
Daniel and Kelly’s Extraordinary Universe
Scientists Daniel and Kelly cannot stop talking about our amazing, wonderful, weird Universe! Each episode is a fun, easy-to-understand, and in-depth explanation of topics in science, from particles to black holes to moon colonies to ecosystems to parasites and everything else in the Universe!
Latest episodes

Aug 29, 2024 • 37min
Classic Episode - Is the Universe Random?
Dive into the captivating debate of randomness versus order in the universe. Explore philosophical and scientific theories that question if our universe is governed by chaos or predictability. Uncover how quantum mechanics challenges traditional views of determinism. Discover the surprising relationship between randomness and free will, and the implications for technology and space exploration. With relatable examples from dice rolls to weather patterns, this discussion invites a fresh perspective on the nature of reality itself.

Aug 27, 2024 • 51min
Could quantum clocks detect dark matter?
Discover how quantum clocks might revolutionize our search for dark matter, blending advanced timekeeping with cosmic mysteries. Engage in whimsical discussions about the elusive nature of dark matter and its impact on galaxies. Explore innovative detection methods while unraveling the relationship between dark matter and gravity. Enjoy a humorous take on quantum physics, as experts ponder 'Quantum Nanomatter' and dream of future explorations through space. This journey navigates profound questions wrapped in witty banter.

Aug 22, 2024 • 36min
Classic Episode - Is Light a Particle or a Wave?
What is light made of? This intriguing discussion dives into the classic debate over whether light is a particle, a wave, or both. Using relatable analogies, the hosts break down complex concepts and highlight the famous double-slit experiment. Historical perspectives from figures like Newton are woven in, showcasing the evolution of our understanding of light. The conversation also challenges misconceptions about light's instantaneous travel and emphasizes the implications of quantum mechanics on our grasp of reality.

Aug 20, 2024 • 46min
Listener Questions goes bananas!
Dive into the delightful debate on banana ripeness, from green to mushy, exploring personal preferences in a fun way. Laugh along as hosts discuss the whimsical pairing of bananas and chocolate while unraveling the science of flavor. Then, shift gears to banana radiation and atomic decay, where quantum processes collide with everyday food. Finally, journey into the cosmos as they tackle black holes, gravity, and the mysterious dynamics of accretion disks, all while keeping the tone light and engaging!

Aug 15, 2024 • 50min
What was the brightest explosion ever seen?
Dive into the breathtaking world of astronomical explosions! Discover the record-setting gamma-ray burst—the brightest explosion ever observed. Delve into the mysteries of quasars and blazars, their role in the early universe, and the challenges they pose to astronomers. Explore how these cosmic phenomena illuminate our understanding of black holes and energy scales. With a mix of humor and excitement, the discussion uncovers the enigmatic nature of brightness in the cosmos and the implications for our perception of the universe!

Aug 13, 2024 • 58min
What's the fastest event ever measured?
Daniel, a co-host exploring time and speed concepts, teams up with Jorge, who explains time measurement sciences. They dive into the fastest recorded events in the universe and ponder the fascinating intersection of speed, time, and human perception. With humor, they tackle paradoxes in time, especially through the lens of parenting. The conversation also touches on advancements in photography to capture rapid events and the implications for particle physics. It's a delightful blend of science and playful banter that challenges our understanding of the universe.

Aug 8, 2024 • 1h 10min
The science fiction Universe of "Dark Matter"
The guest, a screenwriter and scientific advisor for the multi-verse show 'Dark Matter,' shares insights on weaving science into storytelling. They discuss the humorous notion of what aliens might enjoy as entertainment across the multiverse. Delving into themes like personal choices and identity, they explore quantum theories through creative narratives. The conversation highlights the balance between scientific accuracy and captivating storytelling in sci-fi, showcasing how fictional tales can spark real scientific inquiry.

Aug 6, 2024 • 1h 7min
What is the Physics of life?
Sara Imari Walker, an author delving into life and extraterrestrial possibilities, joins the conversation to unravel the mysteries of life's origins. The dialogue explores vital connections between physics and biology, suggesting that traditional methods might not grasp life's complexity. They tackle the philosophical implications of defining life, while blending humor into the challenges of understanding existence. With a gaze toward potential alien life, the discussion elevates the conversation around assembly theory and the interplay of evolution in defining what it means to be alive.

Aug 1, 2024 • 54min
What is an impossible color?
Delve into the whimsical world of color perception, exploring how our understanding of colors intertwines art and science. Discover the bizarre concept of 'impossible colors' that lie beyond human sight and how creatures like the mantis shrimp perceive a vibrant spectrum we can't imagine. Uncover the biological mechanics behind our vision, including the fascinating roles of rod and cone cells. Join a humorous journey that challenges the very nature of reality and the limitations of our visual experience.

Jul 30, 2024 • 1h 15min
How to think like a physicist?
Curiosity and creativity are essential for anyone looking to adopt a scientific mindset. The discussion humorously contrasts the unique thought processes of physicists with those of engineers. Listeners learn about the value of scientific modeling and the complexities of measuring uncertainty in experimental physics. The guests share insights on how to make physics accessible to the public and explore the transition of physicists into diverse careers outside academia. This exploration invites reflection on integrating a physicist's mindset into everyday problem-solving.