Cosmic Queries – The Atlas of Peculiar Galaxies with Charles Liu

About This Episode

How can we use AI to explore the universe? Neil deGrasse Tyson and co-hosts Chuck Nice and Gary O’Reilly answer grab-bag questions about simulations, black holes, warp drive and more with astrophysicist and “Geek-in Chief ” Charles Liu.

What does the shift towards machine learning mean for exploring the universe? Learn about Halton Arp’s Atlas of Peculiar Galaxies, artificial intelligence, and some of what the JWST is looking at. What happens during a galaxy collision? We discuss the idea of a runaway black hole and the role of gas in galactic collisions.

Is there any evidence we are NOT in a simulation? We explore glitches in the matrix, miracles, paranormal activity, and our human biases. Why do we want to find a glitch? If we live in a simulation, does it matter? Neil and Charles debate whether a computer would be able to generate or recreate love. Is behaving like you’re in love the same as feeling it?

What is our universe expanding into? Find out about the location of the center of the universe and how it expands into multiple dimensions. If Earth’s magnetic field is generated from a molten metal core, how do gas giants have a magnetic field? Learn about hydrogen as a metal and the center of Jupiter. Finally, what’s the biggest obstacle holding us back from inventing warp drive?

Thanks to our Patrons Heike Stoll, Mugglewatcher, Chip Gallo, Alexander Rauschenbach, Samuel Joseph, and Capt. James Riley for supporting us this week.

NOTE: StarTalk+ Patrons can watch or listen to this entire episode commercial-free.

About the prints that flank Neil in this video:
“Black Swan” & “White Swan” limited edition serigraph prints by Coast Salish artist Jane Kwatleematt Marston. For more information about this artist and her work, visit Inuit Gallery of Vancouver.