Why This Universe?

Delving into ancient Greek astronomy, the podcast discusses Thales of Miletus and Pythagoras' unconventional theories on the universe. It explores Plato's perfect forms and Aristotle's cosmological model. The role of scientific models, evolution of astronomy, and the philosophical divisions among ancient Greek astronomers are also highlighted.

Hear how a recent discovery of the motions of galaxies is changing how cosmologists are thinking about our universe.For ad free episodes and other exclusives, join us for just $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverseOur merch is available here: https://www.shalmawegsman.com/why-this-universeSupport the show

The podcast explores NanoGRAV's groundbreaking discovery of gravitational waves using pulsars, delves into the rarity and significance of gravitational waves from supermassive black hole mergers, discusses the unique nature of gravitational waves generated by these mergers, explores the utilization of pulsar timing arrays by NanoGRAV, and speculates on future breakthroughs in gravitational wave science including detecting supermassive black hole binary systems and the true nature of dark matter.

What's it like bringing science to the most general public audiences? How do you distill complex results into short news-worthy articles without getting lost in clickbait? Today we hear the perspective of New York Times science journalist Katrina Miller.For ad free episodes and other exclusives, join us for just $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverseOur merch is available here: https://www.shalmawegsman.com/why-this-universeSupport the show

Quantum computing makes big promises, but how does it work? What is the real state of quantum computing today? Special guest Henry Lamm answers our questions.Our new merch is available here: https://www.shalmawegsman.com/why-this-universeFor ask-us-anything segments and other exclusives, join us for just $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverseSupport the show

Delving into the question of reality versus simulation, this podcast explores the philosophical and scientific aspects of living in a simulated universe. Topics include consciousness, machine consciousness, quantum computing, and the likelihood of our reality being a simulation.

Physicists Daniel Baxter and Alexandra Rahlin discuss their experiences collecting data in extreme locations, such as deep underground in a mining facility and from the South Pole. They explore topics like working with dark matter, the challenges of conducting experiments in remote locations, the use of duct tape and zip ties for scientific purposes, and the psychological challenges of living in isolation without sunlight. They also reflect on the awe-inspiring nature of studying the universe in extreme locations.

Explores the geometry of space and its relation to Einstein's theory of general relativity. Delves into the concept of Euclidean and non-Euclidean space, highlighting their differences. Discusses non-Euclidean geometry and its connection to physics, including how it relates to Einstein's theory of relativity. Explores Einstein's theory of general relativity and how it revolutionized our understanding of gravity. Explores the concept of a finite universe and Einstein's solution.

Historian Aviva Rothman discusses the Copernican Revolution and its impact on society. Topics include the transition from Earth-centered to sun-centered cosmos, Tiko's myths and Kepler's beliefs, Kepler's geometrical universe, parallels between Copernican and Darwinian Revolutions, lessons from the history of science, Aviva Rothman's book, merchandise, and support options.

Dan moderates a lively discussion on extraterrestrial life at the Chicago Humanities Festival.Our new merch is available here: https://www.shalmawegsman.com/why-this-universeFor ask-us-anything segments and other exclusives, join us for just $3 a month on Patreon: https://patreon.com/whythisuniverseSupport the show