Cosmic Queries – Grabby Aliens with Charles Liu

About This Episode

What would happen if the speed of light were infinite? Neil deGrasse Tyson, joined by co-hosts Chuck Nice, Gary O’Reilly, and astrophysicist Charles Liu, answers questions about quantum entanglement, qubits, higher dimensions, grabby aliens, and more!

Could quantum particles that look separate in 3D actually be connected in higher-dimensional space? Why do particles pop in and out of existence, and how do theories like string theory try to explain it? Is there a hidden force behind entanglement? We break down what entanglement is, Occam’s Razor, and whether the universe could be a single particle.

Could quantum mechanics explain consciousness and free will? What exactly is a qubit made of, and how do quantum computers differ from classical ones? We explore information storage and what happens to privacy in a world of quantum computing. Then we shift to relativity: Does mass ever stop time the way speed does? We discuss whether there is a maximum mass in the universe. Plus, what would the universe look like if light traveled infinitely fast?

We discuss the “grabby aliens” theory; should humanity announce itself to the cosmos or stay quiet? We discuss the Three-Body Problem books and what it would be like to interact with grabby aliens. Neil offers his perspective, humor, and a promise: if grabby aliens show up, he’s kicking their butts (if they have them).

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