StarTalk Podcast: Cosmic Queries – Cosmic Cauldron, with Neil deGrasse Tyson and Chuck Nice

On this episode of StarTalk Radio, Neil deGrasse Tyson and comic co-host Chuck Nice are back together to answer a cosmic cauldron of Cosmic Queries. From dark matter, to 2001: A Space Odyssey, to the size of the universe, we are answering as many fan-submitted questions as we can.

To start, we investigate whether there’s any hypotheses that connect dark matter and black holes. We dive into science fiction as Neil and Chuck discuss their favorite depictions of aliens in film and television. We explore the lack of aliens in 2001: A Space Odyssey and Contact, why Neil’s favorite movie alien is The Blob, and why Chuck loves Alien. And, Neil and Chuck debate what space-themed tattoo they would get if they ever got one.

Discover more about the possibility of a multiverse. We explore the “levels” of a multiverse. Then, we ponder if the universe is finite or infinite. Neil explains why the mash-up of quantum physics and general relativity can create exciting possibilities. You’ll learn about the influence space travel has on age. We also ponder if time travelers are hiding among us. Find out who Neil would want to meet if he could time travel. Then, we dive into the logistics of time travel and “causal loops.”

You’ll hear about the mechanisms at work that help assist with Earth’s gravity. Then we ask, “Does light ever stop moving?” Neil tells us how we can use high-speed cameras to see light interact with a medium. Lastly, we discuss what technology an advanced alien civilization might have at their will. All that, plus, Neil and Chuck share their thoughts on how you’d be received if you traveled back in time and showed the people of the past your smartphone.

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About StarTalk:
Science meets pop culture on StarTalk! Astrophysicist & Hayden Planetarium director Neil deGrasse Tyson, his comic co-hosts, guest celebrities & scientists discuss astronomy, physics, and everything else about life in the universe. Keep Looking Up!

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[francoiswright]

Chuck is the perfect example of how someone can become smarter by speaking with smart people. I've been very impressed with the last year compared to previous years.

[ASQDGAMING]

The one thing I always enjoy about these Cosmic queries episodes is that at some point my mind gets absolutely blown every single time. I will stop and contemplate everything imaginable for a few minutes when this happens. This is the only place that has ever happened

[Jager-ervc]

Chuck seriously CRACKS me up! Neil’s science and Chucks what a fantastic show!

[RandyLaheySunnyvale]

I really like Chuck, much more so than the other one off cohosts that sometimes get tapped to help read questions. He is funny, intelligent, and adds value to conversations.

[keppela]

I love how Chuck listens to the same answers over and over again but pretends it's the first time he's heard them :)

[kaplanb]

I am amazed about everything you do, I am a aspiring astrophysicist at the tender age of 14 and am glad to be enlightened every time I listen to the show.

[williamoverton]

I love that quote of Einstein, " two things are infinite the universe and the stupidity of mankind...and I'm not sure about the universe."

[Octpus]

You guys have to watch "Dark" on Netflix. I'd love to hear your take on the time travel paradoxes throughout the show

[fahdelarby]

I am from in Egypt but l study English Because l am want understand your conversation l speak Arabic
😂😂

[bigcity]

Thanks Neil and Chuck; you're on the forefront of helping us stay sane.

[Kongodiantotela]

Chuck is smart and witty, yet many people don't see it.

[karenbroberts]

I don’t know what I enjoy more, your teachings or the banter between the two of you.

[rashadd]

Chuck is the perfect co-host. Funny and ask great questions to challenge Neil's thinking

[Robert_McGarry_Poems]

Neil you are an amazing person. Thank you for being you.

[EzFlyers]

Chuck is an amazing partner for neil. He's hilarious and he plays a sounding board when he needs to be, he plays dumb when he needs to and he asks questions a lot of people have

[Truepk]

Thanks for putting this on Spotify. It allows my days as a delivery driver to be more intellectual.

[helsiclife]

I love Chuck's energy! He always so pumped out to learn!

[angielott]

I have had the WORST day. No real reason, just kind of grumpy and on edge. I’ve been a mess all day.... so THANK YOU for giving me something bigger than myself to focus on and distract me right now. 🧡 truly. This came at a great time. My thinking was spiraling down bad the last few hours. Seeing the light though!

[Blue_rd]

I love these pod casts!
Try to have a beer every time Neil says ‘sooo’ 😜
Great stuff, guys.👍👍

[itoncemighthave]

Chuck be killing it with the titles off the top.