrestrial life, and the significance of engaging younger audiences in science and exploration.

Renowned author and food expert Anthony Bourdain shares his insights on the rich interplay between food, culture, and science. He recounts his unique experiences filming in places like Beirut and Antarctica, illustrating how food connects people across diverse settings. Bourdain humorously explores the challenges faced by wildlife researchers and the curious cravings of astronauts. The conversation also dives into how traditional cooking methods influence modern cuisine and the potential of lab-grown proteins in our food future.

Kip Thorne, a renowned theoretical physicist and Nobel Laureate, shares his fascinating insights on gravitational waves and his collaboration on the film Interstellar. He explores the science of wormholes and the tantalizing possibility of time travel, discussing quantum mechanics and the stability of hypothetical time machines. Thorne also delves into the mysteries of black holes, the ongoing challenges of unifying physics, and the creative interplay between science and cinema that has reshaped public perception of astrophysics.

Join cybersecurity expert Alex Cosoi, Chief Security Strategist at Bitdefender, as he dives into the fascinating world of probability and its implications for our digital lives. The conversation explores the staggering odds of human existence and the psychological quirks that influence our perception of risk. Cosoi shares insights on navigating cybersecurity, from managing online accounts to understanding the dark side of AI and deepfakes. With humor and depth, they unravel how these probabilities shape our actions and highlight the importance of robust digital security.