Unlock with PatreonAbout This Episode
What is dark matter? We know a lot about how it functions in the universe but we still don’t know a lot about what it is. On this episode of StarTalk All-Stars, host Natalia Reagan, comic co-host Andrea Jones-Rooy, and theoretical astrophysicist Katie Mack, a.k.a. Astro Katie, team up to answer fan-submitted Cosmic Queries on all things dark matter. Join us as we explore whether or not dark matter could be gravity spilling over through higher dimensions from a parallel universe. However, even if that were the case, you’ll learn why that wouldn’t necessarily solve the mystery of dark matter. Katie tells us why she thinks dark matter should be called “invisible matter.” Investigate why dark matter doesn’t interact with electromagnetism. Find out how we measure dark matter and Katie tells us her favorite method.
Learn more about black holes and ponder the idea that dark matter could be tiny black holes roaming the universe. Dive into the concept of spaghettification. You’ll hear the history of dark matter and when it was first discovered. Katie tells us a great analogy involving wind to help us understand the idea and function of dark matter. You might even be surprisde to find out how dark matter passes through us every day. Get more details on the LIGO experiment, and about the “sound” of a black hole.
Katie tells us the similarities and differences between dark matter and The Force from Star Wars, and we also examine the difference between dark matter and dark energy. Katie makes sure we understand the technicalities of the “Big Bang.” We also explore the over-accreditation of dark matter in science anomalies, and Katie explains the technological advancements being made to discover dark matter. All that, plus, you’ll learn more about axion detectors, and Natalia leads Katie in a game of Who, What, When and Where!
NOTE: All-Access subscribers can watch or listen to this entire episode commercial-free here: Dark Matter, with Natalia Reagan and Astro Katie.
Become a Patron