Listening to the Universe with Kimberly Arcand

About This Episode

What does a black hole sound like? Neil deGrasse Tyson & Chuck Nice explore the sounds of the universe using JWST and Chandra X-Ray Observatory data with astrophysicist and data sonification expert Kimberly Arcand, Live at Guild Hall. 

Ever wondered how we can extract sound from space? Kim explains how telescopes see in wavelengths beyond visible light as we explore the electromagnetic spectrum. Learn how we turn space data into sound and how this process allows us to experience the universe in new ways, from supernovae remnants to star-forming nebulae.

Discover the universe’s high-energy phenomena, like black holes and neutron stars, and how the Chandra X-ray Observatory helps astronomers detect these powerful forces. How did Chandra’s technology contribute to advances in fields like medical imaging and shark population monitoring? You’ll also hear clips of real data sonification, from exploding stars to gas clouds, as we explore how sound provides a new dimension to understanding space. Plus, discover the incredible story of Wanda Díaz-Merced, a blind astronomer who pioneered the use of sonification to study visual data.

As we continue to push the boundaries of space exploration, Kim shares insights on future missions, such as NASA’s upcoming Lynx X-ray telescope. With Chandra celebrating 25 years, we explore how this technological marvel is still revealing the mysteries of the cosmos—and what might come next.

Thanks to our Patrons Deb, Linda Gibson, Dominic Hamken, JTsolept, Eric Sharakan, Rick Wallingford, Douglas Waltz, RT, Cristina, Lorraine Wright, Paul Deis, Diane Lapick, Dr. Staci Gruber, James Dorrough, Edward Bornman, GLENNA F MONTGOMERY, and David Martin for supporting us this week.

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