A Collection of Tiny Universes

Whenever we get to watch things through the microscope together, it’s like we’re transported to another world—or maybe another universe, or dimension. Time and space feel off somehow, with sights that are slower and faster and nearer and farther all at once.

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Music by Andrew Huang:

Journey to the Microcosmos is a Complexly production.

[Bwerna]

James, if you somehow manage to find this comment, thank you. Your footage and this channel have inspired me to become a microbiologist.

I loved anything biology as a kid, but especially microbiology and biochemistry. I ran up to my mom one day, ecstatic I finally figured out what I'd like to dedicate my life to, but she talked me out of the entire field because it "won't make any money." Turns out, neither does dropping out of college into a depressive slump, and I've been putting off going back because I don't want to be a computer scientist. I've been stuffing that reality down for years, scared that changing course would be a mistake, but my "course" now is lost and stuck. When this channel began uploading, I began looking at every puddle and patch of moss like they were full of stars again. I rehearse what I've learned from these videos in the shower or on my commute, and to everyone who catches me staring (at a pool of murky, stagnant water, for instance).

A few weeks ago I noticed I have back, fully, a sense of curiosity, wonder, and optimism. A lot has happened that's made it possible, but the joy of learning about the world returned with Journey to the Microcosmos. The whole course of my life has changed in a way I'm looking forward to in large part because of your footage and those countless murky jars.

Thank you, James. I'm going to miss this channel, but I'll be happy to carry it with me for a lifetime.

[aandrus]

Dating a guy who takes along tubes in case of collection opportunities definitely sounds like a fascinating date!

[nicolerogowski]

I'm more interested in the "dump" bucket! The competition in there must have created some real interesting adaptations if he's been using it for years!

[benjaminmiller]

This channel began during my freshman year of college. I am now starting the first year of my PhD and I am so grateful to have had this show to wind down with over the years. I will be very sad when it is over. Your dedications to provide free, quality, and niche education for the general public is amazing.

[puzzleee]

I keep thinking each episode is the last - thanks for coming back from the dead :)

[HeiBao]

In the brewing industry where you have yeast emitting CO2, they use a gas trap on the cork (in lieu of a lid) that lets the gas pressure escape up through a water valve without letting air back in. All the random containers would drive me nuts. I'd standardize my containers and label them.

[tlange]

Thank you for showing the samples on the other side of the microscope!

[wildrattygirl]

James the jar collector, James and the giant jars!!

[gloomymoss]

It makes me so happy seeing others have jar collections. I love discovering more people who are like myself, makes me feel less alone in my obsession.

[Wyattinous]

0:49 didn’t expect such a banger on Microcosmos. Whoever’s the DJ for JttM, keep them on the team 🎧🎛️🎚️

[yennyku]

I am gonna miss you guys when you stop making vids :(

[ClimateScepticSceptic-ubrg]

The commentaries are almost as good as the videos themselves. Pure poetry.

[justmeva]

I am so glad that you guys are back. I like others really appreciate your videos.

[KarenneSnow]

I love this channel. Thank you Patreons! Wish I could join you.

[areallyshortbrontothere]

I am going to evapotate when the last episode drops

[dontwanadisplaynameonutube]

2:31 dude what is that thing sucking in and filter feeding ??!!
Thats crazy awesome!!!

[itsdonaldo]

If I got a sample of that stuff in my eye, every floaty would be terrifying.

[roku]

Wine airlock valves will help with gassy jars

[transparentmastering]

This has been one of my favourite episodes.

[Dying-chambers]

Whenever I watch this channel.
One thing comes to my mind...
*"Encounter of the Heavenly Space Ceremony ~ Space Surveillance" fades in*
(Y'all listen to it, it's amazing)